Maltese Teen Represents Malta in Prestigious Chinese Proficiency Competition
For 17-year-old Luca Naudi, this September was nothing short of unforgettable. After winning first place in the Chinese Bridge Secondary School Competition earlier this year, the St Aloysius College student earned the honour of representing both his school and Malta at the 18th Chinese Bridge International Competition in Beijing and Tianjin.
From 11th to 27th September, Luca travelled to China with his teacher, Ms. Xiaxiao Chai, joining 120 students from around the world, each of whom had won their local competitions. The programme was designed to immerse participants in Chinese language and culture while putting their skills to the test in an international contest.
Luca competed across several stages, which included a written exam, a prepared speech, and a talent performance. For his skill presentation, he sat at the piano to play “I’ll Make a Man Out of You” from Disney’s Mulan, charming audiences with a blend of music and cultural flair. Contestants were gradually narrowed from 120 to 30, then to 15, five, and finally to one overall winner.
Though Luca had studied Chinese for four years, he found himself competing alongside peers who had been immersed in the language for over a decade – a testament to the diverse levels of experience within the competition.
Beyond the contest, the journey was filled with rich cultural experiences. Luca walked along the Great Wall of China, explored the Forbidden City, shared a meal with a local family, and even met Malta’s Ambassador to Beijing, H.E. John Busuttil.
Reflecting on the trip, Luca described it as the experience of a lifetime – one that broadened his horizons and gave him memories to cherish forever. His story is a reminder of how stepping outside one’s comfort zone can lead to incredible opportunities and lasting personal growth.
Congratulations Luca!
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