Once labelled as an “outstanding student” for always standing outside the classroom as punishment, Jun Yang’s path to success was anything but conventional.

Today, he stands out for a different reason — as a turnaround kid, who despite facing multiple rejections for his diploma applications and numerous encounters with disciplinary issues, has achieved academic success.

Jun Yang had dreamed of pursuing a diploma in Big Data & Analytics, after discovering the infinite world of data through online videos. The turning point came when Jun Yang stepped into his first class at Temasek Polytechnic (TP). Surrounded by many self-driven peers and reminded of his parents’ tireless sacrifices which he had taken for granted, Jun Yang made a choice to rewrite his story.

From then on, he started living by a quote that defined his view towards life:

“You can't choose the cards you're dealt with in life, but you can choose what to do with them.”

Jun Yang worked hard to earn his spot on the Director’s List and was awarded the TP Scholarship for three consecutive years, emerging as the top student in the School of Informatics & IT. He also won multiple awards from hackathons and competitions such as the Tableau + Movies Hackathon 2023, and secured Gold at the SUSS Advanced Analytics Competition.

Jun Yang’s internship at Oracle provided a breakthrough experience, where he participated in building an analytics application used across the Asia Pacific region. This built his confidence in the real-world impact of his skills and spurred him on to do more. Jun Yang also collaborated with the Halogen Foundation to conduct office tours for secondary school students at Oracle.

Early academic struggles instilled in Jun Yang a deep empathy for others facing similar challenges, inspiring him to become a peer learning mentor. He ran mentorship and career guidance workshops in his secondary school, where he shared his personal journey and helped students understand the available post-secondary pathways.

Beyond campus, he volunteers with the Singapore Computer Society to help seniors bridge the digital divide, supports grassroots efforts to aid displaced individuals, distributes essentials to residents through Community Centre Volunteering and participates in Big Data & Analytics Student Interest Group’s inclusive events like the Mooncake Festival with SG Enable.

Today, Jun Yang aspires to harness the power of data to create social impact. No longer the boy standing outside his class, Jun Yang now stands tall as an outstanding inspiration to others. 

For Xu Cong, Formula 1 isn’t just about speed — it’s about the science behind it. His dream is to engineer the cars of tomorrow: faster, safer, and more sustainable. At home, he lives out this passion through racing simulations, where he fine-tunes car setups and tests race strategies, turning a personal interest into a hands-on engineering experience.

But his journey didn’t begin on the fast track. Xu Cong once struggled with chemistry until a dedicated teacher sparked a curiosity that led him to Temasek Polytechnic’s (TP) Chemical Engineering course. There, he found his stride, excelling in both the scientific and mathematical rigour of the programme.

Learning for Xu Cong went far beyond the classroom.  From operating a chemical pilot plant, to interning in aircraft component repairs and lab testing, he thrived in hands-on environments — all while fuelling his long-term ambition of applying these skills to motorsports.

Outside academics, Xu Cong is a leader with heart.  His leadership is most evident in his extensive community service efforts. As President of the Applied Science Studies Club, Xu Cong spearheaded numerous initiatives, bringing students together to serve the wider community. He led a successful collaboration for the Applied Science (ASC) Healthy Lifestyle Week with TP’s Informatics & IT Studies Club and SōngHè. The partnership resulted in a donation of 490kg of rice to the charity Food from the Heart.

One of his proudest achievements was facilitating ASCares 2025. The large-scale community outreach event was instrumental in engaging 1,200 residents in Punggol through science-based workshops and physical challenges aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle. In addition, he oversaw the ASC A-Guides Camp and Open House 2025, managing over 100 student volunteers effectively.

Leadership did not come naturally for Xu Cong. He faced moments of self-doubt and uncertainty, however, with the support of mentors and peers, he learnt to lead with authenticity, built trust, and guided others with confidence. In recognition of his contributions, Xu Cong has received several accolades, including the CCA Merit Award for Leadership, the Daisy Phay TP Foundation Scholarship, and the ACI (Singapore Chapter) Scholarship.

Xu Cong’s journey exemplifies how passion for learning can go hand-in-hand with social impact. He plans to pursue a Chemical Engineering degree, with his sights set on the motorsport sector, particularly in developing lightweight, recyclable materials that enhance race car performance and reduce environmental impact.

For Theodora, information technology (IT) was not her first love –but she grew to embrace it with passion and purpose.

When she did not qualify for the Polytechnic Foundation Programme (PFP) following her GCE ‘N’ levels, Theodora had to forgo her aspiration to pursue a business course and found herself choosing between Engineering and IT at the Institute of Technical Education (ITE).

With no background nor inclination for the subject, Theodora took it on with humility and grit. Motivated by the support from her lecturers and peers, she began to uncover the power of IT solutions in addressing real-world challenges. This revelation sparked a hidden passion that culminated in her decision to pursue a Diploma in Information Technology at Temasek Polytechnic.

She counts being awarded the Temasek Polytechnic Scholarship for three consecutive years among her proudest achievements — a testament of her academic excellence and exemplary character, and something she never imagined possible when she first began her journey.

Encouraging more women to step into the world of IT is something Theodora cares deeply about. She was a member of the Outreach Committee for the Girls-in-Tech (Cross-Polytechnic) student group, where she spearheaded engagement sessions with secondary schools to encourage more young women to explore opportunities in tech. She also served as President of the Information Technology Student Interest Group (ITSIG) which participated in meaningful initiatives, such as a volunteering programme at Willing Hearts to support low-income families. Her active involvement in student life has honed her leadership and interpersonal skills.

Securing an internship at DBS’ cybersecurity department further cemented her goal to build a career in the tech industry. She aspires to pursue a role that blends technology with business, where she can create innovative and user-centric solutions.

Coming from a single-parent household, Theodora remains motivated by her desire to be financially independent and to give back to her family, especially her grandmother whose advice to “be humble” has anchored her during challenging times and shaped her values.

Beyond academic fulfilment, TP’s caring yet dynamic environment has empowered Theodora’s inquisitive nature. She has learnt to approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset, and to assess opportunities that align with her personal growth and societal contribution. With Theodora’s determination and deep belief in technology's transformative potential, she stands ready to make meaningful contributions to both the industry and the broader community.

With an insatiable curiosity and unwavering drive to push beyond limits, Titus exemplifies the spirit of a future-ready innovator.

Fuelled by his passion, Titus has transformed his room into a fully equipped electronics lab, allowing him to explore intricate systems and create competition-level projects from scratch.

From his early days of self-taught programming to entering the dynamic learning environment at Temasek Polytechnic (TP), Titus never failed to impress those around him with his drive and relentless pursuit of growth. This is reflected in his accolades of excelling at 13 competitions, 24 out of 24 distinctions in his coursework, and his service as President of the Engineering Makers Club.

Solving real-world problems through his innovative thinking is what motivates Titus the most. He successfully led his team to develop the "MRI Prep Simulator" for a local hospital. This multi-year, cross-disciplinary project eventually progressed to the testing and evaluation stages to demonstrate its potential for real-world application in improving patient care and experience.

Beyond campus, Titus represented TP and Singapore in regional and national competitions. He was part of the team that won Gold at the Shell Eco-marathon Asia-Pacific and Middle East Regional Race in Indonesia with a hydrogen fuel cell-powered car. At the HTX Singapore HacX 2024 Competition, his team stood out as the only Polytechnic team among the Top 10 finalists - earning him an internship offer with HTX's Human Factors and Simulation Centre of Expertise.

With a strong belief in empowering the next generation, he conducted STEM workshops, mentored secondary school students through outreach programmes. He took the initiative to coach his peers and juniors to gear them for engineering competitions such as Lockheed Martin’s Code Quest.

Titus' deep interest in embedded systems, digital electronics, and AI was further developed during his AI Engineering internship at the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA), where he previously received the prestigious DSTA Polytechnic Digital Scholarship. He plans to further his studies in integrated circuits, computer systems, and cross-disciplinary scientific research and development.

As he looks to the future, his aspiration is clear: To push the frontiers of technology, creating solutions that are not only cutting-edge but purposeful — guided by the belief that success is measured not just by outcomes, but by the journey and the growth it enables.

Xian Xun's childhood visits to the doctor sparked a passion for pharmacy. Fascinated by the healing power of medicine and driven by a desire to make a difference, he pursued a diploma in Pharmaceutical Science at Temasek Polytechnic (TP).

TP's vibrant curriculum ignited Xian Xun's enthusiasm. Through internships, he sharpened his patient interaction skills and gained insight into patients’ needs such as recognising the importance of simplifying medical information for seniors.

Outside of academics, Xian Xun won a Medallion of Excellence at the WorldSkills Singapore 2023 Chemical Lab Technology competition. This experience not only honed his critical thinking skills but also solidified his meticulousness and adaptability in problem-solving.

Xian Xun also demonstrated leadership as President of the Community Service Club. These experiences not only connected him with peers but also instilled in him the value of giving back to the community.

Cheyenne's journey to architectural technology is fuelled by her passion for creating purposeful spaces since her secondary school days.

At Temasek Polytechnic (TP), she honed her skills by blending functionality and aesthetics in projects like redesigning a dementia care facility, where she infused cultural elements for a homier feel. Cheyenne, together with her group mates, designed a sustainable water feature that incorporated microalgae, a natural air purifier and food source, within a central pond at TP, showcasing a unique blend of functionality, and environmental responsibility.

Her technical proficiency was recognised when she clinched a bronze medal in the WorldSkills Singapore 2023 Digital Construction competition, demonstrating her expertise in 3D modelling software and Building Information Modelling (BIM).

At TP, Cheyenne thrived under supportive lecturers, earning accolades like the TP Engineering Scholarship, TP Director's List, and a Course Gold Medal. Beyond academics, she led the Architectural Technology & Building Services (ABS) Club and interned at an architectural firm. 

From a young age, Wai Kit’s love for tinkering with gadgets and building solutions led him to pursue computer engineering at Temasek Polytechnic (TP).

Thriving in TP’s dynamic environment, he constantly pushed his limits. One particularly impactful project was a telehealth device that remotely monitors patients' vital signs in real time. This innovation could revolutionise healthcare by detecting heart and lung issues early.

Beyond studies, Wai Kit gave back to the community, sharing his knowledge by tutoring peers, guiding students during Open House events, and volunteering at a local charity.

His journey wasn't without challenges, like supporting his father through cancer treatment while managing his studies. But he persevered, showing resilience and determination.

Currently awaiting National Service, Wai Kit continues to contribute to projects at TP Healthcare Engineering Centre as a contract staff while mentoring students. He has been offered a place to pursue a Computer Engineering degree at both the National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University, including a scholarship offer from the latter.

Nitish discovered his passion for technology early on, inspired by his father’s adeptness in photography and video editing. Fuelled by a drive to solve problems through software development, he immersed himself in coding via YouTube tutorials, eager to translate ideas into reality.

Building upon the skills acquired in Temasek Polytechnic's mobile application development course, Nitish developed "Transito," a user-friendly bus timing app that prioritises speed and customisation.

His creativity didn't stop there. From a word counter that eliminates citations to a GPA calculator with a humorous twist and a browser extension integrating artificial intelligence for crafting formal emails, he consistently found inventive solutions to everyday matters.

As a leader in the Information Technology Student Interest Group, Nitish spearheaded the development of a resource website for freshmen, demonstrating his leadership and teamwork skills. His influence extended beyond design; he effectively guided the project's development, ensuring its functionality across platforms. His internship at GovTech further honed his abilities, providing invaluable hands-on experience with real-world projects.

After completing her O-levels at Cedar Girls’ School, Ira went to Yishun Innova JC. Unfortunately, her A-level results could not get her a place in the biological sciences degree she wanted to pursue. Undeterred, Ira re-did her A-levels as a private candidate, but once again failed to make the grade.

Unsure about what she could do to pursue an education in biological sciences, Ira took inspiration from her cousin, who had graduated from TP and gone on to attain a Master’s degree. So, with the support of her parents, Ira started her amazing TP adventure as a Biomedical Engineering student, excelling both in and out of the classroom.

From the get-go, Ira stood out as one of the top academic achievers in her course. She was placed in the Director’s List and received the TP Scholarship (Engineering) for all three years of her study. Ira also excelled as a leader - she was the Head of Training (Academic) of the Engineering Peer Mentors, Vice-President of BIOengenes Interest Group, and Class Chairperson for three consecutive years. Ira also participated in the Harvard Business School Club of Singapore Mentorship Programme, and the Temasek LEAD Programme. For her outstanding CCA contributions, Ira also received the CCA Achievement (Bronze) Award, and the CCA Dedication Award. 

The elder of two children, Ira always had a fear of needles. A sickly child who was a frequent visitor to clinics and hospitals, there were many unhappy encounters with needles! Ira recalls a story of one such visit to the hospital, where she screamed so hard that she passed out.

When Darren was in Primary 1, his mother passed away from cancer. He and his older brother were raised by his father, a Senior Systems Engineer who introduced them to computer games and cybersecurity.

Darren’s secondary school education was in the Normal Academic stream at Edgefield Secondary School. There, he was very introverted and unmotivated. Reality only hit him in Secondary 3 when a schoolmate told him that he would never amount to anything.  From then on, Darren worked hard and eventually graduated at the top of his N-level cohort.

He went on to pursue the Common ICT Programme at TP via the Polytechnic Foundation Programme. He later became a PFP Ambassador and a TP Scholar. Together with some of the other scholars, he formed a group called “Thinking Caps” – a mentoring and tutoring initiative to help weaker students.

In Year 2, Darren chose to pursue TP's Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics course because he enjoyed ethical hacking. A recipient of the TP Scholarship in Year 1 & 2, and the DSO Scholarship in Year 3, Darren also went on to lead his team as the President of his course. He headed the Inter-poly 2022 Lag & Crash Movement which consisted of 400 youths from polytechnics, ITEs, JCs, and secondary schools. He took part in competitions, winning Gold for the Cisco APJC Networking Competition, and 1st runner up for both the SMU Law in Tech Competition, and the Pratt and Whitney Hackathon. As a Peer Tutor, Darren also played a key role as facilitator at the Youth Cyber Exploration Programme – a bootcamp for secondary school students.

When his parents separated, Sathish was only 15 years old and left to care for his sickly mother and younger sister. Forced to grow up in a hurry, Sathish worked hard to become the top N-level student at Loyang View Secondary School that year.

Playing to his strengths in Mathematics and Science, Sathish chose to pursue Engineering in TP, through the Polytechnic Foundation Programme (PFP) – a year he describes as: “The best year of my life” – one filled with teachers who were “insanely kind, very motivating”, making the transition from PFP to Year 1 extremely smooth.

In Year 1, he chose to do the Common Engineering programme as he was unsure which Engineering discipline would suit him best. That same year, he was approached to train for the WorldSkills Competition. When he learnt more about the many exciting projects in store as part of the training, Sathish decided to pursue the Electronics discipline in Year 2. He says the training for WorldSkills brutally destroyed his confidence and humbled him as he saw the gap between what he knew and what he needed to learn. This training eventually helped him sail through the rest of his studies in TP.

As a child, Clara’s dream was to be a doctor one day. That dream slid further and further away as she failed science in secondary school and had to be content with a B3 grade for Chemistry and Biology at O-levels. Despite those setbacks, Clara’s strong passion for science pushed her to apply for a biomedical course at a polytechnic. Looking back, she points to the after-school enrichment classes offered by CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls’ School, that piqued her interest in biomedical research.  

The eldest of three daughters, Clara says that her parents have always been very supportive of her decisions, so when she was offered a place in TP which was halfway across the island from home, to study Medical Biotechnology, they gave their blessings.

A recipient of the TP Scholarship, she poured 100% effort into her studies. Despite the Covid lockdown, which saw all classes going online, Clara’s daily routine was a rigorous one, packed with study time and schoolwork from 7am to 12am. It wasn’t all work though. Clara’s involvement with her diploma interest group taught her many hard and soft skills such as event planning, writing newsletters, editing and creating content for the club’s Instagram and Open House. She also undertook two differential research programmes relating to molecular biology and genomic sequencing that year.

While he was disappointed with his unexpected PSLE results, Shaun refused to let them discourage him. He set his mind to start afresh and made sure he always did his best in Loyang View Secondary School. His efforts were rewarded when he graduated as his school’s top O-level student, with a net score of 3 points!

His desire to equip himself with technical skills led Shaun to take the polytechnic route. As he was interested in both Chemistry and Engineering, TP’s Diploma in Chemical Engineering appealed to him. An informative visit to TP’s Open House helped to confirm his choice!

Three years later, Shaun graduates with a cGPA of 3.98. Looking back, he cites three defining experiences in TP—his participation in WorldSkills Singapore (WSS), the NUS Chem-E Challenge 2021 and his CCAs. Shaun has accomplished a feat that very few other students have. He participated in WSS for two consecutive years, and became a two-time Silver medallist in the Water Technology category. “I am competitive, and wanted to win Gold, so when I was asked to participate again, naturally, I agreed,” said Shaun.

True to his life mantra, Muhammad Zaki embraced every opportunity that came his way in TP, so he would not have any regrets. An O-level 7-pointer from Ngee Ann Secondary School, he chose the polytechnic route for its promise of hands-on experiences.

His choice to pursue Computer Engineering came as no surprise as Engineering and IT are two of his biggest passions. Intelligent, conscientious, and independent, Zaki’s TP Scholarship (Engineering) award in his first year was just a sign of good things to come.

Zaki graduates from TP with a perfect cGPA of 4.0! Apart from excelling in his studies, Zaki enjoyed making many new friends from his active involvement in competitions and events. The Lee Hsien Loong Interactive Digital Media Smart Nation Award 2021 and the National Assistive & Rehabilitation Technologies Student Innovation Challenge 2021 are two such memorable competitions. His lecturers describe him as resourceful, innovative and a real-world problem solver. These skills were at the forefront as he led his group on their final-year project titled “Smart Waste Disposal Guard”. This collaboration with the Tampines Town Council applies video analytics and Artificial Intelligence to monitor the cleanliness of the rubbish chute areas at HDB blocks.

Lim Ryan Ryutaro has his sights firmly set on the stars. Actually, one star in particular—our Sun. This future engineering wizard’s ultimate life dream is to build a Dyson Sphere, a hypothetical megastructure that can completely encompass a star and harness a large percentage of its solar power output.

For now though, Ryan is devoting all his time and energy to his passion towards engineering, and use his skill to create products that can help people to recover from their injuries quickly. So certain was he about pursuing a hands-on learning experience, Ryan enrolled into TP's Diploma in Electronics via the Early Admissions Exercise. “I really wanted a place in TP,” said Ryan, who eventually attained 3 points for his O-level exams. Even before coming to TP, Ryan had heard about the WorldSkills competitions, and hoped to participate in it one day.

This focused and determined young man was indeed selected for WorldSkills Singapore (WSS) training and represented TP in the WSS 2021 competition. By applying the mental and technical aspects of his WSS training and combining them with his exceptional problem-solving skills, he clinched the competition’s Silver medal (Electronics Trade)!

Krystal’s father, a Regional IT Senior Manager at Rolls Royce, spearheaded her early start with technology. He would send her tech articles and enrol her in tech bootcamps, forums and symposiums. Her interest in FinTech was piqued in Secondary 1 when Apple Pay saved her day! “Since then, I no longer wanted to be a mere benefiter of tech, but rather to be at the frontiers of setting and leading it,” she said.

Sure of her desire to pursue her passion in technology, Krystal never failed to visit TP’s Open House every year, from Secondary 1 to 4—even though she had already decided on TP’s Diploma in Financial Business Informatics on her second visit!

A highly motivated go-getter, Krystal attended many tech courses beyond what she was learning in TP, and has acquired proficiency in areas like blockchain, machine learning and data analytics. In addition, Krystal took on internships in financial institutions, non-profit organisations, statutory boards and ministries.

Who says there are no second chances in life? Viyshnatulasiy D/O G Manivannen’s life is perfect example of her personal mantra, “difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations.” The 23-year did her A-levels in a JC after completing her O-levels in Dunman Secondary School. When she could not get into NUS, Viyshna took a gap year before starting the Biotechnology course in TP. Looking back at her early days in TP, she says, “I was older than my classmates and felt like a failure, but I just wanted to do my best.”

True to her intent, Viyshna graduates top of her class! Her lecturers describe her as “a very responsible and trustworthy student, a leader who can undertake new responsibilities confidently and can be depended upon to finish assigned tasks to the best of her ability.” Viyshna’s TP experience included a six-month internship at A*STAR’s Immunology department which also confirmed her passion for science research.

Even though he was eligible for the Express stream, Yong Jie opted for the Normal (Academic) stream at Xinmin Secondary School as he was unsure if he could keep up. After his N-levels, he decided on the Polytechnic Foundation Programme at TP, and chose to study Aerospace Engineering as it allowed him to marry his interest in the technical side of aviation, with his passion for science, engineering and mathematics.

Throughout his TP journey, Yong Jie took it upon himself to pick up skills and knowledge in the field of mobile robotics and subsequently represented TP in the Mobile Robotics trade at the WorldSkills Singapore Competition 2020. When his teammate fell ill on the final day of competition, Yong Jie was unfazed and rose to the challenge. He eventually won the Gold medal, impressing the judges with his determination to complete the programming portion of the competition all by himself.

After completing his N-levels in Dunman Secondary School, Teo Zhi Jie joined TP through the Polytechnic Foundation Programme in 2017 and then went on to pursue the Mechatronics course. A recipient of the Micron Foundation Scholarship and two Director's List awards, he graduates with the course Gold medal.

Sheer determination spurred Zhi Jie to achieve impressive grades as well as accomplishments outside the classroom. “At secondary school, whenever alumni returned to speak to us, I realised they were always from the Express stream. I wanted to be the first Normal (Academic) student to return and inspire them,” he says.

So sure was Kenneth about the choice of his course at TP that he secured himself a place in the Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics course via the Early Admissions Exercise. The Ngee Ann Secondary School alumnus is a self-confessed deep-thinker, visual learner and totally passionate about all things cybersecurity and environment.

Kenneth’s TP journey was rich and packed with experiences that saw him pursue his passion for the field. As an A*STAR Science Award recipient, he undertook his internship at the Institute for Infocomm Research. His research for his major project on developing algorithms to extend the capabilities of homomorphic encryption was in fact documented in a conference paper. In 2020, together with his supervisor and another student, Kenneth also published and presented a paper at the Asia Conference on Computers and Communications – a testimony to his calibre in applying technologies to enhance cybersecurity. That same year, he competed in the IT Network Systems and Administration trade at the WorldSkills Singapore Competition and won a Bronze medal.

Felicia’s journey at Temasek Polytechnic (TP) is defined by her drive to make financial literacy accessible and impactful.
As a top student from the Diploma in Accountancy and Finance, she channelled her passion for numbers into real-world applications, to benefit both her peers and the wider community.

Recognising that financial literacy goes beyond money management to also serve as a vital foundation for independence and a peace of mind, Felicia set out to make it accessible for others. She led her capstone project team to develop a fully functional app aimed at helping millennials prepare for elderhood.

With no prior coding experience, the team built the app from scratch — integrating finance, tech, and gerontology to address the long-term needs for an ageing population. The app enabled users to plan their financial goals through a life roadmap while arming them with financial knowledge. Their innovation was well-received by industry partners, who commended its relevance.

Passionate about financial literacy and education, Felicia actively contributed content for “Smart Money Moves,” a podcast produced under CNA Campus by CNA938. She simplified complex financial concepts into engaging, bite-sized segments for public broadcast. What began as a passion grew into a personal mission - to help others build confidence in managing their finances.  She has also conducted engaging, game-based financial literacy sessions in secondary schools under the TP Smart Financial Literacy Initiative, a cause that is close to her heart, having lacked such education herself.

As the President of the Temasek Polytechnic Entrepreneurship Group, Felicia took on the responsibility of leading initiatives to inspire and engage members. She also participated in prestigious competitions, such as the ASEAN Green Entrepreneurship Hackathon and the PolyFinTech100 API Hackathon.

Juggling a demanding academic load with competitions and volunteer work was no easy feat, but for Felicia, overcoming these challenges counts as one of her proudest achievements. Felicia was awarded various accolades including the KPMG Prize, OCBC Bank Prize, RSM Singapore Prize and CIMA Singapore Prize.

Through these experiences, Felicia exemplifies how a strong foundation in accountancy and finance, paired with purpose and initiative, can create a lasting impact. She hopes to continue her journey in higher education and build her own enterprise to make financial literacy more accessible to the next generation.

From building with LEGO as a child to an epiphany during his internship in Bangkok, where he saw how sunlight was a rare luxury - Nathaniel’s passion for architecture has always been rooted in a desire to create spaces that serve people. To him, design is not just about creating structures, but also how thoughtfully designed environments can transform lives.

Through Temasek Polytechnic (TP)’s Diploma in Interior Architecture & Design, Nathaniel found the freedom to explore his creative interests and deepen his understanding of the built environment. At TP, he discovered how architecture can drive social change through adaptive reuse and human-centred design.

This philosophy came to life in projects such as Project Revitalise, where he reimagined public housing in mature estates such as Jalan Dua, to better support the homeless and vulnerable. His internship at the Nang Loeng Community Lab in Bangkok further sharpened this perspective. There, he saw first-hand how something as basic as natural light could be scarce in certain communities, fuelling his aspiration to create spaces that directly address human needs

Nathaniel’s final-year project, Transitional Thresholds, exemplified this vision. He conceptualised the transformation of the old Kallang Airport into a hub for sustainable food practices, preserving its historic grandeur while creating a space for responsible consumption. Outside the classroom, Nathaniel’s volunteer work enriched his approach to design. From supporting Thai students with disabilities in the Art for All campaign, to assisting families in need, these experiences reinforced his commitment to shaping spaces that serve diverse communities.

As Vice President of the Interior Architecture Interest Group and Training Head of TP’s Adventure Club, Nathaniel honed his leadership skills and made a tangible impact on the campus community. His dedication to both personal growth and creative excellence earned him numerous accolades, including the TP Scholarship, multiple placements on the Director’s List, and international recognition from the BLT Built Design Awards and IDA International Design Awards.

What truly sets Nathaniel apart is his relentless drive to grow. He stepped up to speak at notable events like the Harvard Business Mentorship Programme and Young Architects Meet.

What began at TP — where he was empowered to create the future, has become a lifelong mission to design a better, more inclusive world.

A student with a big heart for impact, Xin Ping discovered her passion for special needs education through her course of study at Temasek Polytechnic (TP).

Having worked with the vulnerable and special needs community, Xin Ping realised the importance of creating an inclusive environment, where everyone, regardless of their abilities, could thrive. Her journey began at SpedGrow, a start-up incubated at the Temasek Launchpad, where she first worked as a facilitator conducting financial literacy workshops for individuals with special needs.

Her dedication and initiative led her to an internship role, where she took on various responsibilities in curriculum planning and training facilitation. This further ignited her passion to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

One of Xin Ping’s most significant achievements was her final year project in collaboration with KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH). Together with her team, she developed 31 VR-based scenarios to teach adolescents with special needs essential social skills - ranging from understanding humour to reading body language. Such tailored approaches that blend psychology-based insights with immersive VR experiences, allowed individuals to engage in realistic social scenarios that gradually built their confidence and abilities to respond.

Her desire to create meaningful impact goes beyond the classroom. Since 2022, Xin Ping regularly volunteers at the Nee Soon South Youth Network’s Homework Café where she and her team spearheaded structured tuition programmes to help underprivileged children strengthen their English and Maths foundation. She also rallied a tight-knit volunteer team to mentor students from less privileged backgrounds.

As an active member of the Nee Soon South Youth Network, Xin Ping also co-led and planned “Escape Your CC!”, an Amazing Race-style event that engaged over 50 residents through community bonding and family-friendly challenges, while overseeing publicity efforts for other major community events such as the Nee Soon Pets Fiesta 2024, achieving an attendance of up to 5000 participants.

Her dedication to service and learning is matched by a strong academic track record, having placed on the Director’s List for both AY2022 and AY2023, and awarded the Edusave Certificate of Academic Achievement in 2023 and 2024.

Xin Ping’s achievements are a testament to her resilience, compassion, and a clear sense of purpose. While balancing multiple commitments, she continues to push forward with heart. As she sets her sights on further studies in psychology, specialising in education, Xin Ping is ready to shine even brighter and make a lasting impact in the social service sector.

Xavier’s pursuit of the study of law is one of grit and resilience. A self-professed troublemaker in secondary school, Xavier hung out with the wrong crowd and neglected his studies. He would never have imagined that an internship with a local law firm in Secondary 3 would change the trajectory of his life. While the internship only lasted through his school holidays, it seeded in him a passion and interest to pursue law.

This spurred Xavier to apply for early admission to Temasek Polytechnic (TP)’s Diploma in Law and Management. However, it was unsuccessful and would be the first of three failed attempts to apply for the law diploma.

Undeterred and refusing to give up on his aspiration for the legal industry, Xavier submitted an appeal through the Direct Admission Exercise. Finally, he succeeded on his fourth try and was matriculated into TP’s Common Business Programme.

Xavier cherished the opportunity and studied hard in the first year of Common Business Programme, and finally enrolled for the Diploma in Law and Management. Not forgetting his initial struggles, Xavier volunteered in his second year to share his experience of CBP with his juniors, offering them encouragement, and insights into the law diploma.

Joyce's fashion journey stemmed from a lifelong passion ignited by TV programmes during childhood like 'Project Runway' and 'Say Yes to The Dress'. Joyce pursued the polytechnic route through the Early Admission Exercise (EAE), fuelled by her deep-seated love for fashion. Enrolling in Temasek Polytechnic's School of Design Diploma in Apparel Design and Merchandising signified the commencement of Joyce’s journey.

During her time at Temasek Polytechnic (TP), Joyce discovered immense joy in the design process, from ideation to execution. She fully immersed herself, particularly during photoshoots, meticulously coordinating every detail to craft captivating end products. Engaging in diverse projects and collaborations with peers from varying backgrounds enriched her experience and fostered meaningful connections.

Within her TP community, Joyce found invaluable support within the Design Studies Club (DSC), where friendships evolved into pillars of strength amidst challenges. Leading the DSC as President and serving as Camp Commandant showcased her leadership prowess and dedication to community-building.

Having triumphed over her personal challenges, Zi Yue came to understand the importance of mental health, which ignited her interest in the field of psychology, leading her to pursue a diploma in Psychology Studies at Temasek Polytechnic (TP).

Zi Yue’s interest in the field, coupled with TP’s dynamic and hands-on curriculum, allowed her to thrive during her academic journey, earning her a spot on the Director’s List throughout her studies between 2021 to 2024.

Beyond coursework, Zi Yue also demonstrated her leadership abilities as an executive committee member of the Community Service Club. As an advocate for inclusion, she led and organised Project This Ability 2022, a befriending programme for adults with intellectual disabilities.

In recognition of her contributions, Zi Yue was awarded the International Women’s Forum Education Grant for her academic excellence, community work, and empathy for the less fortunate, and the CCA Merit Award (Leadership) in 2023.

Hailing from Nan Chiau High School, Tan Jia Min was expected to take the JC route, because she attained exceptional O-level results. But the younger of two daughters, took the bold step of following her heart and re-submitted her JAE application, with TP’s Diploma in Communication Design as her 1st choice. She says, “This is definitely one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life.”

Jia Min always enjoyed Art, so she took it as a subject in school. Creativity runs in her family with a mum who doodles cartoon characters and a sister, who also pursued the Communication Design course in TP. Jia Min’s innate passion for the Arts was insatiable. From pestering her sister, Jasmine, to teach her new design applications, to watching YouTube videos, she often went above and beyond the work expected of her. While Year 1 was mainly spent at home because of the covid lockdown, Jia Min was already being talent-spotted and approached by her lecturers to take on small design projects. 

In Year 2, she competed and won bronze for two renowned competitions - WorldSkills Singapore 2021, Graphic Design Technology category, and the Japan Graphic Design Association International Student Poster Award 2021. The sole awardee from Southeast Asia, her work stood out among over 3000 entries, and was showcased in both Japan and Macau. In 2022, Jia Min competed in the Indigo Design Awards for publication and UI/UX projects and clinched a total of three Silvers and two Bronzes. The exposure and accolades coupled with her lecturer’s belief in her abilities, spurred Jia Min’s confidence and passion even further. 

Often described as a polished orator and an excellent communicator, Fazlur’s educational journey took an unusual route as he first entered Catholic Junior College via the Direct School Admissions Exercise through his strong showing in oratorical competitions. He enjoyed three months in JC before a tear in his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) started acting up.

It was also around this time that Fazlur realised that he did not really enjoy the subjects he was studying at A Levels and wanted to pursue a course related to Law instead. With that, he decided to enrol into TP’s Law & Management course. 

Fazlur’s ACL injury and subsequent surgery did not stop him from participating fully in poly life. He was appointed into the main committee of LawInc, the Law & Management Interest Group and later elected as Vice-President. Together with his committee, they ran some 13 events during the year.

In Year 3, Fazlur ran for TP Students’ Union as he realised that he wanted to interact with students from other Schools in TP. Elected as Welfare Secretary, Fazlur looked out for the welfare of the TP student body by negotiating collaborations with external organisations. The list of school-wide projects Fazlur organised are extensive:  #TPCandidConvos, Freshman Orientation, Open House, and the TPSU Annual General Meeting — just to name a few.

Amelia has always excelled academically. An only child, she went to Cedar Girls’ Secondary School and was in the triple science class. Always known to be one who is validated by her academic achievements, Amelia surprised teachers and relatives alike, when she decided to take the polytechnic route after the O-levels.

A voracious reader from a young age, she began reading non-fiction books from the time she was in Primary 5. She was drawn to psychology-related topics like mental health. So, it was no surprise that she opted to enrol into TP’s Psychology Studies course via the Early Admissions Exercise.

When the COVID pandemic forced classes to go online, Amelia took this in her stride; her experience at secondary school having taught her to study independently. A confident and independent learner, Amelia would catch up with reading her textbooks on public transport – “If I’m sitting down, I have time to read,” she says. It was no surprise that she aced her studies and was on the Director’s list, and a recipient of the TP Scholarship. Year 1 also saw Amelia join CCAs like 10-Pin Bowling and TP Toastmasters. She also was an active member of the Psychology Studies Interest Group.

Rooms instantly light up when Valli walks in—it's no wonder she’s a valedictorian. Her energy is infectious. Her charisma is through the roof. Her hunger for success pushes us to the edge of our seats! These attributes make everything about her, and around her, brighter.

"I’m all about making people happy—when they feel good, I feel good," says Valli.

Her love for Principles of Accounts was sparked in secondary school and she continued to pursue it in Higher NITEC. Doing exceptionally well with a cGPA of 3.94 landed her in TP’s Diploma in Accountancy & Finance. She continued to excel in her studies and maintained her perfect streak—graduating with an outstanding 4.0 cGPA!

Valli represented TP as a member of the Student Council of the Citi Foundation-SMU Financial Literacy Programme, where she was actively involved in planning SMU Financial Literacy courses for polytechnic and ITE students. Valli also contributed to the promotion of national events such as Fin Lit Hackathon 2021 and MyMoney@Campus. For her strong CCA contributions, Valli received the CCA Dedication Award at the Temasek Student Excellence Awards 2021.

Ian Goh was one of just 20 Victoria School students selected for the Art Elective Programme, and took Higher Art from secondary one. Writing and drawing are the two things he enjoys most. Doing these in the art studio, surrounded by like-minded people, was where Ian was happiest. Talking about the “Victoria Spirit” brings a smile to his face, especially when he recalls the two tutors he looked up to most for guidance—his Higher Art teacher, Ms Lee Jia Ying, and Aesthetics & Design Head of Department, Mr Heng Swee Kiang.

Where most of his peers headed to Junior College, he followed his passion and joined TP’s Diploma in Interior Architecture & Design. Although he initially struggled with the technical fundamentals during his first year, Ian remained positive, and consistently put in his best effort. Rediscovering his happy place again in the studio, he thrived, improved his grades, and deservedly earned his spot on the Director's List twice!

To Lukas, art is a form of self-expression, a type of “magic that people can appreciate.”

Indeed, it was taking a Higher Art core subject in secondary school that further developed his love for the abstract, artsy world. This, coupled with the desire to seek original and creative solutions to the wicked problems of the world prompted him to join TP’s Diploma in Product & Industrial Design course. There, he was instantly attracted to the elements and foundations of his diploma as it reminded him of how he loved to take things apart and put them back together during his childhood days.

Performing strongly academically from day one in TP, Lukas’s aesthetic eye, sense of curiosity and his ability to connect the dots between user and design outcomes has resulted in consistently sterling work that culminated in his Major Project which wowed the media at the recent Design Show 2022. His desire to create something that would be useful for the ongoing pandemic resulted in “Aegis” – a prototype of a self-sanitising material that changes colour after being contaminated by touch. He plans to use the material on the common areas of public transport such as poles, handles and leaning panels.

Growing up watching her parents navigate the world of business and finance, it was no wonder that Cerlynn pursued the diploma in Business at TP. She was also attracted to the idea of hands-on learning through real-world projects and the internship opportunities.

Playing basketball at Anglican High School, Cerlynn had opportunities to travel abroad for tournaments. Her travels sparked her interest in world economics, as she found herself immersed in new cultures and experiences. Driven and focused, in TP, she secured the Temasek Polytechnic Freshmen and Kelly Services Scholarships. Outside of class, she took on various leadership roles as Class Representative and Class Sports Representative. She was also a member of TP-IPRS Student Chapter, which allowed her to delve deep into her passion for public relations, organising events and industry visits that provided eye-opening and enriching experiences for herself and members of the Chapter.

Keisia’s love for food comes from her maternal Peranakan roots. Growing up in a household that is constantly cooking and baking, the Culinary & Catering Management (CCM) top student found herself drawn to the culinary life very early on. A trip to Paris that exposed her to new pastries became a defining moment in her culinary pursuits.

Her flair for the arts extend even beyond her culinary skills—the CHIJ Katong Convent alumna excelled in choir and drama as well. On weekends though, she would bake and sell cakes to friends and family. Joining the CCM course at TP was not only natural, it allowed her to expand her skills and boosted her confidence even more.

Yoda’s famous words are those that top Psychology Studies graduate Ian Soh lives by, always motivating himself to do his best.

His keen interest in working with people was stirred when he served as president of the Student Council in Nan Chiau High School and organised multiple events, meeting and working with new faces all the time. He got curious to learn how people think and their motivations; and this eagerness to understand at a deeper level got him to embark on the psychology route. 

“There are few things more liberating in life than having your worst fear realised.” is a quote Wilson holds close to his heart.

It best encapsulates his academic journey, especially after failing to qualify for the Polytechnic Foundation Programme after N-Levels. Disheartened yet not defeated, it was a wake-up call for Wilson that set him on a path towards success.

Encouraged by his lecturer at the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), Wilson’s journey took a transformative turn – he pushed himself not only academically but also nurtured his strengths in public speaking and leadership skills. His hard work paid off when he emerged as the Top Graduate in the School of Electronics and Info-Comm Technology.

Having found his footing in computer engineering, he thrived in Temasek Polytechnic (TP).  Fuelled by his two personal “gives” - to give his all academically and to give back to society, he seized every opportunity to grow. With the guidance of dedicated mentors, Wilson grew both in confidence and capability, deepening his mastery of computer engineering through the rigorous coursework and competitions.

One breakthrough was the “Rehabilitation Support Exerciser” (RSE) project, an innovative system developed to support elderly individuals undergoing knee rehabilitation. It features a 3D-printed knee brace loaded with sensors and AI, mobile app game, and a web portal. Recognising the physical and emotional challenges of recovery, Wilson and his team set out to create a more empowering rehabilitation experience that encouraged seniors to continue exercising. The project garnered national acclaim, winning multiple competitions including the Lee Hsien Loong IDM Smart Nation Award 2024

Outside of school, Wilson carries the same resolve with him in his volunteer work through the PA-TP Community Leadership Programme. He collaborated with fellow members to initiate and organise a welfare pack distribution programme for students, spreading TP’s culture of care during exam seasons.

From academic setbacks to creating real-world solutions, Wilson’s journey is proof that with the right mindset and support, failure can be a powerful opportunity for growth.

Matthew never thought that he would be so enamoured of mechatronics. After graduating from secondary school, Matthew had set his mind on being an accountant. However, he was quickly derailed from that goal when he did not qualify for the course. Instead, he ventured into mechatronics, learned the ins and outs of coding, automation, 3D printing and the like, and the rest was history.

As President of the Engineering Makers Club, he oversaw community and school-wide initiatives. Matthew came in as a finalist at the WorldSkills Singapore last year, outperforming other students in Mechatronics. With that, he will advance to the prestigious international WorldSkills Competition in Lyon, France this year.

A talented maker, Matthew produces his very own electronic creations in his free time, with his latest product being a remote-controlled hand dryer, boasting different speed settings to combat his issue of sweaty palms.

Looking ahead, Matthew will be pursuing an electronic engineering degree at a local university. Admitting that he often lagged academically in secondary school, Matthew is glad to have developed his own way of learning over time. Armed with grit, Matthew aspires to start his own business and impart the future generation with the knowledge and passion of engineering.

Soar and shine bright as the sun – that was Alexander’s grandmother’s wish for him when she gave him his Chinese name.

Alexander had a happy childhood. But all that changed when he turned 16 as his grandmother who was his pillar of strength passed away on his birthday. That same week, the family learned that his father had an aggressive liver cancer. Four months later, his father passed on, just as the O-levels were commencing.

Devastated, Alexander did not do well. He decided to take the ITE route and studied Biotechnology. With his love of science and the help of caring lecturers, Alexander graduated top of his class, and was awarded the Lee Kuan Yew Gold Medal. He also received the Lee Hsien Loong Outstanding All-Round Achievement award during his time at ITE East.

Eager to pursue TP’s diploma in medical biotechnology, Alexander gained admission via the Early Admissions Exercise. Having seen how his uncle lived with Down’s Syndrome and how Alzheimer’s had ravaged his grandfather, he wanted to become a biotechnology researcher; one who could help people with Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Down’s Syndrome.

During his first semester at ITE College Central’s Higher Nitec in Event Management, Chase Lim Shi You surprised himself when he achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA. In ITE, he also met Mr Nisantha Fernando, a passionate and caring lecturer who imparted many life lessons, and encouraged him to go after his dreams.

Chase’s good grades opened many doors for him. One of them was competing in the Singapore MICE Challenge organised by SACEOS (Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers). Even though his team didn’t win, Chase felt a sense of achievement for the first time in his life. It motivated him to grab every opportunity that came his way. Through determination and sheer hard work, the once goofy, clumsy and forgetful boy in secondary school, transformed into a confident young man.

Josiah Tham was devastated when he could not get a place in TP via the Polytechnic Foundation Programme. He lost his motivation to study, but went on to pursue a Higher Nitec in Electronics Engineering at ITE Central, on his father’s advice. There, he met his lecturer Mr Lim Ee Hai, whose belief in him spurred him on.

Due to an unfortunate accident, Josiah was forced to take up an in-house internship, a turning point that led to him realise his real passion for electronics. It was then that he took the opportunity to participate in the Lee Kuan Yew Technology Competition. Mentored by Mr Lim, he gained confidence in his knowledge and in public speaking, and eventually won the coveted top award.

K-Ron’s journey at Temasek Polytechnic (TP) is a compelling testament to the transformative power of opportunity, resilience, and personal growth.  Entering TP with modest expectations of simply doing well enough to qualify for university, he quickly discovered a vibrant and enriching student life filled with far more possibilities than he had hoped for.

Courageous and driven by a deep sense of service, K-Ron saved a grandmother’s life during a fire while serving his National Service — an act that earned him the SCDF Community Lifesaver Award. It is this strong drive and determination that fuels his academic and community pursuits.

Having previously struggled academically, K-Ron now draws motivation from those early setbacks, determined to grow, and reclaim lost time. Upon joining TP, K-Ron embraced the rigour and diversity of his course. His decision to enrol in the Diploma in Business Process & System Engineering was influenced by its unique structure, offering multi-disciplinary skill sets in technical, business, and analytical thinking – all of which would prepare him for an increasingly complex and evolving job market.

K-Ron was a TP Scholar (Engineering), consistently placed on Director’s List, and was the champion of TP's Engineering Public Speaking Competition 2023. His accolades extend beyond the campus. He was also awarded the Outstanding Delegate award at the 2024 Singapore Model United Nations’ Conference. His passion for learning and development also opened the door to a wide range of opportunities, including the ENGenius Programme, the Temasek LEAD Excel Global Engagement Study Trip, and as a youth leader promoting social cohesion.

Within the TP community, K-Ron has been a familiar face in both student leadership and interest groups. He served as Managing Editor of the Engineering Studies Club (ESC), and Vice-President of the Business Process & Systems Engineering Interest Group. Under his leadership, ESC executed several key initiatives — from adapting school-wide policies on green sustainability to co-organising charity events with Tampines Changkat Community Club.

K-Ron’s diverse efforts are guided by a larger aspiration — to positively impact Singapore through public service and inclusive policymaking. Upon graduation, he intends to pursue further studies before joining the Singapore Police Force under a uniformed scholarship awarded by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Portia’s journey is one of grit, grace, and relentless drive. Once an academically struggling student in primary and secondary school, she now graduates as the Valedictorian of Temasek Polytechnic’s Class of 2025 (Diploma in Business) and by the age of 20, had already founded two ventures.

Driven by a passion for entrepreneurship, Portia co-founded Resurrack, a vintage clothing business during her time at TP. What began as a weekend side hustle evolved into a physical store and, eventually, a bustling weekend marketplace where Gen Zs and millennials shop, connect, and co-create. Resurrack is now incubated at the Temasek Launchpad where it receives support, mentorship and guidance.

Portia’s entrepreneurial spark was further ignited during a six-month internship in Vietnam, where she joined a travel start-up under the Global Entrepreneurial Internship Programme. Through such TP experiences, she honed her skills in business development, marketing, and people management. This inspired her to co-found Elevents, a youth-focused event agency that transforms underutilised spaces into vibrant, purposeful experiences, which helped scale Resurrack into the thriving marketplace it is today.

Despite juggling multiple ventures, Portia consistently earned a place on the Director’s List Her stellar performance was recognised with accolades including the Max Lewis Scholarship, the PERSOLKELLY Course Silver Medal, the Singapore Yolanda Prize, as well as the honour of being named Valedictorian of her cohort.

Outside the classroom, Portia leads with rhythm and heart. As Head of the Hip Hop Division in TP’s Dance Ensemble (TPDE), she played a central role in major events — as dancer, choreographer, and organiser. This includes the TPDE Induction Camp, Tapestry MOVE Dance Concert, TP Open House 2023, and GEM 2023 Concert. As Dance Captain of the TPDE’s Super 24 team, she led them through rigorous training to clinch victory at the nationwide dance championship.

From overcoming academic hurdles to entrepreneurial success, Portia’s story is one of transformation. As she sets her sights on university, she remains committed to scaling her ventures — guided by empathy and the drive to create meaningful impact.

Rifat’s interest in the world of business began early, inspired by her parents' entrepreneurial spirit in running a home-based catering business. Witnessing their innovation and hard work sparked her interest in business operations, fuelling her ambition in entrepreneurship.

Despite encountering academic hurdles in secondary school, Rifat's determination led her to Temasek Polytechnic through the Early Admission Exercise. Encouraged by her father, she pursued a Diploma in Business, specialising in International Business and Entrepreneurship, seizing every opportunity for hands-on learning.

Her active involvement during her internship at Agrida Pte Ltd and participation in the Polytechnic Forum, showcased Rifat's commitment to practical education and community engagement.

Supported by her family, Rifat navigated her polytechnic years with resilience, excelling in leadership roles as President of the Entrepreneurship Club and Deputy President of the Toastmasters Club. Her initiatives, from financial literacy workshops to public speaking events, aimed to empower her peers.

Quentin’s passion for positive social impact was nurtured from a young age.

His studies in psychology at Temasek Polytechnic (TP), particularly the global studies module, provided him with firsthand experience in the transformative power of community involvement. Collaborating with Voices of Singapore, he organised events that brought joy to intellectually disabled youth, deepening his understanding of diverse expressions and belonging.

Leadership and teamwork are second nature to Quentin, evident in his sporting journey. Captaining the TP Table Tennis team, Quentin fostered a culture of motivation and teamwork, culminating in their triumphant victory at the POLITE Championship in 2022, the first in over eight years. His dedication earned him the title of Polite Champion 2022 along with the Full Colours and Half Colour Awards. It also reinforced his belief in the power of sports to unite and inspire.

Volunteering at Harvest Care Centre and with Special Olympics, Quentin witnessed the power of sports in building confidence and inclusivity. He further strengthened his commitment to this cause by obtaining additional certifications to better serve those with intellectual disabilities.

Floorball enthusiast and triple science student Lim Jie Ying applied for a place in TP’s Biomedical Engineering course as her first choice after finishing her ‘O’ Levels at Meridian Secondary School.

As nimbly as she controlled the ball on the court, Jie Ying effortlessly juggled her academic work and her CCA commitments as Quartermaster for TP’s Floorball team. Her fierce passion for the game helped her lead the TP Women’s Floorball team to a Gold medal in the POL-ITE Games. In recognition of her sportsmanship, talent and dedication, Jie Ying also received the Peter Lim scholarship in Year 2. Mindful of keeping the balance between sports and studies, Jie Ying said, “I always did my best in my studies so that my parents would not worry.”

Life in Year 3 became extremely challenging for Jie Ying as not only was she competing in POL-ITE Games, but she was also Captain of the Singapore Women’s Under-19 team which competed in the Asia Oceania Floorball Confederation Cup where they came in 5th, and in the Jeju Open International Floorball Championships where her team took 3rd placing.

Anglo-Chinese School (Barker Road) student Lee Wen Siang’s love for words was evident in secondary school, where he excelled in the Humanities. Discouraged from taking up rugby by his parents, Wen Siang explored Debate as a CCA, his rationale being that debate was a form of rugby but in words. While initially overawed and scared, the exposure to multiple competitions grew his confidence until eventually, he was elected President of the Debating Society. Additionally, Wen Siang also served in the Student Council.

After his ‘O’ Levels, Wen Siang spent a year in junior college before he finally gained admission into TP’s Law & Management course. Initially, Wen Siang decided to go full throttle with his studies and did not want to be involved with CCA. But when the Covid lockdown occurred at the start of Year 1, only clubs like Debate were open online so he joined, “not out of choice but circumstances,” said Wen Siang. He began to take part in competitions, and it soon became familiar comfort to him. He joined competitions like the Inter-Polytechnic Debate Championships 2021 and 2022, and the Singapore International Debate League 2021. He emerged as champion in all the competitions.

Dylan Mulchand grew up watching Suits and Code of Law, always intrigued by the litigation process. At St Patrick’s School, he found his passion for public speaking in the Debate Club. He competed in the Julia Gabriel Singapore Secondary Schools Debating Championships and won Best Speaker twice! Also active as a Council of Patrician Ambassador and Journalism Club member, he still found time to volunteer with Community Laboratory @ South East CDC. Dylan received the Youth Community Leadership Gold and Excellence Awards for his efforts in 2017 and 2018, respectively.

Aware of his interest in law and talent for debates, Dylan’s tuition teacher mother encouraged him to apply for TP’s Diploma in Law & Management. He thoroughly enjoyed his first-year law modules—reading cases, statutes and discussing interpretations. Always enthusiastic and curious, Dylan was constantly asking questions to satisfy his thirst for knowledge. His academic accomplishment led him to numerous book prizes and a scholarship, and also to a place on the Director’s list for two consecutive years.

In his own words, Alvin admits that he “was not academically inclined during his secondary school days as he did not have a goal.” After graduating from East View Secondary School with 16 points for his O-levels, he was unsure about which diploma course to pursue. Eventually, he decided on TP’s Common Engineering Programme as Mathematics is one of his stronger subjects.

The eldest of two siblings, Alvin’s part-time dental clinic work experience sparked an interest to pursue a career in the healthcare industry. Having found his passion, he decided to stream into TP’s Diploma in Biomedical Engineering in his second year. There, his academic performances skyrocketed! He was placed on the Director’s List and received the TP Scholarship (Engineering). His internship was with the Home Team Science & Technology Agency, and was commended for demonstrating resourcefulness and initiative in his tasks.

Lucas Chew’s passion for fish and plants is ever growing, as he graduates from his Biotechnology course with the TP-CHEMTRON Skills Mastery Award. In 2020, he received the EXPLORE! Young Marine Scientist Research Award, for his outstanding proposal in exploratory marine science research. The award enabled him to carry out his major project at St John’s Island National Marine Laboratory, where he also underwent his internship.

A true all-rounder, this Anglo-Chinese Secondary School (Barker Road) alumnus was vice-captain and eventually captain of TP’s swimming and lifesaving team, earning himself the CCA Merit Award (Sports) and the Sports Colours Award in 2020. While juggling his studies and CCAs at TP, he bagged 20 gold, three silver and seven bronze medals in both swimming and lifesaving competitions. Lucas also represented Singapore at the 19th Asian Finswimming Championships and will be among Team Singapore’s finswimming athletes at the 2021 SEA Games.

Growing up watching CSI, Muhammad Juraimi B Rafinyi has always been curious about criminal minds, which led him to TP’s Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics course. The eldest son of a law firm clerk and housewife, this Dunman Secondary School alumnus describes himself as hardworking, optimistic, and playful.  He always sets the bar high for himself and as a result, twice earned his place on the Director’s List. For his consistent academic excellence, he was also awarded the ST Engineering Electronics Scholarship.

Juraimi has a deep passion for learning and puts his best effort in whatever he does. In 2020, he underwent the grueling training for the WorldSkills Singapore Competition in the IT Network Systems Administration trade. Hard work, commitment and sacrifice eventually paid off and he clinched a Silver medal. Never one to turn down opportunities, he went on study trips to Moscow, as well as Harvard and MIT in the US, where he learned about new cybersecurity technologies and immersed himself in the culture.

hree brain surgeries before the age of nine left Raphael with limited dexterity, impaired vision, and difficulty walking. Yet, he lives by a “Trophy Cabinet” mindset, where every small win becomes fuel for the next challenge.

At Temasek Polytechnic (TP), Raphael experienced more than academic accommodations; he was embraced by a supportive community that believed in him. Diagnosed with hydrocephalus, he was given practical support such as extended examination time and enlarged fonts, but it was the consistent encouragement from the TP community that made a lasting impact. 

TP’s culture of care empowered Raphael to thrive. His lecturers from the School of Business checked in regularly, helping Raphael navigate challenges both inside and outside the classroom. When he failed the subject, Business Statistics, Raphael and his lecturer did not give up but worked hard during the school holidays to rebuild his understanding of the subject, turning an F into a C. This experience, coupled with peer support, allowed Raphael to embrace the challenges he faced and grow beyond them.

Even seemingly simple tasks presented uphill battles. Through relentless training, which included walking over 17 kilometres and completing more than 1,000 assisted pull-ups, Raphael built his strength. One of his proudest milestones came when he successfully carried a tray of canned drinks without toppling them - a feat he once thought impossible. Raphael’s drive extended beyond personal achievements. He worked with TP’s Estate Management Team to improve campus accessibility, recommending enhancements such as yellow safety strips on kerbs and stair edges.

That same determination powered his internship at Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Solutions, where he contributed to global marketing strategies, and supported brand growth across the Asia-Pacific region. His work not only contributed to the company’s marketing efforts but also honed his communication skills, which he had first developed through Toastmasters.

Raphael also represented TP in several speech competitions and won the 2025 Area S4 International Speech Contest. Despite the challenges of public speaking with visual impairments, Raphael has consistently stepped out of his comfort zone and refined his oratory skills to inspire others and actively assists his peers in improving their public speaking skills.

Raphael aspires to become an intellectual property or tax lawyer, but his greater goal is to be a voice for inclusion. At TP, he gained more than knowledge - he discovered purpose, perseverance, and the power of community.

At just 16, Raphaella was diagnosed with a rare condition, fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva, restricting her mobility. Despite this and the passing of her father amidst the pandemic, she refused to let circumstances define her.

Witnessing her mother navigate complex legal issues during this challenging time sparked her passion for law, particularly family law, where access to information and support is crucial.

Driven by a desire to help others, Raphaella enrolled in the Law & Management course at Temasek Polytechnic (TP), where she found a supportive environment. Her internship at a law firm further fuelled her passion for community and criminal law.

Despite limitations, Raphaella gave back. She volunteered at the TP SENvocates, advocating for persons with disabilities and even became the Events Director in her third year. One initiative that she was involved in was "Let's Hang Out" sessions provided a safe space for students with special needs to interact.

She lights up the room with her cheery smile. But beneath Terlyn Ng’s gentle demeanour and positive aura, is a steely individual who has gone through tremendous pain and emerged the stronger for it. The middle child of a family of three children, life changed completely for the siblings when they were suddenly orphaned in 2020. With the loss of both her parents, Terlyn and her siblings were taken in by her maternal grandparents and her aunts. Living in a three-room flat with a larger extended family took some adjusting. In the midst of all that, she had to learn to manage her grief and all the emotions that arose as the result of her loss.

To help her cope with her grief, Terlyn turned to playing the guitar and watching movies. To add to the stress, Terlyn also had to adjust to Year 1 of polytechnic life, in the midst of a pandemic.

It was by no means easy but Terlyn worked very hard to overcome the adversities she faced, for herself and her siblings.

Hailing from Junyuan Secondary School, Terlyn’s interest in the performing arts drew her to TP’s Communications & Media Management course. The initial struggles with the dynamics of group work and with subjects like Journalism were challenging for her. In the end it was her CCA that was both shelter for her and the catalyst in showing her the way forward.

Matthew Ng De En’s cerebral palsy—diagnosed when he was just nine months old—is the reason behind his unsteady gait and slurred speech. Yet he says, “I am often told that the big smile I wear on my face stands out more than any of my shortcomings.” Over the years, Matthew’s strive for independence and his unshakable will to live a life that is as normal as possible is an inspiration to many.

Matthew graduated from Sengkang Secondary School in 2018 as the top student in Humanities. He then decided to join TP’s School of Informatics & IT. Matthew says his choice to study IT is driven by his needs—the need to make a living and the need to leverage technology that could bridge the gap between impairment and quality of life.

Well-read, intelligent and technically competent, Matthew graduates from TP with an amazing cGPA of 3.69! He describes himself as optimistic, confident and resilient. How apt for a young man who says, “I see the impossible as: I’m possible”. According to his lecturers, the tougher the challenges, the more determined Matthew is to overcome them.

Born premature, Alina was diagnosed with diplegic cerebral palsy affecting both legs. Her early years were beset with operations, physiotherapy and constant pain but Alina never gave in. “I am no different from anyone else, I only have to find different ways to get the same results,” she says. Indeed, she has never allowed her illness to stand in the way of being fully involved and committed to life.

Alina did her N-levels at Macpherson Secondary School, then went on to do Higher NITEC in IT which she continued to pursue when she came to TP. In spite of her condition and coping with constant pain, Alina always demonstrated outstanding grit and determination. She attained excellent grades, participated actively in student life, and gave her time generously to the community. She attributes this to her parents who taught her never to use her disabilities as an excuse not to do something.

A national youth squad basketballer since Primary School, Tan Yue Ting recalls spending 80 percent of her time playing basketball, and the rest pretending to study or just sleeping in class.

Yue Ting entered Dunman Secondary School under the Direct School Admission Exercise, but was always in the last class. Thankfully, she reached a turning point in Secondary 3 when she barely scraped through her exams. Motivated by the stern but kind words from her form teacher, and encouraged by her friends, she decided to put her basketball aside and focus on her studies.

From a young age, Andria Tan’s parents encouraged her to take up all types of sports – fencing, netball, swimming, sailing and cross-country… and she enjoyed them all! A member of the national windsurfing team while coping with the demands of being a double Science and Mathematics student in St Anthony’s Canossian Secondary School, Andria is no stranger to discipline and good time-management.

The oldest daughter of a retired RSAF helicopter pilot and housewife mother, Andria’s father hoped she would pursue a career in aeronautical engineering. Then a fan of television series Criminal Minds and CSI, Andria enjoyed talking to, understanding and helping people. Adamant that she wanted to choose a course she was interested in, Andria enrolled in TP’s Psychology Studies course via the Direct Polytechnic Admissions Exercise.

Shermaine See loves basketball. Her passion for sports runs in her family as her father, a GlaxoSmithKline technician, and homemaker mum, played on the national pétanque squad. Her older sister is a touch rugby player.

After a year at Nanyang Junior College, Shermaine found difficulty coping with her studies and being on the national youth basketball team. Encouraged by her coach, a TP alumnus, she decided to enroll into TP’s Business course via the Direct Admission Exercise.

Estella has always been amazed at how aeroplanes are able to fly. She was just 6 years old when her uncle and role model, an air force aircraft maintenance officer, took her to her first airshow. From then on her interest in aeroplanes deepened. With an impressive O-Level score of 5 points, Estella had her heart set on TP’s Aerospace Engineering course, to her parents’ and teachers’ initial disapproval.

Throughout her three years at TP, Estella was an exemplary student and enthusiastic learner. Following her excellent performance during her six-month training at Lufthansa Technical Training Singapore (LTTS), she was selected for the Higher Aerospace Engineering Training (HAET) industrial attachment programme with Pratt & Whitney Canada.

Ee Lee Yee is an amazing young lady whose circumstances have made her wise beyond her years. The second of three daughters, she took on the role of mother to her younger sister when the three girls were left to fend for themselves in Singapore. Their mother, a single parent, had to return to Malaysia but was determined that her daughters get educated in Singapore.

When her elder sister got into the Aerospace Electronics course in TP, Lee Yee was very sure that she wanted to follow suit. At Siglap Secondary School, she found English Language very difficult – she never passed the subject. But through sheer hard work, she got a B3 at the O levels. A track and field athlete and a badminton player in school, Lee Yee is extremely disciplined, focused and independent.

As a child, Yen Mei Yi wanted to be a doctor as she desired to help people. However, as she grew older, she changed her mind. “I realised that mental and emotional wellbeing are just as important as physical wellness in making people happy,” she said. So while everyone expected her to go to junior college after her O-levels, this alumnus of Greendale Secondary School chose to do Psychology Studies in TP as she wanted a “wider experience in her studies and learn to be more independent.” She was so sure of what she wanted to do that she secured her place in TP through the Direct Polytechnic Admissions scheme.

The second of three children, Mei Yi’s father passed away when she was in kindergarten, leaving her mother to care for them single-handedly. “My mother is my inspiration and her strength has made me stronger,” reveals Mei Yi who also says that her father’s death forced her to grow up faster.

Kho Kian Hao is the second child of a stall assistant father and a part-time factory operator mother. With his L1R4 O-levels score of 8 from Chung Cheng High School (Main), he decided to study Psychology Studies at TP – the only course he was truly interested in.

“I believe in bringing the best out of people,” Kian Hao explained. “I know that in future, wherever I want to go, psychology will serve me well.”

Kian Hao was awarded the TP Scholarship during his three years at TP, and underwent the Student Leadership Programme (SLP). He was given many opportunities to participate in overseas projects as well as leadership and talent development programmes. He ravenously seized them all!

The Thng family is living proof that a family that plays together, stays together! Thng Boon Seong comes from a family of badminton players. His father is a badminton coach, while he and his only sister are ex-national players. Joining in the fun, their homemaker mother also plays the sport.

At 11, Boon Seong made it to the national junior team, winning his first team bronze medal whilst studying in Gongshang Primary School. At 12, he bagged his first individual bronze. Boon Seong continued to play for the national team in secondary school. After his O level examinations, he put his education on hold for two years to chase his ambition in badminton. Thereafter, he enlisted into the National Service (NS), and there the sportsman had an epiphany.

This track and field athlete knows only too well what it takes to win a race. Witty and articulate, Divya came to TP from the Sports School.

At the Sports School, her rigorous schedule saw her pack an intensive regime of training, school and homework into each day. Her training saw her practise hard for her specialities, the 400m and 800m events.

Even though her timetable was packed to the brim daily, Divya has very fond memories of her years in the Sports School. Her time there shaped her positive thinking and ability to manage any given situation. It also taught her to plan her time very well, a life lesson that would serve her well at TP where she chose to study Chemical Engineering.

Mitchelle Jauw hails from Sabah, Malaysia and is the elder of two daughters of a clerk and a housewife.

On a fateful day in 2005, Mitchelle's secondary school held an inter-class bowling tournament and her team won the bronze medal. That day marked the start of her bowling career. She was soon talent-spotted and became a member of the Sabah state team!

Convinced that Singapore is where she wanted to pursue her tertiary education, she was happy to receive the Kuok Foundation Berhad Educational Assistance Award given to needy Malaysian students studying in Singapore. On her first day in TP, Mitchelle's biggest shock was finding out that she was the only girl in her Mechatronics class!