As the Global Women Leaders Summit is set to take place in Beijing on October 13 and 14, Beninese actress Mulan (Rawdoth ALAZI SOUMAILA) shares, via CGTN Français, a story of dreams and strength: the journey of a woman who turned cinema into a bridge between two cultures, embodying the spirit of resilience that women around the world can relate to.
Cinema: A Bridge Between Two Worlds For Mulan, her connection to China and cinema was born out of deep fascination. “I was captivated by the Chinese people's love for their homeland and their attachment to cultural roots,” she confides. This curiosity led her to highlight her own culture—Africa, and especially Benin. For her, the best way to tell a story is through cinema: “A long time ago, many Chinese people didn’t know Africa, didn’t know Benin. Africa has a story to tell, just like China. I wanted to be the link between these two rich worlds.”
From Actress to Cultural Ambassador As an ambassador for Sino-Beninese cinematic promotion, she has delivered speeches at cultural events: “The first time Benin hosted Chinese New Year, I was the presenter, and it was a memorable day for me—the day I was named ambassador for Sino-Beninese cinematic promotion. At the launch of the Chinese cinematography tournament group, I also gave a speech. We’re truly moving forward so that this friendship can endure. And now, we have a cinematography office at the presidency of Benin, and I know that together, we can truly commemorate the China–Benin friendship through cinema.” For her, every cultural initiative is an opportunity to strengthen ties between two continents.
Feminine Strength: Listening to Intuition, Supporting Others The path to her dream wasn’t without obstacles, and Mulan doesn’t hide the challenges. “It’s not easy. There are moments when you stumble, when others doubt you,” she admits. But her philosophy for overcoming these trials is clear: “The dream is a flame that burns within. You must listen to your intuition—it’s your best friend—and stay open to opportunities.” Her message for the Global Women Leaders Summit is all the more powerful: “We, as women, must support one another. When one woman achieves her dream, she opens the path for a hundred others.”
(Journalist: ZHANG Hui)