Hong Kong-based model-actress Jamie Xia, 26, uses her own tupperware containers for takeaways and never uses a straw when drinking beverages outside.

She has become more conscious of her plastic use since starring as DBS relationship manager Claire Lee in the bank's online mini-series DBS Sparks.

Now in its second season, the series is based on true stories of social enterprises which are supported by DBS, such as Bettr Barista Coffee Academy, which trains underprivileged youth and women, and Remakehub, a fashion company which reduces waste through creative upcycling.

The 10 episodes of season one have garnered more than 250 million views so far and won a number of global marketing accolades, including a Silver Award at The Shorty Awards last year, an annual award by a New York-based technology start-up of the same name, which recognises the best short-form content on social media.

DBS Sparks is Xia's first long-term acting project.

"Making myself cry was challenging as I had to really dampen my emotions and get into a mental state I don't regularly enter," she told The Straits Times.

"On top of that, there were so many people watching and surrounding me.

"But I think it really helped that I was so comfortable with my fellow cast and crew members as I felt that I was in a safe space to express such deep emotions," she added.

Previously, the American model-actress was a host at Fox Movies and acted in television commercials.

She acted alongside veteran Singapore theatre actors Adrian Pang and Tan Kheng Hua in the DBS mini-series.

Said Xia: "It's exciting as I never expected to be able to work alongside such experienced and renowned people in the business.Read More – Source