Wuzhou Chorus, a Home Transcending Borders

This July, 25-year-old Ainura Kubenova from Kazakhstan graduated with a master’s degree in Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages at the International College of Southwest University. Her most cherished memories of studying in Chongqing are from her time with the International College Wuzhou Chorus (hereafter referred to as the Chorus). Let’s follow her story and embark on this journey of music that transcends borders.

Connecting with Chongqing through the “Chinese Bridge”

“Hello, everyone! I’m Ainura Kubenova, and my Chinese name is Liu Yueguang.” The young lady in front of the camera wears a stylish, cool outfit and beams a bright smile. Two years ago, it was through the “Chinese Bridge” competition that she first connected with Chongqing.

“At the time, I met a teacher from Southwest University, who often shared the beautiful scenery of Chongqing, making me long to visit this city,” says the young lady from Almaty, who feels especially close to the mountains and rivers of Chongqing. “Later, I was able to come to Chongqing to study, and the city became my second home. The evening breeze along the Jialing River, the glowing lights of Hongyadong Scenic Area, and the hot, spicy, and flavorful hotpot, all give me a true sense of home.”

Ainura Kubenova still remembers vividly that at the beginning of her graduate studies, Li Dan, head of the Chorus, went from classroom to classroom inviting international students to join the Chorus. “I was touched by the passion in Ms. Li’s eyes, and I soon realized that this truly is a warm and welcoming family,” says Ainura Kubenova.

As an important platform for international cultural exchange at Southwest University, the Chorus has welcomed over a thousand international students from more than 40 countries, including Italy, Singapore, Thailand, Viet Nam, Kazakhstan, and Nigeria, since its founding in 2015. Geng Jun, Deputy Secretary of the CPC Committee of  International College of Southwest University, explains that the name “Wuzhou” (meaning “Five Continents”) symbolizes the integration of diverse cultures. Through music, the university hopes to build bridges of friendship, promote exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, and spread the charm of Chinese culture to the wider world.

For Ainura Kubenova, every rehearsal of the Chorus is an exchange and integration of cultures, with music serving as her universal language that transcends borders. The Chorus rehearses every Friday afternoon, bringing together young people of diverse backgrounds. They discuss music and make friends in Chinese while singing Chinese songs together. Their voices carry the passion of African drumbeats, the elegance of European harmonies, and the melodiousness of Chinese folk songs. Classics such as My People, My Country, Jasmine Flower, and Shang Chun Shan (Climbing Mountains in Spring) are all staple pieces in the Chorus’ repertoire.

Building Bridges of Friendship Through Culture

In the Chorus, Ainura Kubenova and her peers have shone brightly on stage, leaving behind wonderful memories. Together, they have participated in major events such as the Opening Ceremony of the Chongqing International Friendship Cities Food Court 2024, Global Panda Partners, and “Fly with Chongqing: China-France Cultural Exchange Week.” “What made it most special was that the Chorus gave us the chance to showcase our own cultures. When I stepped onto the stage in traditional Kazakh attire and heard the audience applauding our performance, the feeling of connection across borders was truly exhilarating.” Ainura Kubenova recalled.

“I actually enjoy dancing more,” Ainura Kubenova said, “but my teacher encouraged me to try singing, which opened up new possibilities for me.” This personalized approach to nurturing talent is a hallmark of the International College of Southwest University. Ainura Kubenova also joined the Dance Association of Southwest University, taking part in various dance performances and inspiring everyone around her with her passionate dance movements.

Ainura Kubenova’s greatest wish after graduation is to continue her studies in Chongqing. “This city has given me so many precious memories, especially the friendships across nationalities in the Chorus. I am eager to live and work here, continuing to build bridges for international exchange through language and culture.”

Ainura Kubenova’s story is a small glimpse into the experiences of the thousands of Chorus members, and a vivid reflection of Southwest University’s commitment to international education.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Wuzhou Chorus. The university plans to hold a concert to foster a stronger sense of togetherness within the Chorus and enhance the influence of the International College, while continuing to implement the branding strategy of “Study at SWU, Study in Chongqing.” Geng Jun hopes that the Chorus will attract outstanding students from more countries, enrich its cultural and artistic diversity, and play a greater role in international cultural interactions. 

Through performances and exchanges, it can showcase the charm of Chinese culture and serve as a vibrant cultural emblem on the global stage.

Photo/International College of Southwest University

By Liu Dingrui/The World and Chongqing