Egyptian Student Hua Xiaowen of Shanghai Jiao Tong University Wins "Future Star" Title at the Fifth “Stories of China Retold in English Challenge”

On August 3, the grand showcase and awards ceremony for the 5th edition of the “Stories of China Retold in English Challenge” was broadcast as a special program on CETV-1's The Chinese Story Collection. The competition, which attracted 240,000 participants from both China and overseas, culminated in final performances by 90 outstanding contestants after rigorous selection through preliminary and advanced stages. Among the most impressive finalists was Hua Xiaowen, an Egyptian student from the School of Humanities at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Having advanced through the International Student Group to the advanced stage, she emerged among 922 competitors from 91 universities in 84 countries, securing the 30th place and a coveted spot in the grand showcase.

During the event, Hua Xiaowen delivered a compelling speech titled 《从中式到新中式》"From Traditional to Neo-Chinese Style", sharing her personal insights and experiences living in Shanghai. Through a technological lens, she highlighted the evolving yet deeply rooted cultural aesthetics of modern China. Her performance, which blended personal storytelling with thoughtful cultural reflection, captivated the audience and judges alike. In addition to her speech, Hua also performed a captivating dance performance with a humanoid robot—an artistic and technological collaboration that earned thunderous applause and a standing ovation. Her excellence throughout the event ultimately earned her the prestigious title of "Future Star", and she appeared in the competition’s official broadcast special.

The international student segment of the event drew extensive media attention. On August 4, People's Daily (Overseas Edition) reported on the event under the title 《外国留学生眼中的中国文化和汉语学习》"Foreign Students Share Their Love for Chinese Culture and Language", and released a related video titled《在故事中，让更多人了解中国的美好》 "Spreading China's Beauty Through Stories" on its official app. Hua’s mentor, Professor Hu Jianjun, was also interviewed to reflect on his role in guiding the students through the competition.

Written by: Hu Jianjun, Mo Xiaoling

Edited by: Kan Peilin

Photos: Organizing Committee of “Stories of China Retold in English Challenge”