Chinese supermodel Liu Wen is still in shock over her history-making rise to fame. She is often considered a fresh face in a sea of mostly fair-haired, blue-eyed models gracing the world's catwalks. Now, let's find out more about the rising star.

Never dreaming of becoming a model, the 23-year-old entered a modelling contest in 2006 in order to win a computer to help her with her school work.

Now, five years later the 5-foot-10-inch beauty has strutted her way into history on catwalks around the world. In 2009, she became the first-ever East Asian model to walk in a Victoria's Secret fashion show and she continues to be a fixture in the iconic lingerie store's shows. The following year Liu achieved another highlight by becoming the first Asian spokesmodel for cosmetic company Estee Lauder.

Never dreaming of becoming a model, the 23-year-old entered a modelling contest in 2006 in order to win a computer to help her with her school work.

Liu says that back home in Yongzhou, Hunan Province, her parents at first didn't truly understand her high-profile job. But now, years later, they are very proud of her. Still, the distance and high demands of her job make it difficult to visit home.

Liu Wen said, "I can enjoy my life better as a model. I have to travel to different countries constantly very often. I don't have a lot of time to be with them, but they give me a lot of support and strength."

Liu explains about how she feels about her supermodel status.

Liu said, "I'm very happy and want to do a good job because modeling makes me happy, not only career-wise, but also in my life. I enjoy it. I hope I can do a good job and bring the beauty of the East to the West."

The model attributes her rise to fame to her commitment and hard work. When asked to look ten years into the future, Liu said fashion will always be a part of her DNA.

(CNTV December 19, 2011)