Singer moves out of Africa, into spotlight

Philanthropy

On May 12, 2008, Kargbo was performing in Sichuan province when the Wenchuan earthquake hit. She immediately went to Wenchuan and volunteered to deliver medical supplies, becoming the first foreigner at the scene of the disaster.

"The second day, May 13, was my birthday," Kargbo said. "It was meaningful spending it helping the needy."

Since then, she has continued to support orphans who lost parents during the earthquake, providing funds for daily necessities and their education, and regularly returning to visit them.

She also supports hundreds of children in her homeland through her philanthropic work.

Kargbo signed with a cultural company in 2010.

Cheng Zhonghe, president of Smile Culture & Art (Beijing), a cultural and entertainment company based in Beijing, said Kargbo was fluent in Chinese and of good character. "I decided to sign her after she performed several times after our first meeting," he said.

"The best thing about her is her kind heart and she knows Chinese culture deeply, which has made her the only foreign artist we have signed."

Kargbo grasps every opportunity to promote China and its culture, Cheng said. She is often invited to perform at China-Africa cultural events. "She has given a lot to China," Cheng said. "I hope she has a bright future in her singing career and can do more for cultural exchanges between China and African countries."

Kargbo has also made a series of short videos called "Small, Small Chinese" to teach foreigners Mandarin.

"I hope people will learn that China is a peaceful place where people can realize their dreams no matter what color they are," she said.

"You need to know Chinese culture, which is important to understand society and people here. Then, you will get the chance to establish yourself like me; from nothing to something, from a girl selling water on the street to an artist who can make a contribution to the world."