Common path forward

To truly understand a country and its culture, one needs to master the language, both young women emphasized.

"Language can break stereotypes and open your mind," said Anyakora, referring to media narratives that are pushed about China.

Pala echoed the sentiment. "It is easy to have opinions about something, but it might just differ from your perspectives because that is all you have been seen throughout your lives."

Engaging with a language and culture in the Far East enriches one's appreciation for the diversity of the world, Pala added.

In complex times when mutual understanding is the only way forward, bilingual and multilingual speakers play crucial roles.

"I think the contest is helping to train the next generation of people who will be able to work together, and we need more of that," said Cameron Patterson, the European champion in the 2015 Chinese Bridge competition.

Jiang Duo contributed to this story.