Meet Chermaine, who is no stranger to the stage, the spotlight, or the script. As one of Singapore’s most recognised bilingual emcees and voice artistes, she has built an illustrious career captivating audiences in both English and Mandarin. From hosting global events like APEC with Barack Obama in attendance to lending her voice to high-profile brands such as SK-II and AirAsia, Chermaine embodies poise, warmth, and professionalism.
But behind the glamour is a grounded individual whose journey started as a young girl simply fascinated by language, clarity, and expression. In this interview, Chermaine shares her earliest inspirations, how she manages high-stakes events, what truly goes on behind the microphone, and why adaptability and gratitude remain the cornerstones of her craft.
You are widely recognised as one of Singapore’s top bilingual emcees. What first sparked your love for the stage and the power of the human voice?
My love for speaking began in childhood. I used to pay close attention to my teachers and how they spoke, especially language teachers who were very particular about articulation and pronunciation in both English and Mandarin. I was fortunate to have such strong influences.
Being raised by my grandmother also helped. She spoke a very traditional form of Chinese, which gave me an authentic accent. On the English side, my teacher graduated from the UK, so we were exposed to British English, which gave me a solid foundation.
My teachers noticed my speaking ability and selected me for a cross-talk performance in primary school. That first performance at Victoria Theatre was nerve-wracking but exciting. After that, I realised I could speak in front of a crowd and I enjoyed it.
Hosting APEC 2009 with global leaders, including former US President Barack Obama in attendance, is a rare honour. How do you prepare for an event of that scale and what was running through your mind that day?
When I got the confirmation for the APEC job, I was thrilled but also anxious. It was a huge responsibility. I knew if I failed, it could damage my reputation permanently, but if I succeeded, it would open many doors. I reminded myself to stay calm, alert, and adaptable. I also kept praying that everything would run smoothly.
The event was split into two parts – cocktail reception and musical at the Esplanade, followed by a formal dinner. I had to announce guests’ names as they walked in, like a red carpet moment. There was added pressure because we didn’t know if President Obama would arrive on time or attend the dinner.
We had multiple scripts prepared and we had to be ready to adapt at a moment’s notice. I had to listen to the intercom, react instantly, and even run between locations for announcements. The experience taught me how crucial it is to stay alert and flexible.
Your voice has been featured in commercials for brands like AirAsia, SK-II and government campaigns. How is voiceover different from live hosting?
For voiceovers, I first watch the video to understand its feel and tone. Then I adjust my delivery according to the client’s brief. For example, some commercials require a factual, informative tone like a news broadcaster. Others, like the one for AirAsia, are emotional and whimsical, especially when voiced from a child’s perspective.
When I voiced for SK-II, I had to emulate a HK superstar, who is very bubbly and confident. I watched her videos to understand her style and energy. The clients felt my voice was similar in tonality, so I had to bring that out while making it my own. It’s all about adapting your tone to match the story and personality.
Never take anything or anyone for granted. Appreciate even the difficult moments as they teach you something. I hope to leave behind a legacy of gratitude, humility, and adaptability.
As a seasoned professional, how do you handle unexpected moments on stage that require calmness, improvisation, or emotional sensitivity?
Clients often have high expectations, and events can be unpredictable. My rule is to take instructions from one person only, usually the stage manager. That helps avoid confusion. If guests rush up or want to do something unplanned, I politely ask them to coordinate through the stage manager.
Emotional moments, like charity videos, can be touching. But as a host, you must draw a line. Feel it, acknowledge it, but stay composed. You can’t let emotions overwhelm you or the audience. My job is to keep the event flowing smoothly.
Behind the glamour, what are some lesser-known challenges of being a high-level emcee and voice talent?
For emceeing, people think we can just “copy and paste,” but every event requires customisation. Impromptu changes happen all the time. For example, last-minute guest additions during a cake-cutting ceremony.
We may not know who they are, so we have to buy time, be tactful, and allow someone to introduce them without offending anyone.
Sometimes, guests want to be on stage earlier or leave early, so the programme gets rearranged. That disrupts our mental scripting, and we have to rewire quickly. I always ask for a minute to recalibrate rather than rush and cause chaos.
In voiceovers, the challenge is different. I once had a client who wanted me to sound exactly like her. She had me repeat one sentence 20 times, chasing a tone she imagined. But every voice is unique.
I can emulate a feel or mood, but not mimic someone else entirely. That was one of the most frustrating sessions I have had.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
Never take anything or anyone for granted. Appreciate even the difficult moments as they teach you something. I hope to leave behind a legacy of gratitude, humility, and adaptability. Always be thankful for what you have and strive to be a better person.
What’s your vision for Singapore in the next five years?
AI is rapidly changing the world. We must adapt and grow alongside it. The younger generation needs guidance – not just academic knowledge but emotional intelligence, empathy, and values.
And for older generations, we should never stop learning. There’s a Chinese saying: 活到老，学到老 (Never stop learning). So keep up with technology, learn what you can, and stay curious.
If you could have a superpower for one day, what would it be, and why?
I would love to have a magic wand, like a fairy, and sprinkle kindness, love, and peace across the globe. If everyone had a kinder heart, no wars, only peace, the world would be a much better place. That would be my wish.
Connect with Chermaine: Facebook and Instagram.
Chermaine is a member of Rainmaker, a revolutionary movement that rallies like-minded people together based on the values of Love, Authenticity, Respect, Kindness and Youthfulness (LARKY).
