Self-taught Kenyan Primary pupil named continental champion in premier Chinese language competition

Wanjiru Ethan Noah secured the continental title after participating in the prestigious international Chinese-language contest. With this victory, Ethan becomes one of five regional champions worldwide to advance to the global finale.

According to Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan, Ethan’s journey into learning Chinese began entirely without formal classroom instruction. 

Driven by curiosity, Ethan and his brother, Ebrahim Matthew, relied on online resources such as YouTube and Facebook to teach themselves the language.

Three years ago, the brothers took their first official step by sitting for the HSK Level 1 examination—the standardised international test for Chinese language proficiency—at the Confucius Institute at Kenyatta University.

Their initial performance caught the attention of local educators. Impressed by their progress and potential, teachers at the institute stepped in to provide structured learning materials and mentorship to support the brothers as they advanced through higher-level examinations.

Recognizing their dedication, educators eventually recommended the brothers for the "Chinese Bridge" competition and accompanied them to China for the finals.

During the competition, Ethan impressed the panel of judges by narrating the historical voyages of the 15th-century Chinese explorer Zheng He to the East African coast. 

His presentation highlighted the long-standing cultural connections between Kenya and China, securing his position as the top candidate representing Africa.

Ethan will now compete against the remaining regional champions in the final stage of the global event.