Veena has always believed in the transformative power of education. Guided by the philosophy, “If a child can’t learn the way we teach, then we should teach the way he/she learns”. She has spent her career bridging the gap between traditional teaching methods and the unique learning needs of her students.

As a classroom teacher, Veena became acutely aware of the diversity in her students’ learning styles and paces. She realised early on that a one-size-fits-all approach simply wouldn’t work. Every child deserves an approach tailored to their strengths. This awareness motivated her to pursue a Diploma in Special Education, which became a pivotal step in her journey to supporting children with Specific Learning Differences (SpLD).

Veena’s unique perspective stems from her dual roles, she has been both a classroom teacher and a special educator focused on curriculum-based remediation. This dual expertise allowed her to link the expectations of academic curricula with the individual working styles of her students. In her remediation work, she always prioritises a child’s strengths, choosing strategies that maximise their potential. The results, she says, have often been almost instantaneous, reflected in both the child’s performance and, more importantly, their growing self-confidence.

Over the years, Veena has honed her skills working with children in various international schools in Singapore. This experience has given her an in-depth understanding of diverse curriculum and how to adapt them effectively for children with unique needs. Her success in helping learners manage these academic challenges highlights her dedication and ability to bring out the best in every child. 

Beyond the classroom, Veena’s passion for working with children extends to creative and cultural pursuits. She has engaged young minds through storytelling at Singapore’s National Library Board and has led student-focused tours at the Asian Civilisations Museum. These experiences have enriched her understanding of how children engage with the world, further informing her educational philosophy.

For Veena, the most rewarding moments in her work are when a child confidently says, “I can do it.” Those four words encapsulate everything she strives for, the empowerment and belief in one’s ability to learn and succeed.

She firmly believes that working in special education requires three critical qualities: the ability to listen, observe, and adapt. These values underpin her approach and help her connect deeply with the children she supports.

Joining the Register of Educational Therapists (Asia) [RETA] has been another significant milestone in Veena’s journey. She was drawn to RETA by the opportunity to connect with highly qualified professionals who share her goals. Through engaging with this vibrant community, Veena has shared experiences, learned from experts worldwide, and reinforced her belief in lifelong learning. RETA has further fueled her passion for making education accessible and effective for all. 

When asked what she would do to improve special education in her country, Veena is clear: teaching must adapt to reflect that there are multiple paths to learning. The traditional approach needs to grow and evolve to meet the unique needs of each student. 

To anyone navigating the world of special educational needs, whether as a learner, a teacher, or a caregiver, Veena offers her heartfelt advice: “Identify the learner’s strengths and use them as stepping stones to climb the ladder of learning. Build their confidence, and they will achieve more than they ever thought possible.”

Veena’s unwavering belief in the potential of every child serves as an inspiration to educators everywhere, proving that with the right approach, no challenge is insurmountable, and every child can say, “I can do it.”