M A N D A R I N S U P E R S T A R
M A N D A R I N S U P E R S T A R
M A N D A R I N S U P E R S T A R
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Ruby Dalmer
When and why did you start learning Chinese?
I started learning Mandarin Chinese at the Australian International School of Hong Kong when I was 8 years old when my family moved to Hong Kong. We were required to learn it at school. I didn't initially like learning Chinese but over time, completely fell in love with the language. I picked it back up again in high school and continued to study it at university through my degree.
What is the best thing about learning Chinese?
The best thing about learning Chinese for me is the way language can function to break down barriers between people. Especially onshore in Aotearoa, connecting with people through Mandarin Chinese has led me to get to know a side of people, particularly within Auckland's large Chinese diaspora, inaccessible to non-Mandarin speaking Kiwis. It is a way to make instant connections which can often lead to deep friendships with such a diverse array of people. It also allows you to get out of your comfort zone and grow from the invaluable experience of being a guest in someone else's culture.
What opportunities have you gained because of your Chinese learning?
Because of my Chinese learning, I have been able to take part in a high school speech competition, take my learning further at university, do Asian Studies alongside language learning to gain a deeper understanding of the culture surrounding the language, go on a three-month language learning exchange in Taiwan on a scholarship from the Taiwanese government, and finally, help lead me to my current job at the Asia New Zealand Foundation.
What would you say to other Kiwis who are thinking about learning Chinese?
Don't hesitate! I would say that learning any language will completely enrich your worldview - leading you to discover fascinating history, culture, and customs. Beyond that though, learning Mandarin Chinese specifically is a particularly rewarding pursuit to undertake. Between the thousands of years of history, the sheer amount of people you open up unique communication channels to, and the depth of cultural knowledge on offer, there is truly something there for everyone. Learning Chinese is a challenge which I believe can be an enormous benefit and life-transforming experience for any Kiwi.
Do you have a favourite Chinese word or expression? Why do you like it?
My favourite Chinese word or expression is 缘分 Yuánfèn, which means a fateful coincidence or chance which brings people together. I love this word for two reasons. Firstly, I have had a couple of experiences meeting Chinese people in Auckland where they have independently referred to our chance meeting/interaction as 缘分 and likened it to the English concept of Serendipity, which happens to be my favourite English word. I also love this word because it carries such a depth of concept within just two characters. It doesn't have a clear translation. It is complex and challenging.