Distinguished guests, Respected teachers, beloved family and friends, and my dear fellow graduates,

Good morning!

My name is Julienne, and I come from Rwanda. Standing here today as a PhD graduate, I am full of immense honor and emotion.

Eight years ago, I came to China with a dream to do a doctorate. At that time, I was already a high school physics teacher with seven years of experience, as well as a mother of two young daughters. When I learnt about the opportunity to receive the OWSD scholarship, I was both excited and hesitant. Excited because I could finally pursue my dream; hesitant because I would have to leave my children and a regular life behind. But in the end, I decided to persevere, because I wanted to show my daughters that it is never too late to pursue your dreams.

My first few days in China were full of challenges. The language barrier, the cultural differences, the academic pressure, and the longing for my family often brought me to tears at night. Then, at the beginning of 2020, the pandemic broke out, and I was stuck at home for three years, unable to return to China to continue my studies. During this time, I felt anxious and lost, but the unwavering support of my family and the encouragement of my advisor gave me new hope. My daughters told me, "Mum, we are so proud of you. One day, we also want to study science and become someone valuable, just like you." Their words were the biggest motivation for me to keep going.

In China, I was welcomed with incredible kindness. My supervisor, Professor Sun Lianfeng, was not only a rigorous scholar but also like a father to me, who guided me meticulously. My lab colleagues, the staff at the education office, and all the friends I made in China welcomed me with open arms. No one here judged me because of I am instead, I received endless help and encouragement.

Today, I have finally completed this eight-year journey. Some people ask me: "Why give up a stable life for such a difficult path?" My answer is simple: Dreams have no limits and no boundaries. My PhD is not only a personal achievement; it is also a message to my daughters, my students, and women from developing countries all over the world: never give up, and your dreams can come true.

Upon returning Home, I hope to become a university professor, continue scientific research and cultivate future talent for my country. The road ahead may not be easy, but I believe that my time in China has given me the most precious gifts of knowledge, courage, and strength.

Finally, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, my advisor, my family, and everyone who has supported me along the way. China has not only given me an education but also the belief that with determination, anything is possible.

May we all hold on to our dreams and live without regrets.

Thank you!