Why did you choose to work in the field of SpLD?

I have always believed that everyone can learn and that education should empower each individual to live their best lives. 

My work with individuals with specific learning differences (SpLD) began from a deep desire to understand the “why” behind their struggles and to uncover the strengths hidden beneath. Figuring out how to help every learner  thrive sparked my passion for educational therapy and continues to guide my work today.

My journey into this field is also  deeply personal. Through supporting my own neurodivergent children, I learned firsthand that no two learners are the same. Their unique profiles pushed me to grow, adapt, and equip myself with new tools and strategies — not just for them, but for others like them. This includes the “atypical atypicals” whose learning differences don’t fit the standard diagnostic patterns, as well as twice-exceptional learners who are gifted yet face challenges that can easily be overlooked. 

Every learner deserves to feel seen, capable, and proud of who they are and that belief continues to guide everything I do.

What is one thing that never fails to make you smile in the work that you do?

I feel a deep sense of satisfaction whenever a client shares a “lightbulb moment” with me. When something finally makes sense, when they begin to see themselves not as a problem to be fixed but as a person with potential and capable of achieving their dreams. Whether it’s a child realising that they can learn and they enjoy learning, or an adult rediscovering self-trust, those moments remind me why this work matters.

What do you think is the most important quality/value/belief a person must have when working in the field of Special Education?We must believe every person has value. No matter how they learn, behave, or communicate. Every learner’s worth is non-negotiable. We can teach skills and strategies, but without genuine care and curiosity, we miss what really matters. Our work isn’t about fixing people. We are not fixers but facilitators. We help individuals grow in ways that honour who they are by seeing them and connecting with them.

What is the one thing you would do to improve special education in your country?

True inclusion happens when we move beyond labels and work together to create environments where all learners, regardless of abilities or diagnoses, can thrive in all areas of life including school, work and play. I would like to build such inclusion in Singapore by helping educators, clinicians, and families speak a common language of support.

We need to strengthen the communication and collaboration amongst all our stakeholders in society 

We all want the same thing: for our learners to succeed and feel safe. If we had more shared language and understanding across systems, families wouldn’t feel so lost. 

Empowering everyone in society with a shared understanding of both inclusion and support needs would make a world of difference and literally, build a different but better world for all.

What motivated you to become a RETA member and how has it benefited you?

I joined RETA because I wanted to be part of a community that gets it. I wanted to meet people who are passionate about learning, growth, and doing this work well. It’s been encouraging to meet others who share the same heart and commitment to ethical, reflective professional practice. RETA reminds me that I’m not alone in this journey, that we’re all learning together, just like our students. And together, we can raise the standard of practice for all who learn differently.

What advice would you give someone who has special educational needs or lives/works with people with special educational needs?

To those with special educational needs:

You are not broken. You are not less. You are not nothing. Our world needs you  and all your unique quirks, insights, and ideas. You make life more interesting, more human, and more whole. Thank you for being you, and for being patient with the rest of us who still don’t get your brilliance!

To those who live or work with them:

You are the reason the world can remain beautiful, wonderful, and hopeful for those who count on you. 

You are often the reason someone keeps trying. You help them believe in themselves when it’s hardest. I know it can be exhausting at times but what you do matters more than you realise. Rest when you need to but please don’t quit. 

Remember that you matter more than you realize. Every small act of understanding from you helps someone find their light. Thank you for being who you are and doing what you do!