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At the 2026 National Day Rally, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong shared the stories of three Singaporeans whose paths were far from straightforward.
Ervin Han spent more than a decade working towards The Violinist, adapting his plans through repeated setbacks. Shaik Nifael Nazeemuddin left school at 17 and began by cleaning grease traps. He learnt the trade, took on more responsibility and eventually built a waste management business. Sheila Khoo struggled in school and experienced bullying. Her interest in Japanese later led her to translation work, where she began to recognise her strengths. With support from lecturers and friends, she returned to education and graduated as a valedictorian at Republic Polytechnic. She is set to study computer science at NTU on a full scholarship. Read the National Day Rally speech.
As someone who works with children and youths with different learning and developmental needs, Sheila’s story stayed with me. Her achievements deserve to be celebrated. So does the support that helped her find a path that worked for her.
For parents and educators, these stories are a reminder to look beyond a child’s present difficulties. A child who is struggling at school may need time, a different approach, or someone who notices an interest that others have overlooked. We cannot know exactly where their path will lead, but we can listen, offer practical support and keep opportunities open.
Ervin, Shaik and Sheila took different routes. Their stories remind us that where a person starts does not decide how far they can go—and that standing by one another can make a real difference along the way.
Cheers Learning