【Article by GCIT】

In an era of intensifying global media competition, how can traditional broadcasting transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries to enter international markets? On October 27, the Master’s Program in Global Communication and Innovation Technology (GCIT) at National Chengchi University (NCCU) invited Paco Nájar, Spanish-language program host at Radio Taiwan International (Rti), to deliver a professional advising session titled “¡Hola Taiwan! Going Global On Air: The Endless Potential of International Broadcasting.”

Drawing from years of cross-cultural broadcasting experience, Nájar shared how his deep understanding of Chinese language and culture has helped him bring “the voice of Taiwan” to audiences across Latin America and the Spanish-speaking world, while offering students a behind-the-scenes look into international radio operations and cultural translation in global communication.

The session was moderated by Distinguished Professor Trisha Lin, Director of GCIT. Speaking fluently in both English and Mandarin, Nájar captivated the audience with his personal story, demonstrating how passion and persistence can be transformed into professional storytelling that connects Taiwan and the Spanish-speaking world.

From Lima to Rti: An Unexpected Journey into Broadcasting

Originally from Lima, Peru, Nájar began learning Mandarin in 2009 and later studied for a year in Shanghai. In 2015, he moved to Taiwan to pursue both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in East Asian Studies. Over the past decade, he has become fluent in Chinese reading, writing, listening, and speaking—and even discovered his broadcasting career through Chinese speech contests.

“Life often takes unexpected turns,” he said, recalling how his speech about climbing the Taipei 101 tower—from the 1st to the 91st floor—won a Mandarin oratory competition in 2017, catching Rti producers’ attention and earning him a guest interview that led to his first broadcast appearance.

“What you do in one area might bloom in another,” he told students. “Keep an open mind—every experience is connected; nothing stands alone.”

Nájar summarized his creative philosophy with three keywords: running, Chinese culture, and vegetarianism.

Taiwan hosts about 500–600 marathons annually, which inspired one of the episode in his video series “Con T de travesía: una vuelta por Taiwán,” (《阿兜仔ㄙㄟˇ臺灣》), introducing Taiwan’s running culture to international audiences. Last year, he also turned his 16-hour ascent of Yushan (Mt. Jade) into a radio feature. “I always research, experience things firsthand, and interview others before producing a show,” he explained. “That ensures accuracy—even down to details like Yushan’s exact height of 3,952 meters.”

On the cultural front, he showcased the episode focusing on Peking Opera, where he interviewed artistic directors about Journey to the West performances and translated the entire Chinese conversation into Spanish narration. He also translated Tao Yuanming’s poem Drinking Wine (Yǐn Jiǔ) for Spanish listeners. “No one in Peru or Spain has ever heard this poem,” he said. “I want them to feel the beauty of Chinese literature.”

A vegetarian for over a decade, Nájar joked that “Taiwan is a paradise for vegetarians,” though he also credits teamwork—delegating food-related stories to colleagues who specialize in culinary topics.

Beyond Translation: Cultural Mediation in Global News

Nájar went on to explain how Rti’s Spanish department operates. The five-member team translates and edits about seven news stories daily, following a two-person review system. “Even with multiple rounds of checks, mistakes can slip through,” he said. “That’s why we always proofread each other’s work.”

He emphasized that cultural translation—not just linguistic accuracy—is key to international broadcasting. “When translating for overseas audiences, you have to think from the listener’s perspective,” he explained. “For example, when reporting on the February 28 Incident, we add the year and a short context note, since Latin American listeners may not know this part of Taiwan’s history.”

Shortwave in the Digital Age

Despite the rise of digital media, Rti continues to maintain its shortwave broadcasting services. “In times of crisis or disaster, shortwave might be the only way to stay connected with the outside world,” Nájar noted.

Rti now broadcasts in over 20 languages, and the Spanish service will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year. According to global shortwave rankings, Rti’s Spanish programs have ranked among the top international broadcasters for five consecutive years. Their content blends hard news with cultural features—from daily current-affairs segments to stories on Paper Windmill Theatre tours, Grassland Arts Festivals, and Songshan Cultural and Creative Park.

“For Latin American listeners, a troupe like the Paper Windmill Theatre performing in all 368 townships across Taiwan is an extraordinary experience,” Nájar said.

Student Insights and Global Inspiration

The event drew an enthusiastic turnout of international students. GCIT first-year student Faye said, “I’m really interested in Rti and want to learn more about its programs. They’re not just making radio—they also run podcasts and YouTube channels. It seems like a great place for internships and career growth.”

Encouraging students to embrace Taiwan’s language and culture, Nájar said, “Keep learning Chinese and dive deeper into Taiwanese culture—you already have what it takes to be international communicators. Introducing Taiwan to the world through media is meaningful work, and it brings happiness, too.”

The event showcased GCIT’s commitment to fostering communication professionals with international perspectives and strong cultural awareness. 

Watch the event highlights here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85y8TgrlF_I

[全球傳播與創新科技碩士學位學程獲文化部與教育部高等教育深耕計畫補助]