Lin Lan, an undergraduate French major from Shenzhen University, won third place at the national final of the 13th French Talent Competition (Trophée des Talents)on March 20, 2026 in Beijing.
Lin, a junior student from the College of International Studies, advanced to the national final as the champion of South China and competed against top contestants from North and East China. She stood out in the final round to secure a national third-place finish.
Lin Lan at the competition venue
Launched in 2013 by the China-France Chamber of Commerce and the French Embassy in China, the competition is one of the country’s most prestigious events in the field of French studies. It attracts participants from more than 150 universities and aims to enhance students’ critical thinking and French-language proficiency through speeches and discussions, while promoting exchanges between the business and education sectors.
The competition consists of four stages: video screening, regional semifinals, regional finals, and the national final. This year’s finalists came from Peking University, Shanghai International Studies University, and Shenzhen University, demonstrating their analytical and language skills through presentations and Q&A session.
Lin was guided by Associate Professor Wang Lei, with additional support from French Lecturer Xavier Gilbert in speech preparation and pronunciation.
Lin Lan (L2) receiving the award from Ms. Pavageau (Minister-Counselor of the French Embassy in China), Ms. Penard (President of the China-France Chamber of Commerce), and Ms. Cheng Changwei (APAC Director of Business and Marketing at SDG Pharma)
This achievement reflects the growing strength of Shenzhen University’s French program and will contribute to further improvements in teaching, including a stronger focus on innovation, practical training, and talent development.
Lin Lan (R) and Wang Lei
