When her name was called to perform a traditional Chinese dance, eight-year-old Shirleen Chepkemoi lit up the stage with rhythmic precision, an infectious smile, and a natural connection to the audience.

Dressed in a crisp pink dress and black boots, the third-grader captivated a packed auditorium during the fifth edition of the "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Show for Foreign Primary School Pupils, held on Tuesday at Brookehouse School on the outskirts of Kenya's capital, Nairobi.

Despite stiff competition, Chepkemoi emerged as the overall winner of the event, held under the theme "Happy Chinese." The contest featured three categories: Chinese language speech, general knowledge, and a talent show that included dance, poetry, and music.

"I feel good after winning this competition. It was a great experience dancing in front of many people," said Chepkemoi, who began learning Chinese in Grade Two at her public primary school in Nakuru County, about 160 km northwest of Nairobi.

Surrounded by her proud mother, Judy Chepng'eno, and several relatives, Chepkemoi said she was inspired by a female teacher to study Chinese. Over time, her interest grew into a passion for Chinese dance.

Clutching her trophy and beaming with joy as the audience cheered, she shared her dream: "I want to become a Chinese language teacher."

The Kenya division finals of the competition brought together 20 pupils from 15 public and private primary schools. Jointly organized by the Chinese Embassy in Kenya and the Confucius Institute at Egerton University, the event was attended by senior government officials, diplomats, education leaders, and parents.

Twelve-year-old Shannel Njoki, a seventh-grader who was named first runner-up alongside another participant after performing a contemporary Chinese dance, said her fascination with Chinese films sparked her interest in the language and culture.

"When I started studying the Chinese language, it actually helped me understand their culture better. I love their dances, their language, and their attire," said Njoki, surrounded by cheering fans.

Victoria Muthoni, an eight-year-old Grade Four pupil, took home the "Most Eloquent" award. She walked confidently to the stage to join fellow finalists for the prize-giving ceremony.

Earlier, she had impressed judges and the audience alike with her pronunciation of Chinese words. She said she hopes to use her language skills to foster international friendship.

The annual Chinese Bridge competition has motivated an increasing number of Kenyan children and youth to learn Mandarin and immerse themselves more deeply in Chinese culture, helping strengthen bonds of friendship with China, said Arnold Opiyo, Kenyan director of the Confucius Institute at Egerton University.