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Eight students from Western Washington University demonstrated exceptional linguistic skills and cultural artistry at the 24th Chinese Proficiency Competition for World College Students (Washington State Preliminary), held on April 12 in Tacoma.

Affectionately known as the “Chinese Bridge Show,” the competition is the most prominent international contest for university-level Chinese language learners. Since its inception in 2002, it has served as a cornerstone event for deepening intercultural dialogue. This year’s Washington State preliminary round was co-organized by the Chinese Consulate General in San Francisco and the Confucius Institute of Washington State.

The event this year drew around 30 participants from colleges across the state, including the University of Washington, Evergreen State College, Pacific Lutheran University, Shoreline Community College, and Western Washington University. Contestants competed in three categories: a prepared speech in Chinese, a cultural Q&A, and a talent performance.

Western’s Lilly Hesari (upper left in photo) took home the top prize, excelling across all segments with eloquence, poise, and cultural sensitivity. Her championship win not only reflected personal dedication but also highlighted the university’s ongoing commitment to fostering global competence among its students. Ceylor Irwin (upper right in photo) and Daniel Phommathep (lower left in photo), both 100-level Chinese students, won the Most Creative Talent Award and Outstanding Participant Award, respectively. Olivia Hinton (lower right in photo), a sophomore, won Most Confident Speaker Award.

“This competition offers more than just a platform for language proficiency—it’s an invaluable space for building bridges of understanding between cultures,” said Julian Wu, faculty advisor and professor of Chinese at Western. “In an increasingly interconnected world, our students’ ability to communicate across linguistic and cultural boundaries is more vital than ever.”

By participating in events like the Chinese Bridge Show, students become ambassadors of mutual respect and shared learning. These experiences lay the groundwork for long-term international friendships and collaborations, cultivating a generation of globally minded citizens equipped to engage in meaningful bilateral dialogue.

“As we celebrate our students’ achievements, we also celebrate the power of language and culture to bring people together,” said Xiaomeng Li, faculty advisor and professor of Chinese at Western. “Events like this remind us that education is not only about acquiring skills, but also about nurturing empathy, perspective, and understanding across borders.”

The success of Western’s participants is a testament to the university’s holistic approach to language education — one that goes beyond grammar and vocabulary to embrace cultural fluency and global citizenship.