Aleah Ramouthar: 8-year-old rising star in Mandarin

Loading player...
At just eight years old, Aleah Ramouthar isn't your typical primary school learner. With a spark for adventure and a love for Chinese culture, she's diving headfirst into the world of Mandarin. Guided by her enthusiastic teacher, Vivian Zeng, Ramouthar has already started making waves on the Mandarin language scene.

Ramouthar's journey began when she was introduced to Mandarin at her school's extramural course, led by Zeng. What makes Ramouthar stand out is her exceptional talent in picking up the language quickly. Zeng recalls, "Aleah is one of my star students. She memorised a Chinese song in just one week!" It's this eagerness to learn and excel that sets Ramouthar apart.

Despite having only started learning Mandarin in February, Ramouthar participated in the Chinese Bridge competition in Cape Town this June. With just three and a half months of preparation, she clinched second place. Sporting a traditional Chinese outfit, meeting new people and being celebrated for her efforts, Ramouthar found the entire experience exhilarating.

She’s not stopping there. Ramouthar is already gearing up for next year's competition, aiming for that coveted first-place spot. Zeng, equally excited, says, "If Aleah wins first place, she gets a chance to go to China with one of her parents and compete in the World Chinese Bridge competition for her age group."

Ramouthar's dedication and passion for learning Mandarin are truly inspirational. With Zeng's expert guidance and her own hard work, the sky is the limit for this young prodigy. Who knows? We might soon see Ramouthar shining on an even bigger stage, bridging cultures and bringing people together.

"I want to take my mom and dad to China, meet the pandas and eat Chinese food," she says.
11 Jul 2025 English South Africa Society & Culture · Personal Journals

Other recent episodes

Stacey and J Sbu take on the viral TikTok Accent Challenge

Stacey and J Sbu put their accent skills to the test with the viral TikTok Accent Challenge. From Irish to Australian and Scottish, the team delivers plenty of laughs as they try to guess and master some of the world's most recognisable accents.
23 Jul 5 min

The Great Drive Debate: Is littering laziness or disrespect?

Is littering simply a bad habit, or does it show a lack of respect for others and the environment? Stacey and J Sbu unpack South Africa's growing litter problem and hear what listeners have to say in this thought-provoking edition of The Great Drive Debate.
22 Jul 13 min

A couple finally got married after 64 years together

A couple in Kenya has captured hearts after finally tying the knot following 64 years together. Stacey and J Sbu unpack this remarkable love story and the timeless reminder that there's no deadline for love, commitment, or saying "I do."
21 Jul 3 min

AARTO explained: What South Africa's new traffic fine system means for you

Confused about AARTO? You're not alone. Stacey and J Sbu speak to Road Traffic Infringement Agency spokesperson Monde Mkalipi, who breaks down exactly how the AARTO rollout works, what happens when you receive a traffic infringement notice, how long you have to respond, when the 50% discount applies, and what…
21 Jul 7 min

Who deserves your biggest thank you? Heartwarming stories of kindness

Sometimes the smallest acts of kindness leave the biggest impact. Stacey and J Sbu asked listeners to reflect on the people who've made a difference in their lives, from a security guard who offered hope during a difficult season to a cashier who quietly covered the last few rand at…
20 Jul 7 min