The famous Jiangsu folk song, Moli Hua (Jasmine Flower), is performed at the beginning of the final of the speech contest in Nanjing on June 20. [Photo/WeChat account: tongleJS]

The final of the 2018 "Shared Joy in Jiangsu" Chinese Speech Contest for Foreigners was held at the Jiangsu Broadcasting Corporation in Nanjing, Jiangsu province on June 20.

Starting in late April, the event was popular among foreigners living and studying in Jiangsu. The three preliminary knockouts started at Jiangsu Normal University, Jiangnan University and Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics on May 22, May 31 and June 6, respectively.

After several rounds of selection, 13 contestants from 11 nations including the United States, Italy, Australia, Indonesia and Laos displayed their talents and affections for the Chinese language and advanced to the final.

Indonesian participant Huang Deni shares stories about colorful Chinese connections. The oiled paper umbrella she holds increases the impress of her speech. [Photo/WeChat account: tongleJS]

The final consisted of three sections – personal presentation, team work and short plays. With the theme of "Love for Jiangsu", the contestants shared stories about their colorful life in China.

Huang Deni, a young Indonesian woman, could give over 10 names of alleys in Yangzhou without a break. Holding an oiled paper umbrella, she looked and sounded just like a graceful Yangzhou girl.

The Australian contestant Max met his girlfriend, a lady from Belarus, during the 2017 "Shared Joy in Jiangsu" Foreigners Singing and Talent Competition. Their mutual love for Chinese language and culture brought them together.

After strong competition, Max from Australia and Guo Shengjie from Malaysia shared the first prizes. 

The "Shared Joy in Jiangsu" Chinese Speech Contest for Foreigners has been successfully held for six years. As a part of the "Shared Joy in Jiangsu" series of activities, which also features talent shows, music and cultural festivals, it plays an important role in promoting the communication, diversification and internationalization of culture in Jiangsu province.