True Story

14th August 2010 will officially write a new chapter in Singapore and Olympic history. The very first Youth Olympic Games will finally begin at the Opening Ceremony with 27, 000 spectators live at the Marina Bay floating platform and 2 billion viewers across the world..

I don't think I can even begin to describe how I feel. Its truly the greatest privilege and honor to be part of this amazing occasion. On a personal note, it marks a very special milestone in what has been an incredible journey thus far..

It feels absolutely surreal just thinking back on how it all began. I was 14 then, and I was already sure I wanted to be a radio producer-presenter.. it has always been (and still is) my childhood ambition. I want(ed) to be that relatable personality on the air to people, one that makes them think, appreciate or feel appreciated and happy, every single time I go on air.. that has always been the dream and promise; it hasn't changed.

I never thought about or wanted to be a host.

The very first event I ever hosted in my life was a punishment for talking too much in class. That was a total disaster and I quite literally ended up being the biggest joke of the school. But for some reason, instead of saying "shit, i won't ever do this again", I was fired up with a new passion and determination. That began my journey as a host..

7 incredible years of many firsts and milestones. From the virgin school stage, to my first public event, camps, concerts, the first massive crowd, the time I hosted infront of our Prime Minister (and I still remember almost dying from fear), the beginning of major and international events.. World Cups, Asian Youth Games, Singapore Idol, media launches, and now the Youth Olympic Games.

Some people look at what i've achieved and simply say "this boy got lucky". To be completely honest, it really hurts whenever people dismiss the hard work and effort i've made to be where i'm at now.

It hasn't been an easy journey at all. There were times I had serious doubts and thoughts of quitting, to give up fighting the fight. Many occasions where I completely crashed from exhaustion physically and fear emotionally and psychologically. I've taken a lot of unassured risks, made many painful sacrifices, faced and still do get rejected or passed on by, get slammed, been subjected to a lot of public scrutiny, hate and shit..

People still and will always be saying hurtful and critical things which inevitably affects me. But I won't ever do things just for the sake of saying "i'll prove you wrong", i'll listen to what I have to and continue to challenge and strive to better myself because to me, the greatest joy is simply being able to do what I love, the best I can and be happy.

And I am happy.. and grateful.

Grateful for every opportunity and experience good and bad. Grateful especially for the friends, loved ones and people who believe in me.. and i'd also like to make a special note of thanks to Mark Richmond. I am the person I am and where i'm at today because of the love from these very special people in my life who've been supporting and encouraging me all the way through each chapter in my life.

To you guys.. thank you.

Tonight, the next chapter will be written. Dreams beyond what i've ever dared to dream are now a reality. But it doesn't end here. I will keep on working hard, doing my best; always appreciating the moments and people.. and continue sharing these experiences of my life and dreams with you. Maybe someday my stories will even give strength and encouragement to someone, somewhere, somehow.. and they too will go on to make an impact in their own lives and dreams. That will be totally inspiring.

Dreams are simply reality waiting to happen.. believe in them, do everything you can to make it happen, and never ever forget to be grateful and appreciate every experience and person along the way. True story :)