The 2023 FISU University World Cup Football, hosted in Jinjiang, Fujian province, saw fierce competition with 20 football teams from 16 different countries participating in 46 matches. To better serve this international tournament, a group of 70 translation volunteers were mobilized by the Youth League Committee of Huaqiao University (HQU) and College of Foreign Languages (CFL). Over the course of 20 days, these volunteers provided invaluable services including translation and interpretation for officials, football teams and venue personnel, as well as English broadcasting for the competitions.

In order to effectively cater to the translation requirements for this event, CFL meticulously selected volunteers with superior English proficiency from senior undergraduates and postgraduates. The college, in collaboration with the FISU, conducted comprehensive training sessions for these volunteers, covering areas such as English translation, diplomatic etiquette and traditional Chinese culture. This training significantly enhanced their professional skills and competence. Through the event, these volunteers served as a vital communication bridge, showcasing their comprehensive abilities and expertise to international attendees. Their passion and sense of responsibility as representatives of contemporary Chinese youth were clearly evident. Their commendable performance throughout the event garnered widespread positive feedback.

Song Zulin, a language volunteer for the tournament, shared her experience, “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to volunteer for such a large-scale event, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic. Serving as an interpreter for Paulo Ferreira, the Secretary-General of the FISU World Cup, I’ve realized the importance of applying English inpractical scenarios and promoting Chinese culture through the English language. Meanwhile, I’ve also encountered some unexpected cultural shocks due to regional differences, which added a surprising element to the experience.”

Xin Yuxiao, an interpreter for the Western Sydney University football team, expressed her deep connection with the team, “It’s an honor for me to share in the highs and lows with the football players. I feel more like a team member than just an interpreter. We share in the joy of victory and the disappointment of defeat. We face difficulties and challenges together. Through this process, I’ve come to appreciate the allure of football and the importance of teamwork.”

The Foreign Languages Bridge Volunteers Team of the College of Foreign Languages (CFL) is renowned for its excellent translation skills and its commitment to serving in foreign affairs. The team’s mission is to cultivate friendship ambassadors who possess innovative abilities and professional skills, thereby enhancing Chinese-foreign cooperation and exchanges. Originally established in 2009 as the Rainbow Bridge Volunteers Team, the group has provided services for various activities, including the 3^rd Sino-German Sci-tech Forum of Western Returned Scholars Association (Overseas-Educated Association of China), the 4^th Annual Conference of the Silk Road International League of Theatres, and the 2022 BRICS Skills Competition. Over the past two years, more than 1,600 volunteers have participated in voluntary activities, demonstrating their professional language competence through their services. This team truly embodies the spirit of integrating professional skills with voluntary services.

（Editor:Wei Linying）