This student from class of 2016 has practiced ice skating since her early university year in 2016 by joining Glaciem Skating ITB. She has practiced the sport since October 2016. Ice skating has brought her to Bangkok, Thailand in Asia Ice Skate competition.

Her diligent training brought her to enter her first competition on January 2017. That competition was a start to many ice skating competitions she has entered. To date, she has collected 20 medals comprising 18 gold medals and 2 silver medals. “These four medals become my 17th to 20th medals,” said Vanessa.

Her journey on winning the medals is not an easy one. She has to spare fewer time on rest and playing, and manage her school time. Luckily, her spirit is strong. “This sport has taught me about sacrifice. Sacrificing my time, my sweat. When my friends are playing, I have to focus on my training,” said Vanessa.

This achievement is the actualization of her dream. Therefore, she encourages others to have a dream and aspiration. “If you have a dream, do not be afraid to achieve it. Show that you can do it with your effort and sacrifice. Show that you can be something. It is not too late to start,” she concluded.

Right now, Vanessa is preparing to compete on other competitions such as Ice Skate Malaysia, Bangkok Figure Skating, and Ice Skate Asia in China this year. She hopes to increase her level from freestyle 2 to freestyle 3 so that she can compete on more categories.

Reporter: Moch Akbar Selamat