Exposed to Mandarin since primary school, Vanessa is most comfortable speaking Mandarin with her family members, friends and shooting coaches.

Vanessa has enjoyed shooting since she was young and converses with her Chinese coach in Mandarin. Although sometimes she may not be able to understand some of the phrases used by her coach, she nevertheless sees it as an opportunity to learn and strengthen her knowledge and understanding of Mandarin.

Like many youths, Vanessa enjoys listening to Chinese songs and finds some of the lyrics meaningful and that they help her reflect on life.

The Speak Mandarin Campaign 07/08 is honoured to welcome Vanessa as one of our activists this year.

Watch Vanessa as she gives ST journalist Marc Lim Mandarin pointers in the fortnightly video series On Your Marc, Get Set, Go! at http://www.stomp.com.sg/epl/smc/