By Abubakar Yunusa
Linda Ifeoma, a Nigerian, has emerged as the winner of the Chinese category at the 2024 Good Partners of China and Africa Chinese and English Singing Competition held in Abuja.
She clinched the grand prize of 500,000 Naira.
The competition, organized by the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria and the China Cultural Center in collaboration with sponsor China Harbour Engineering Company Nigeria Limited, culminated in its grand finale on November 23 at the Chinese Cultural Center in Abuja on Saturday.
Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the event, Linda expressed her excitement about her win, particularly as she competed in a category dominated by Chinese participants.
“Actually, when I was contacted by my HR to participate in this competition, I initially rejected the offer because the first time I entered a similar competition, I didn’t win,” she said.
“At that time, I was very discouraged. But when she asked me to try again, I thought, ‘Okay, let me give it another shot.’ Initially, I didn’t even expect to win the first round. So, I’m absolutely excited!”
Linda’s journey to the finals involved winning the first round of the competition held the previous week, followed by intensive practice leading up to her performance in the finale.
She performed a Chinese song, showcasing her fluency and passion for the language.
Linda, who studied Business Education at Nnamdi Azikiwe University and pursued Chinese as a side course, later received a Chinese government scholarship to study in Nanjing, China, where she earned a master’s degree in the language.
“When I was in school, I wanted to work in an embassy. I asked myself, ‘What do I need to achieve this goal?’ I realized I needed to learn a language other than my mother tongue,” she said, recounting her motivation to learn Chinese.
The singer also shared her aspirations in songwriting, describing this competition as a pivotal moment in her journey. “Personally, I write songs, and I think this is an opportunity for me to step out of my shell and showcase my talent,” she said.
In a message to Nigerians, Linda encouraged the study of the Chinese language, highlighting its potential to unlock opportunities in employment and cultural exchange. “The character aspect can be challenging, but with dedication, you’ll find it easier to learn,” she added.
Other winners of the competition were recognized in both English and Chinese categories.
English Category Winners:Third Prize (200,000 Naira): Contestants Chen Jun, Li Wei, and Qiu Liu Liu
Second Prize (300,000 Naira): Contestants Guan Xin and Wang Jia Yi
First Prize (500,000 Naira): Contestant Tan Jian
Chinese Category Winners:Third Prize (200,000 Naira): Contestants Yang Fan, Zhang Ji, and Deng Xiu Yuan.
Second Prize (300,000 Naira): Contestants Glory Livingston and Yang Xin.
The event underscored the strengthening ties between China and Nigeria through cultural exchange and mutual appreciation of music and language.
