Chen has a very deep affection for Fujian. [Photo provided to gofujian.com]

Although not born in Fujian, Chen Jiayi spent much of her childhood there. The province remains a cherished part of her memories. Yet the true turning point, when she began to understand the depth of Chinese civilisation, came from an unexpected book: Comprehensive Mirror for Aid in Government. This monumental historical chronicle, rarely read in full even by adults, became the starting point of her cultural journey, helping her reconnect with her roots while living abroad.

 Even far from home, Chen's family has always kept traditional customs alive. Every Spring Festival, the family visits Xinyuan Temple to pray for peace and blessings. In the Philippines, Chinese festivals such as Spring Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Dragon Boat Festival are also celebrated. These traditions, passed down through generations of overseas Chinese, have also drawn interest in the local community, forging meaningful cultural bridges that transcend ethnicity.

Chen's school also organises various cultural activities: celebrations for the Spring Festival, Chinese recitation and essay competitions, and calligraphy exhibitions, etc. These activities are beloved by students, and for Chen, they have been more than just opportunities to improve her language skills, they have deepened her understanding of the beauty and diversity of Chinese civilisation.

Growing up in an overseas Fujianese family, Chen was raised on the values her elders talked about most: tolerance, gratitude, and love for on"'s homeland. These words serve as inspiration for her when participating in Chinese character chess. The game combines traditional Chinese characters with chess rules, demanding both language ability and logical thinking. "The competition was more than just an achievement," she recalls. "It felt like a conversation between me and my cultural roots."

Her deeper connection to Chinese culture, however, came from the book Comprehensive Mirror for Aid in Government. "It was like watching a long historical drama," Chen says. "Every historical figure had a story that inspired me." For example, she learned how different personalities shaped the fates of Zhuge Liang and Sima Yi. The unexpected twists in history taught her how to face challenges with wisdom and composure. As she delved deeper into Chinese history, she grew fascinated by China's unique development path, further strengthening her sense of identity as Chinese.

Looking to the future, Chen has a clear and determined plan. "Fujian will always be my beautiful hometown," she says. She hopes to continue studying Chinese culture in depth and contribute to the community that nurtured her. For Chen, promoting friendship and cultural exchange between China and the Philippines is not just a mission; it's a heartfelt way to honour her roots and carry forward the enduring spirit of Fujian.