Ever wondered how a young teen can leave a mark on the world?
We're shining a spotlight on the young visionaries who are doing just that! And this time around, we would like to emphasize these young teens are redefining what it means to make an impact!
For Jazmin, stepping into the realm of wushu was a powerful statement of identity and strength. It’s about more than just mastering the art; it’s about embracing who she is in a space that often highlights her uniqueness.
Born and raised in Negeri Sembilan, the 20-year-old young lass grew up in an environment shaped by discipline and structure. She studied at Chung Hua High School, Seremban, a Chinese independent school where strong values and academic rigour were emphasised from an early age.
“I was always active. Sports were a normal part of my life growing up,” she said. “Among everything I tried, wushu slowly became the one I committed to the most.”
Her introduction to the martial art came almost by chance. “At first, it was just something I tried because my brother suggested it. But after training for a while, I realised I genuinely enjoyed it,” she shared.
As the only Indian girl in a sport largely dominated by Chinese athletes, Jazmin was aware of her difference from the beginning. It was not always spoken about, but it was felt.
“Being different wasn’t always said out loud, but I felt it deeply. I may not have matched the sport’s typical image, but I carried something greater, heart, and with purpose. True champions don’t fit an image; they create one.” - This statement is just like fire as her spirit.
Despite facing a plethora of challenges, Jazmin chose to stand tall. What once felt like a weakness slowly became her greatest strength.
“By being the only one who looked different in wushu, people began to see the strength rather than the weaknesses, the unity rather than the differences,” she said.
The journey was far from easy. Training demands grew, expectations intensified, and there were moments when the pressure felt overwhelming. In those times, Jazmin relied on self-motivation, prayer, and the unwavering support of her family.
“I gave myself the motivation because the environment didn’t,” she said. “My family was always there. Whenever I felt stressed or doubtful, they reminded me why I started. At the end of the day, they support me no matter what.”
The strongest support system for every child? You guessed it, parents!
After representing Negeri Sembilan, she took on the world and clinched a gold medal at the wushu competition in Hong Kong. Her experience at the 9th World Kung Fu Championships further solidified her place among elite athletes.
While medals marked important milestones, Jazmin sees them as reflections of discipline rather than the definition of success.
Behind her achievements lies deep gratitude. Jazmin credits her former headmaster at Chung Hua High School, Seremban, for recognising her potential early on and supporting her financially throughout her school years.
“He saw the spark in me when I was still finding my way,” she said.
Currently, pursuing her Foundation in Arts at HELP University, Jazmin is also supported by HELP University and the Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur Diraja through scholarships that allow her to continue her studies.
Today, Jazmin stands not just as an athlete, but an identity to all the upcoming generations.
“I was the only one who looked like me,” she said. “And now, I’m the one they look up to.”
Jazmin’s story is a reminder that being different is not a setback, but a launchpad. If you’ve ever felt underestimated, know that your journey is just beginning.
