UK students celebrate Chinese Language Day in London

Devina Mistry, a British student from Queen Mary's High School, said learning Mandarin has been much more than just acquiring a new way to communicate.

"It has been a gateway to understanding a rich culture and an opportunity to connect with people," she said. "Embarking on this journey was initially daunting due to the complexity of the characters and the tonal nature of the language. However, each new word I learn and each phrase I master fuels my passion to visit China."

She added: "Mandarin is not just a language of business to diplomacy. It is the language of the ancient poets and philosophers, whose wisdom is still relevant in today's global society.

"I am truly grateful for the opportunity to learn this beautiful language and for the doors it has and will open in the future."