"Laowai" in China | A Brazilian's love for martial arts and TCM

NANNING, July 19 (Xinhua) -- Born in 1978, Gabriel de Moraes Neto hails from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He is now a martial arts coach based in Nanning, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

Inspired by Bruce Lee's Kung Fu at a young age, Gabriel developed an interest in Chinese martial arts and began to receive systematic training in 1999. As his understanding of martial arts and traditional Chinese culture deepened, he named himself "Mo Xiaolong," after Bruce Lee's Chinese name "Li Xiaolong."

In 2008, Gabriel came to the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine as an exchange student to study acupuncture while practicing martial arts. To him, both Kung Fu and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) display the charm of Chinese culture.

After completing his studies, Gabriel returned to Brazil, where he opened a school specializing in Kung Fu training and acupuncture courses.

In 2011, Gabriel revisited China and met his soulmate in Nanning, whom he married the following year back home in Brazil. In 2016, Gabriel and his wife returned to Nanning and decided to stay and work in China. Soon after their return, Gabriel was introduced to local martial arts master Cai Rongkun and became a coach at a local martial arts club.

In his spare time, Gabriel enjoys cycling, Chinese tea and calligraphy, while learning from local TCM practitioners on medical techniques. He shares insights into martial arts and TCM cultures on his social media accounts, attracting a significant international following. "Chinese traditional culture is truly captivating. I'm committed to continuous learning," Gabriel said.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Brazil. As an expat, Gabriel aspires to serve as a cultural ambassador to foster understanding between people from the two countries while promoting China's traditions among Brazilians.

Photographers: Jin Haoyuan, Cao Yiming

Editors: Meng Chenguang, Hu Zhixuan, Chu Jiayin, Zhou Dixiao, Cui Bowen, Mu Wenchun, Cheng Li

China Story Studio■