‘The world is one family’: Analouisa inspires with her speech on China

What began as an interest in the Chinese language and culture during her studies at Zuyd evolved into a special experience for fourth-year IC&T student Analouisa Gibbes. Driven by curiosity and enthusiasm, she delved deeper and deeper into Chinese, which ultimately led her, on her own initiative, to the Dutch finals of the 25th Chinese Bridge Chinese Proficiency Speech Competition.

During this competition, in which students from all over the Netherlands participated, Analouisa delivered a speech on the theme “One World, One Family.” In it, she emphasized that the world faces major challenges and that cooperation and mutual respect are particularly important.

With the words “一个微笑、一句问候、一次帮助，都可以改变人与人之间的感觉” (“A smile, a friendly greeting, or a helping hand can change the way people interact with one another”), she demonstrated how small gestures can make a big difference.

She also emphasized that the biggest problem of our time is not our differences, but the emphasis we place on them. That is precisely why she advocated for greater understanding of one another and for small gestures that can make a big difference.

With her authentic performance, her message of connection, and her passion for language and culture, Analouisa impressed both the audience and the jury. Her participation shows that learning a language is more than just words and grammar: it’s also about understanding other perspectives, connecting people, and daring to take on new challenges.

By taking on this challenge, Analouisa not only developed her language skills but also her self-confidence, intercultural awareness, and personal growth. An achievement to be proud of!