Beninese Actress ‘Mulan’ Bridges Cultures Through Comedy in China
For Alazi Soumaila Rawdoth, a young actress from Benin affectionately nicknamed “Mulan” in the Chinese mainland, comedy has been more than just entertainment—it’s been a lifeline. Her journey from a film enthusiast in West Africa to a rising cultural ambassador in China is a story of passion, perseverance, and the universal language of laughter.
Growing up in Benin, Alazi was captivated by the action-packed comedies of Jackie Chan. The humor transcended language barriers, igniting her fascination with Chinese cinema and culture. “Jackie Chan’s movies made me laugh and dream,” she recalls. “They showed me that humor and action could tell powerful stories that everyone can understand.”
Determined to follow her dreams, Alazi moved to China to study film. Learning Mandarin was a challenge, but she found that comedy was her bridge to understanding the new language and connecting with people around her. “Comedy taught me how to express myself beyond words,” she says. “It’s a universal language that brings people together.”
In an interview with CGTN, Alazi shared how her experiences have shaped her mission to strengthen China-Africa cultural ties through film. By embracing comedy, she believes she can highlight shared values and break down stereotypes. “I want to tell stories that resonate with both Africans and Chinese,” she explains. “We have so much in common, and humor is a beautiful way to showcase that.”
Today, Alazi is involved in various film projects that aim to blend African and Chinese cultures. Her work not only entertains but also educates audiences about the richness of cross-cultural experiences. As she continues her journey, she hopes to inspire other young people to pursue their passions and build bridges between different worlds.
