Ten ambassadors have been appointed to promote Maoming's "Madam Xian" culture, after being chosen from the 20 competing candidates on Jan 21.

Ten ambassadors are appointed to promote Maoming's "Madam Xian" culture on Jan 21. [Photo/WeChat account: maofabu]

Madam Xian was born in what is present-day Maoming in the year 512, during the Southern and Northern Dynasties period (420-581). She lived through the war era under the Liang (502-557), Chen (557-589), and Sui (581-618) dynasties. She was a female leader of the Baiyue ethnic group who fought to safeguard national unity, promote ethnic integration, and spread the advanced production of technology.

Madam Xian was praised by the late Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai (1898-1976) as "China's No 1 heroine" for her kind-heartedness to her people and her loyalty to the country.

The 20 candidates were divided into three groups, namely vocal music, language, and dance. Each of them had an opportunity to play to their strong points.

In addition, performances such as displays of the traditional clothing of the Han ethnic group and evening dresses were also staged to create even more memorable moments.

Candidates wearing the traditional clothing of the Han ethnic group display traditional Chinese painting and calligraphy works. [Photo/WeChat account: maofabu]

Che Yongqiang, president of Maoming Daily, said that the kind-heartedness of Madam Xian has been passed down in Maoming for thousands of years, and has become the "root" and "soul" of the city, as well as a unique cultural calling card for the spirit of Maoming city.

He also expressed his hopes that the city's slogans of "Kind-hearted Maoming" and "Kind-hearted Spirits" can be widely spread following the selection of the ambassadors.

As for Lin Jingyang, overall winner of the selection event, Madam Xian's spirit enables her to have a deeper understanding of Maoming, and helps cultivate herself into a kind, independent, beautiful, and confident woman in the new era.