WUHAN, May 16 -- Celia Esquivel Salguero, originally from Guatemala, has emerged as a significant cultural bridge between Latin America and China through her social media presence.

Since arriving in China in 2014 as a student of Chinese Language and Literature at Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Hubei Province, Esquivel has evolved from posting personal reflections to creating a dynamic platform that engages a diverse audience.

Her Facebook page, Chapina en China, has garnered over 300,000 followers, with her livestreams attracting more than 3 million viewers.

Esquivel, now a Spanish instructor at Wuhan University, offers courses on subjects such as Latin American History, reflecting her deepening roots in China and her commitment to education and cultural exchange.

She has noted a growing interest among her followers in Chinese culture, educational opportunities in China, and technological advancements, including developments in new energy vehicles and robotics.

Esquivel highlights the rapid pace of cultural exchange over the past decade, likening it to a 'high-speed train' that has brought significant emotional and cultural interactions between the two regions.

Her fluency in Mandarin, enriched by local influences, underscores her adaptation to Chinese life, which has included an embrace of local cuisine, notably the increased availability of avocados—a staple in her Guatemalan diet.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Esquivel played a crucial role in countering misinformation about Wuhan, using her social media platforms to provide a firsthand account of life during the city's lockdown.

Her efforts significantly contributed to a more nuanced understanding of the situation, helping to build trust with her international audience, many of whom still seek her perspective on current events in China.

Celia also observes advancements in China's knowledge of Latin America, particularly in regional academic institutions.

She notes the establishment of Spanish language programs and a Latin American research institute at Hubei University, indicative of growing educational interest.

In January 2023, she facilitated a collaboration between her alma mater and Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala to initiate a student exchange program, enhancing academic ties.

Following a visit to Guatemala in 2023 after a five-year hiatus, Esquivel noted the increasing presence of Chinese culture in her hometown, including the emergence of Chinese food establishments, which reflects a reciprocal influence in cultural exchanges.

Esquivel's aspirations focus on expanding educational opportunities for Latin American students in China, advocating for enhanced ties that enable mutual cultural benefit and technological advancement.

Her narrative embodies the broader spectrum of cultural connection and understanding as global societies navigate an increasingly interconnected world.