Peking University, February 9, 2022: Along with the beautiful melody, the youth from all over the world took firm steps to the stage, with pictures showcasing people’s life in different parts of world unfolding behind them. This special program during the opening ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics is called “Tribute to the People”.


Alexandra Pozhidaeva, a Russian international student from Peking University, is a member of the performance team. She says: “I watched the 2008 Beijing Olympics in front of the TV back then, and 14 years later, I went from the screen to the stage. The simple and romantic opening ceremony reflects the perfect combination of culture and technology. I am very honored to be able to stand on this stage. This year, the Heads of State of Russia and China are both attending the Winter Olympics. As an international student from Russia, I’m so lucky to witness and participate in this wonderful journey of ice and snow.”

Last year, 45 international student representatives from Peking University wrote a letter to President Xi Jinping, sending best wishes for the centennial anniversary of the Communist Party of China, and Alexandra was one of them. In his reply, President Xi Jinping warmly welcomed them to go to different places of China and have a deeper understanding of the real China. At the same time, they are encouraged to share their thoughts and feelings to more people, so as to play positive roles in promoting people-to-peoples bonds.

Alexandra was greatly encouraged by the letter. From her perspective, actively participating in the preparation of the Winter Olympics as an international student can enhance her understanding of China. “Holding large-scale sports events can bring us together to work collectively, and promote communication and friendship of people from all over the world. This is a great opportunity to promote cooperation and tell the story between China and the world!” Alexandra says.

Alexandra is from the Siberia region of Russia. The natural environment in her hometown is suitable for ice and snow sports. Her younger brother has been training in ice hockey since young and has now become a hockey player. All these made Alexandra very passionate for winter sports, so she enthusiastically signed up to be a performer for the Winter Olympics once the selection was launched.

Although Alexandra has served as a volunteer in various activities such as the World Peace Forum and Middle East Peace Forum, the selection of volunteers and performers for the Winter Olympics still made her nervous. “When I found out that I was selected, I screamed with excitement and called my mother immediately.”

Since October last year, Alexandra’s life has gone into “Winter Olympics mode”. Even though it was tough, she totally enjoyed the experience. Alexandra told the reporter that she would concentrate on watching the game after the opening ceremony. “I will cheer for players that I like from ROC and China. I also hope that players from ROC can feel the charm of Beijing while making brilliant achievements.”

Written by: Wang Yunlin
Edited by: Ng Joong Hwee
Source: PKU News (Chinese)