Mandarin learning opens doors of opportunity

Six years ago, Matthaios Kapetanios made a choice, of learning the Chinese language. Years later, that choice led him to a job at the telecommunications giant Huawei in Athens, where his Mandarin skills not only got him hired but also allowed him to embrace Chinese culture and connect with his colleagues.

Kapetanios, who has been working in Huawei's supply chain department since June 2022, said it was his father's advice that led him on the path toward learning Mandarin.

"The decision to learn Chinese was influenced by multiple factors," said the 23-year-old Greek, who holds a bachelor's degree in maritime studies from the University of Piraeus.

"My father said to me it would be a wise choice given China's rapid development at the time and its potential of becoming the language of the future."

Recounting his initial encounter with the Chinese language, Kapetanios described the first year as "venturing into the unknown".

With no prior exposure to the language, he was both excited and apprehensive. Little did he know this new adventure would ignite a passion that continues to this day.

"I find the Chinese language incredibly interesting. There's always something new to learn, be it characters or words," Kapetanios said. "The most intriguing part is that, in the beginning, I faced some challenges because there are no similar words or expressions in the European languages. However, after two or three years, I got used to the language, and it gradually became easier."

Kapetanios attributes this to his perseverance during the crucial three-year period when many learners gave up. His dedication and passion enabled him to overcome the learning curve and appreciate the beauty of the Chinese language.

Beyond the classroom, Kapetanios sought opportunities to immerse himself in the Chinese culture. He participated in a 24-day Confucius Institute summer camp and explored Beijing and Dali in Yunnan province in 2019. He said these experiences allowed him to not only practice his language skills but also gain valuable insights into the lives and customs of the Chinese people.

"One of the most memorable cultural differences I encountered was the Chinese preference for drinking hot water," Kapetanios recounted with a chuckle.

"I remember a teacher's surprise when she saw me drinking cold water. She explained that in China, hot water is the norm, even during summer. It was fascinating to witness firsthand how these small cultural nuances can shape a society."

As Kapetanios continued his linguistic and cultural journey, he soon found himself working at Huawei, where his proficiency in Chinese became a valuable asset. Speaking directly in Chinese with his Chinese colleagues not only enhanced communication but also fostered a deeper connection and understanding.