As a student at I-Shou University, we have opportunities to witness talented individuals coming from diverse backgrounds. There is no denying that this university is an appropriate setting for learning and engaging with various cultural facets. The Cultural Ambassador, also known as the Coronation Night, is one of the annual events, it is designed with non-identical themes and messages. It is a work of art created by our students, whose organizer is IPAS (International Performance Art Society), with the support of students who desire to widen their horizons in different fields under the supervision of OICA (Office of International Cross-strait Affairs). Tannyka Jodie John from Saint Lucia and Devierri Vinson Winardy from Indonesia have been formally announced as the Cultural Ambassadors for the year 2023. It was a long journey from preparation to the crowning moment where there were lessons, emotions, and memories gained during the process, which is believed as a core point. It is not about winning or losing in this competition, “I got a very important experience, and I met a lot of new friends. Social life is the most important part of this event” (Devierri). More importantly, “This competition further solidified the importance of not just having a beautiful face but also brains. The aspect of focusing on an advocacy and giving back to our community was a refreshing variation from conventional pageantry” (Tannyka). To fulfill the theme of Unity in Diversity, our Cultural Ambassadors of 2023, Tannyka and Devierri would like to establish a strong engagement with students not only in their home countries but also internationally to overcome the language barrier, so everyone can reinforce their knowledge and unite in unique ways.

As an audience in this magnificent event, I was impressed by how successful it was thanks to the effort of both organizers and candidates. It proved that they had a lengthened and endeavored time of preparation for such a great performance. I had an opportunity to witness the passionate spirits from the candidates’ clothing to the confidence they had on the stage. Their words and acts inspired those who are still afraid to step out of their comfort zone, they proved that “comfort zone is everyone’s enemy”. As long as you give yourself a try, no matter what the result is, the journey and the bravery matter!

This article is written by Duong Tu Nhu (Karen)  from Vietnam - a senior student  (the year 2023) of the Intelligence Tourism & Hospitality Management Department.