Crowned Singapore’s Sportsman of the Year at the Singapore Disability Sports Awards 2019, Diroy’s successes in Para-sports has put Singapore on the map. With a slew of awards under his belt, including a Silver and Bronze at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix in the javelin and shot putt events, Diroy has achieved far more in life than many of us. Yet this successful athlete and graphic designer never lets his success get the better of him. His humble and unassuming nature hides a steely grit and determination to keep learning and to keep doing the best that he can.

What was a high point in your life and why?

Graduating from TP School of Design, my dream school and taking the course that I wanted was a great experience for me. I learned a great deal from meeting and working with different people. Other than at school or work, I have been training hard to improve myself in Paralympic sports. What I like most about being a Paralympic athlete is being able to travel the world gaining skills, experience, confidence, and discipline.

What’s the most important lesson you learned here in TP DES?

I’ve learned skills in Design of course, in terms of visual communication, but more importantly, my time here taught me a few things; such as how important it is to work hard to get something you want, to be brave and  strong, pushing yourself to do your best and most of all, to never give up.

What are your future goals in life? In other words, what do you want to be when you grow up?

I guess what’s important is to be a good person, be an example to others to be good. I am inspired to help others, to stay healthy, fit and happy. In life, to always do my best.

What do you love most about design?

With design, you can create anything. Design helps you explore your creativity and allows you to help others. Through design, you can solve different problems and issues. I also think design is not always visible; it is something that not everyone can see.

Why did you choose to do design as a course?

Well, I always loved to draw, to design and create. Design was a way for me to help others and to help myself. I’ve always wanted to learn how to communicate better. Through design and the training it gives in terms of visual thinking, ideas, concepts, processes, I think I have learned a great deal in communication skills.

Any message for our current students?

If you think you’re not naturally creative, be prepared to work hard until you get there. Whatever you do, don’t forget to help others who need more help. Always give your best, without expecting anything in return.