Bridging Cultures - A Ghanaian' Beautiful Encounter with China
ABSTRACT
This captivating narrative follows a young African who sets out on a quest to explore a dragon land filled with vast opportunities. However, she soon discovers that her old leather boots unexpectedly become the main focus of her Journey in China. These boots accompany her through various landscapes, resembling the climate of Africa, from towering mountains to freezing areas. While she enjoys the mix of ancient towns and modern technology, she feels a sense of blues when it is time to eat, missing the distinct flavors of African cuisine like jollof rice and fufu. Despite this culinary challenge, she continues to explore and appreciate the rich tapestry of Chinese festivals and cuisines while yearning for the tribal festivals of her homeland. Throughout her adventures, she realizes that her unique African leather boots have silently taken on the role of the main character in her story in China.
INTRODUCTION
I am Abigail Quarshie, a student from Ghana, currently in my second year at the Shanghai National Accounting Institute (SNAI). I want to use this opportunity to share my beautiful encounter with the People's Republic of China. When I first entered China, I knew nothing about the Chinese language except "ni hao." I arrived in Shanghai on November 1, 2022, during the strict COVID-19 restrictions. After being quarantined for 14 days in two different hotels, she finally got to explore her new surroundings. I was amazed by the city's architecture and was initially unfamiliar with the weather, food, and culture. However, I quickly adjusted, fell in love with my campus environment and Chinese culture, and gradually adjusted to the weather and language. I now enjoy the local cuisine, such as dumplings, noodles, and stir-fried vegetables, "dou hen haochi." However, one aspect of Chinese culture that intrigued and challenged me was dining with chopsticks. As someone who used to eat with my hands, I found it to be a delightful and bemusing culinary adventure, a reminder of the rich diversity of customs and traditions worldwide.
In addition to the fascinating Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), another aspect of China that captivated me was its thriving e-commerce and digital financial system. It amazed me how seamlessly one could navigate through daily life without needing physical cash, as long as they had a mobile phone. With just a few taps on their smartphones, the people of China could effortlessly take the subway, board a public bus, hail a taxi, and even purchase food and other commodities. The convenience extended beyond transportation and necessities - they could use their mobile phones to book high-speed trains, flights, hotels, and reserve tables at restaurants.
The prevalence of mobile payment platforms, such as WeChat Pay and Alipay, made these transactions swift and secure. It was awe-inspiring to witness how deeply ingrained this digital financial system had become in Chinese society, transforming how people conducted their daily lives. No longer bound by physical wallets or the need for loose change, people had embraced the power of their mobile phones, which had become an essential tool for navigating and experiencing the numerous conveniences of modern life in this vast and dynamic country.
EXPERIENCE IN CHINESE LANGUAGE STUDIES
Learning Chinese has been an incredible journey that has expanded my language repertoire and deepened my appreciation for China's rich culture and history. From the moment I embarked on this endeavor, I was captivated by the beauty and complexity of the Chinese language. The tones, characters, and nuances of expression fascinated me. It was like discovering a whole new world of communication. The challenges I faced in grasping the tones and characters fueled my determination to overcome them.
Moreover, in today's globalized world, possessing soft skills can put one at a competitive advantage, and studying Chinese is a necessary soft skill when looking at the direction of the world's global economy. China's influence on the global stage is undeniable, and being able to communicate in Mandarin has opened up new opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
China's BRI aims to boost trade and investment by improving infrastructure and promoting cultural exchanges along the ancient Silk Road. This year marks a decade since its initiation, and the BRI has contributed to global economic transformation. As a developing economy, China shares its success through policies and initiatives, emphasizing the importance of cooperation for mutual prosperity. This philosophy inspires me to believe that sharing success leads to further success, creating a win-win situation for all parties involved.
As a result, I volunteered to teach colleagues the little Chinese language I had learned by forming a Chinese language club. Also, I studied Chinese with friends during vacation. For character identification, I had my character writing book specially designated to practice writing. I record Chinese words on my phone with the right tones in pronunciation as each tone distinguishes a word; then, I replay and practice writing with friends later. Further, I often listen to Chinese radio Chinese songs and watch Chinese movies, though it was difficult to understand.
ENCOUNTERS OUTSIDE CAMPUS
In the heart of China, just beyond the bustling city of Shanghai, the Journey led me to the hallowed grounds of the Yue Fei temple in Hangzhou. This pilgrimage evoked memories of the revered heroes of Africa in my homeland. As I wandered through the temple's ancient halls, I stumbled upon a revelation that would forever alter my perception of Chinese history.
Yue Fei, the embodiment of honor and valor, had given his all for a cause he believed. As I stood before his original remains, I could not help but draw parallels between his unwavering dedication and the heroes who had risen from the heart of Africa. The indomitable spirits of figures like Nelson Mandela, Kwame Nkrumah, and Wangari Maathai reverberated in my thoughts.
It was within these sacred walls that I discovered a profound distinction. While the other tombs dedicated to Yue Fei contained his weaponry and garments, the Hangzhou temple cradled the most treasured relic–this valiant hero's original remains. In this sacred sanctuary lay the very essence of China's heroes.
My senses were overwhelmed as I absorbed the awe-inspiring ambiance of the temple. The air was thick with a sense of reverence that transcended language and culture. The stories of heroism and sacrifice whispered in the silent breeze, reminding me of the enduring spirit that unites nations across the globe.
As I ventured further into my exploration of China, I encountered a juxtaposition of experiences that astonished and delighted me. Yiwu and Guangzhou, cities known for hosting the largest intentional market I had ever seen, beckoned to me. The bustling streets, buildings, or districts, laden with an array of goods, bore an uncanny resemblance to the vibrant chaos of Makola, the largest market in Accra, Ghana.
However, what truly astonished me were the price tags. They seemed almost too good to be accurate, as if I had stumbled into a realm of perpetual discounts and unbeatable deals. The marketplace, a microcosm of China's economic dynamism, was a testament to the country's incredible capacity for both production and consumption.
Amidst the endless discoveries, places emerged that transported me through space and time. The ancient Zhouzhuang water town in Kunshan is known for its picturesque canals and charming architecture. It evokes similarities to Nzulezu, a hidden water town in the heart of Ghana. Both places spoke to the intrinsic connection between humanity and water, a universal thread that binds cultures and nations worldwide.
In the realm of the extraordinary, I found myself gazing upon the Beigu Mountains of Zhenjiang, a city in China's Jiangsu province, an otherworldly sight that felt like I had stepped into the very foothills of heaven. These mountains pierced the heavens with an effortless grace, serving as a testament to the unparalleled beauty and grandeur that nature bestows upon China.
In addition, it was amazing being part of a field trip to the Wufangzhai industrial zone in Jiaxing city, where I first tasted Zongzi (Rice red beans filled Dumplings). The company had just celebrated its 100 years of operation. At the Wufangzhai headquarters, This emphasized that perseverance, hard work, and dedication are good virtues. I learned about how the owner started the business as a street vendor, and the tremendous progress 100 years down the line is fantastic. My take home that day was to persist in pursuing my dreams and push on regardless, in good or challenging times. I'm sure the owner had difficulty selling on the streets as a vendor, yet his generational thinking is this great company that would last for ages.
I also visited the west lake in Hangzhou and took a boat ride on the lake. The experience was excellent. Other places were the Pan-China Certified Public Accountants Co. Ltd., China National Tea Museum, and the 12366 Shanghai Taxpayer Service Centre.
MY STORY OF ACHIEVEMENT
In October 2023, I was honored with the Silk Road Chinese Learning Award, a testament to my Journey and experiences in China. As new students embark on this exciting chapter, I encourage them to tighten their belts, drawing inspiration from the joy they felt upon receiving their scholarship letters. Each semester has both academic and non-academic activities, and although I faced personal challenges and moments of doubt, I discovered the resilience within me to overcome and grow stronger.
What began as a personal quest for growth became an odyssey of profound discovery. I stood in China, a land brimming with marvels and complexities, and realized I had acquired a unique narrative to share with the world. During moments of introspection, I challenged myself to take the Hanyu Kaoshi, popularly known as HSK. I did not just aim for level 1 or 2; I set my sights on level 3. It was not an easy task, and doubts began to creep in. I questioned why I had taken on this challenge amid my challenges yet refused to give up. I prepared diligently to pass the exam and prove to myself that I could achieve something positive amidst adverse circumstances.
Little did I know that SNAI would recognize my success in passing the exam. I had initially embarked on this Journey for personal growth and to overcome sorrow. However, here I stand today with a success story to share - a story I call "the positive reward out of negative circumstances."
I encourage everyone to embark on their Journey, as it is through these experiences that we truly grow as individuals and foster understanding between different cultures. Learning a new language expands our linguistic abilities and broadens our horizons, allowing us to connect with people from different backgrounds and engage in meaningful cross-cultural exchanges.
I stand here today as a testament to the power of perseverance and the rewards of stepping outside our comfort zones. I have learned that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength within ourselves to overcome challenges and achieve our goals. My Chinese learning journey has taught me valuable language skills and shaped me into a more resilient and culturally aware individual.
Reflecting on my experiences, I am grateful for the support and guidance I have received. My teachers, Jin Laoshi and Wu Laoshi have been instrumental in my success. Their dedication to creating a supportive learning environment has nurtured my passion for Chinese and pushed me to reach new heights.
Fellow learners, I encourage you to embrace the beauty of learning and exploring new languages as it offers a unique perspective and a gateway to a different world. Let us not fear the challenges ahead but rather embrace them as opportunities for growth and personal development.
MOFCOM SCHOLARSHIP BENEFIT
Significantly, the Master of Professional Accounting degree program will broaden our views and add an immeasurable wealth of knowledge in different fields of work, assisting all beneficiaries to contribute to their respective country's development. Again, I firmly believe that this program will develop my problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills in an era of diverse economic and financial challenges.
Also, MOFCOM beneficiaries will become more professional, measuring up to international standards and capable of giving back to our various countries. The program will undoubtedly open possibilities of potential career paths for me to venture into the future, beaming with confidence. As of now, I am already enthused about teaching the Chinese language. I will try to create a physical or virtual avenue to teach the Chinese language.
Colleagues, let us make the most of this opportunity and the challenges head-on. Let us open ourselves to transformation growth for our benefit, families, and countries. "A nation is managed with policies; we are the future; we are the next generational policymakers, and we will be able to have someday a workable solution to this recurring statement or question: WHY IS AFRICA SO RICH WITH NATURAL RESOURCES YET POOR"? At least, for now, the BRI is giving Africa hope for tomorrow. This question has become a generational song lingering in the hearts of most young African thinkers. We hope to sing joyfully someday when the baton of leadership is passed unto us to make policies and manage affairs correctly among the best solutions we may acquire under this program.
China, being a model, is a developing country, a center of world trade, and an innovative hub of the world. I believe that we can learn a lot, not only in the classroom but beyond. The program has allowed us to socialize and work with students and professionals from different countries and backgrounds, with whom we create lasting international connections or networks for beneficial and mutual relationships.
On behalf of my colleague students and the Government of Ghana, I express my profound gratitude to the Government of the People's Republic of China, MOFCOM, for opening their window of opportunities and educational facilities.
I pledge to utilize all available resources for optimum engagements to produce and enhance results for present and future benefits. I also pledge to be the best ambassadors who would give back to our respective countries the knowledge, experience, and expertise gained to fortify the existence and future relevance of the SNAI program.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for allowing me to share my Chinese learning experience and story. I hope my Journey will inspire others to embark on their own Chinese language adventure and discover the joy and enrichment that comes with connecting with different cultures. May we continue to celebrate diversity, foster understanding, and build bridges of communication in our globalized world. Let us share our successes, and we will become more successful like China.
Overall, "Bridging Cultures - A Ghanaian's Beautiful Encounter Perspective with China" showcases the transformative power of cross-cultural experiences, highlighting the potential for connection, understanding, and growth arising when individuals from different backgrounds come together. This narrative reminds us of the richness and beauty of embracing diversity, fostering mutual respect, and building bridges that unite us across continents.
