CityU holds 9th “City Cup” English Speech Competition

 

The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences of the City University of Macau recently hosted the final of the 9th "City Cup" English Speech Competition. As part of CityU’s 45th‑anniversary celebrations, the competition invited students to share their "My CityU Story," drawing participants from all faculties and majors. After a competitive preliminary round, 11 finalists advanced to compete for the champion, runner‑up, second runner‑up, and “Most Popular Speaker” awards. Associate Dean Professor Huang Guowen and Director of General Education Dr. Sha Lei were present to offer professional guidance and encouragement.

 

 

Associate Dean Professor Huang Guowen encouraged contestants to showcase their talents and shared his vision for the City Cup’s future, noting that university life is not just about coursework but also emotional growth and personal transformation. Programme Coordinator Dr. Sha Lei reflected on the City Cup’s legacy, highlighting its role in general education and talent development, and praised the contestants’ performances.

 

This year’s guest judges were Associate Professor Xu Minhui from the University of Macau, Assistant Professor Cai Yanling from the Macau University of Science and Technology, and Assistant Professor Chen Zhuojia from Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University. They provided valuable feedback. CityU’s Senior Lecturer Garant Mikel and Lecturer Anna Choi served as question judges, testing contestants’ critical thinking and adaptability through impromptu questions.

 

 

After two rounds of prepared and impromptu speeches, Horona Shao Ziyun won the championship, Karlie Li Kaicheng took first runner‑up, Wang Siyi placed second runner‑up, and Liu Xize received the “Most Popular Speaker” award.

 

The “City Cup” is more than a language competition; it is a platform for intellectual and cultural exchange, where students can showcase their talents and sharpen their communication skills. CityU will continue to build exchange platforms, strengthen talent cultivation and campus culture, and support holistic student development, contributing to the high‑quality growth of Macau's higher education.

Voices of CityU Students

 

Champion

Horona Shao Ziyun

It’s a great honor to win the championship in the 9th "City Cup" English Public Speaking Competition.This year’s theme, "My CityU Story," allowed me to reflect on my first year here. As a freshman, my story at CityU started with the challenge of stepping out of my comfort zone, and this platform provided me with the perfect opportunity to grow and showcase my abilities. Moreover, it’s a special privilege to win this award during the 45th anniversary of our university. I feel inspired to contribute my own story to the long history of CityU.I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to the university for providing such a professional platform for us to express ourselves. I’m also deeply thankful to the judges for their professional feedback, and to my professors for their invaluable support. Lastly, a heartful thank you to my dear friends for their constant encouragement, which gave me the confidence to stand on this stage.This achievement is a shared joy, and it will motivate me to keep moving forward.

 

First Runner‑up

Karlie Li Kaicheng

The theme of this competition gave me a chance to look back on my CityU story, especially the moments of meeting and growing with my friends. These memories reminded me that my time at CityU has been more than just studying; it has been a meaningful and beautiful journey of growth.

 

Second Runner‑up

Veronica Wang Siyi

I am truly honored to receive this award amidst such inspiring competition. This recognition means a great deal to me, and I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my professors for their invaluable guidance, and to my fellow contestants whose eloquence and passion constantly pushed me to improve. A special thank you goes to City University for hosting this meaningful event, which gave us a platform to find our voices, especially as we celebrate the University’s 45th anniversary. This experience has taught me that speaking is not just about being heard, but about connecting with others. I will carry this unforgettable memory and the spirit of the City Cup forward.

Most Popular Speaker

Grace Liu Xize

I'm truly honored to be the most popular speaker! This award means a lot to me. It's a recognition of my efforts in preparing and presenting. I'm grateful for the platform of "City Cup". This experience has boosted my confidence. I'll keep striving to improve my English speaking skills.

 

Source: Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences