Language has the power to connect people, cultures, and ideas. Jian and Soraya (Grade 4), Jonah (MYP 4), and Mr. Rafa Zamorano Verdu, MYP Humanities Teacher, participated in the East China Preliminary Round of the 2026 Chinese Bridge Global Chinese Conference for Foreigners Storytelling Competition in Jinan. 

Competing against more than 140 participants from 33 countries, they delivered outstanding performances, earning two direct advancement spots to the next round, an Outstanding Style Award, and participation awards for all four contestants.

For our Lower School students, Soraya and Jian Park, preparation extended far beyond memorizing scripts. Working closely with Ms. Apple and their families, they refined their presentations, practiced their delivery, and carefully considered every detail, from visuals to costumes. Soraya once performed in a cultural drama themed on the Twenty-Four Parables of Filial Piety, playing the role of an empress. Through this immersive experience, she gained a genuine understanding of traditional Chinese virtues, making cultural learning go beyond mere book knowledge. Jian visited Qufu, the hometown of Confucius, and was deeply inspired by this land of sages. She compares Confucius to a bridge that connects the cultures of China and the Republic of Korea, linking the past and the present.

In Upper School, Jonah shared his personal journey of learning Chinese and navigating different cultures. His story highlighted how language can help build understanding, friendship, and belonging within an international community.

Mr. Rafael brought a unique perspective through a humorous and heartfelt reflection on becoming a new father. Comparing Chinese and Western parenting traditions, he explored how different cultural practices often reflect the same universal values of love, care, and family.  

What made all four presentations special was their authenticity. Rather than simply presenting facts, each contestant shared personal experiences and meaningful reflections, bringing Chinese language and culture to life through their own stories.

At QAIS, we believe language learning is about more than communication. It is about building connections, developing intercultural understanding, and discovering new perspectives. We are incredibly proud of all four contestants for representing our school with confidence, curiosity, and global-mindedness.  

Congratulations to Soraya, Jian Park, Jonah, and Mr. Rafael on their remarkable achievements. We look forward to cheering on Jonah and Mr. Rafael as they advance to the next stage of the competition in Shanghai.