Language is more than words—it’s a bridge between worlds. For Isidora Basanovic, the Chinese Language Program (CLP) at UBC became exactly that bridge. Isidora’s journey from language learner to representing Canada at the 2025 Chinese Bridge (汉语桥) Competition didn’t happen overnight—it grew out of years of curiosity, persistence, and immersion.
This spotlight focuses on Isidora’s path from early language study at UBC to standing under the bright lights of one of the world’s most prestigious Chinese-language competitions. Along the way, her immersive academic experiences, hands-on community involvement, and cross-cultural exchanges transformed language learning from an academic pursuit into a platform for connection and international recognition.
Isidora giving her winning speech at the 24th annual Chinese Bridge Competition Reception
Isidora’s journey in the Chinese Language Program began with a simple goal: to explore a language and culture that fascinated her. Through structured courses, guided practice sessions, such as OP, and engagement with the Chinese-speaking community—attending cultural events like tea tastings at Sun Yat Sen Garden and volunteering at the 2025 UBC Lunar New Year—she steadily strengthened her language skills while building the confidence and curiosity to pursue Mandarin further.
“Over time, I came to understand that language learning is a dynamic, living process that extends beyond words on a page; it truly encompasses active engagement, cultural exploration, and the development of one’s personal and intellectual growth.””
Isidora, along with two other Canadian students, had the honour of representing Canada in the 2025 Chinese Bridge Competition, an internationally renowned platform that brings together top Chinese language students from around the world. More than a language contest, Chinese Bridge serves as a cultural exchange forum, by testing participants’ linguistic fluency and cultural literacy. Through speeches and performances, the competition highlights the role of language as a bridge between societies. To better understand this journey, we asked Isidora to reflect on her experience.
Isidora along with the 24th Chinese Bridge Competition contestants in Beijing
What experiences helped you prepare for Chinese Bridge?
While Chinese Bridge may have seemed like one moment on stage, it was actually built on years of learning, practice, and growth. My time in UBC’s Chinese language program, guided by incredibly dedicated professors, gave me both the technical foundation and the confidence to speak and think critically in Chinese. Going abroad by pursuing exchange in Shanghai added another layer: it pushed me beyond the classroom and into real conversations and real cultural nuance. In many ways, Chinese Bridge was more about drawing on experiences that had already reshaped how I think, communicate, and connect across cultures.
Isidora excitingly posing in front of the Pearl Tower in the Bund during her exchange, Shanghai, 2024
What surprised you the most about the Chinese Bridge?
I didn’t expect to meet so many extraordinary individuals from such diverse backgrounds. At times, I thought that I might have been among the least interesting people in the room. Although we initially bonded over our shared passion for learning Chinese, our conversations quickly grew into deeper discussions about culture and global connection. Through those exchanges, I also learned about cultures and languages I hadn’t encountered before, which broadened my perspective far beyond the competition itself.
Isidora watching a show with her friends from Chinese Bridge in Fujian
What advice would you give to someone who wants to participate in the Chinese Bridge competition but feels nervous or unsure?
I’d tell anyone nervous about Chinese Bridge: don’t overthink it — the competition is less about perfection and more about curiosity. Show up with an open mind, a willingness to stumble through a few characters, and a sense of humor. You’ll be surprised how quickly the shared passion for Chinese and cultural exchange turns strangers into collaborators, and nerves into stories you’ll laugh about later. Think of it less as a test, and more as a passport to meet some of the most talented, interesting people you didn’t know existed.
In what ways has this experience influenced your future goals or career plans?
Participating in Chinese Bridge showed me that international connections aren’t just built in boardrooms, rather, they’re built one conversation, one cultural exchange, and sometimes one mispronounced character at a time. With a degree in International Relations and a minor in Chinese, the experience reinforced my goal of working at the crossroads of diplomacy, international trade, and cross-cultural communication—helping organizations, like ports and global businesses connect with partners and communities around the world.
Isidora presenting her speech at Chinese Bridge in Fuzhou
Isidora’s journey through the Chinese Language Program illustrates how dedication, curiosity, and engagement can transform language learning into a platform for personal and professional growth. Her experience serves as a testament to the transformative power of the CLP, showing that with passion, practice, and cultural immersion, students can not only achieve linguistic excellence but also develop the confidence and skills to thrive in an interconnected world.
Looking Ahead: Chinese Bridge Competition Submissions
For students inspired by Isidora’s journey, the Chinese Bridge (汉语桥) Competition is an incredible opportunity to challenge yourself, showcase your language skills, and connect with a global community of learners.
Excitingly, submissions for the upcoming competition will be opening soon! Whether you are confident in your Mandarin abilities or just starting to explore the language, this is a chance to apply your learning, gain valuable experience, and represent on an international stage.
Keep an eye out for announcements from the CLP—and start gearing up to turn your language learning into an adventure!
