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DAS Alumni Blog and Happenings

DAS Alumni Journeys: Dylan’s Story of Growth and Leadership

  • RIZWANA FATIMA

Early Challenges and Discovering Dyslexia

Dylan’s journey with dyslexia began in primary school, when his teacher noticed his learning challenges and referred him for an assessment. He was subsequently diagnosed with dyslexia. Like many students with learning differences, these struggles affected not only his academics but also his confidence in the classroom.

Things began to change when Dylan joined the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS). With targeted intervention and encouragement from his teachers, he slowly started to rebuild his confidence and develop essential literacy skills. His teachers consistently encouraged him to read regularly, helping him strengthen his vocabulary and comprehension over time.

Finding Confidence at DAS

Through his years at DAS, Dylan experienced significant growth in his communication and language abilities. These skills did not just support his academic progress, but they also became strengths that continue to serve him well in his everyday life.

As his confidence grew, Dylan stepped beyond the classroom and embraced new challenges. Over the years, he has taken on numerous leadership roles, earning several prestigious accolades along the way. 

These include the National Youth Achievement Award in Gold in 2025, the MOE EAGLES Award in both 2023 and 2024, and the MOE Leadership Service Award in 2023. Each achievement reflects his resilience and willingness to push beyond.

Today, Dylan is pursuing a part-time Diploma in Logistics, building on his earlier studies in Nitec Logistics. Looking ahead, he hopes to complete a degree in logistics and continue growing both professionally and personally.

One of the most defining highlights of Dylan’s journey was how DAS transformed his life. The support he received allowed him to develop not only academically, but also personally such as improved public speaking and self-confidence. 

A Defining Moment on Stage

His English improved tremendously, and in 2025, he achieved a milestone that once might have felt unimaginable: hosting the DAS Student Talent Showcase, Gift of Wonders in 2025. Standing on stage and addressing an audience of over a 100 people was a powerful reflection of how far he had come.

A Message of Courage and Possibility

Dylan’s aspirations for the future go beyond personal success. He hopes that society will stop looking down on individuals with dyslexia. Instead, he encourages people to recognise that dyslexia simply offers a different, and often unique, way of learning. With the right support, individuals with dyslexia can thrive and excel in their own ways.

To others walking a similar path, Dylan shares a simple yet powerful message:

“Fear is temporary. Regret is forever.”

By choosing to step forward despite his fears, Dylan discovered strengths he never knew he had. Whether it was taking on leadership roles or standing confidently on stage as an emcee, each brave step helped him grow.

Dylan’s story is a reminder that with perseverance, support, and belief, learning differences do not define limits. They shape strengths.

“There is more to us than we know. If we can be made to see it, perhaps for the rest of our lives we will be unwilling to settle for less.” — Kurt Hahn

Whether you are a parent or a past DAS student, if you have a story to share, reach out to us at [email protected]

Want to join the DAS Alumni family? Click here!

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