Mariatu Kargbo, popularly known as the "Black Pearl of China", is from Sierra Leone, Africa. Coming to China to participate in a competition in 2004, she seemed predestined to become attached to China.

 

Mariatu Kargbo, a true Cultural Ambassador

(Photo by People's Daily Online)

 

In the years of living in China, Mariatu loves China more and dreams of bringing African and Chinese culture to the world. Fascinated by traditional Chinese culture, she even went to Sichuan to learn the art of face changing.

 

The face changing, known as "Bian Lian" in Chinese, is an essential aspect of Sichuan opera. Maria spent six months learning this art and then performed on many important stages worldwide. Her sole motive is to bring the infinite charm of Chinese culture to the world.

 

As a big fan of Chinese Kungfu, Mariatu is also a student of Liu Suibin, the famous Qincheng Tai Chi master.

 

Mariatu in one of China’s Cultural Performances

(Photo by People's Daily Online)

 

In fact, not only does Mariatu learn traditional Chinese art to express her love for China, but she also gets involved in many humanitarian activities. "I'm happy to be an African and giving back," Mariatu Kargbo said.

 

"Giving back." Mariatu uses these words all the time. And she walks the talk, too.

 

After the earthquake in 2008, Mariatu joined a Chinese rescue team, rushed to the stricken areas despite a 5-hour trek and provided mental health care for local children.

 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, she actively signed up as a volunteer once again to be on the front line, to monitor other residents' temperature at the entrance of her residence. Mariatu also made a generous donation to the China Charity Federation.

 

She thinks of herself as a bridge between communities, between Africa and China. And indeed she is.