Ing Kai graduated from polytechnic two years ago and is currently doing his National Service . With a strong background in STEM education and a knack for creative problem-solving, Ing Kai has consistently strove to bridge the gap between theory and practical application.
Driven by a desire to make STEAM education accessible to all, Ing Kai founded Stick’Em when he was a student. Stick’Em is a startup focused on providing affordable STEAM kits and curriculum. By empowering teachers and students, Stick’Em aims to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.
Read his #ADHDStory below.
When did you get diagnosed?
I was diagnosed with ADHD in Primary school, after being sent to the principal’s office multiple times and getting suspended every other month. I was building and selling PVC air cannons, flamethrowers, tasers and all sorts of dangerous things.
What was life like before diagnosis?
Life before diagnosis was pretty bad. My mom transferred me from the prestigious Pei Hwa Presbyterian School to Bukit Timah Primary School, hoping a neighbourhood school would be more forgiving of a disruptive child (it did not).
However, in Primary 5, something changed. My dad brought me to Engineering Good, where I learnt that my knack for engineering could be used to build assistive technologies. The weekends of playing with fire and electricity quickly became filled with modifying wheelchairs, and everyday items to be disability friendly.
I scraped through PSLE by heavily medicating with Ritalin and Concerta to focus, and ended up burned out and weary of studying. Got into secondary school where I continued to get into trouble with classmates and teachers. Thankfully, one of my teachers gave me the opportunity to further my love for making, by sending me to engineering competitions where I built underwater robots and other crazy creations.
What was life like post diagnosis?
My secondary school years forced me to confront my ADHD head-on, to understand what it meant, and to find ways to channel my energy positively. Over time, I’ve learnt how to work with my challenges and even turn ADHD into my superpower.
What do you think are your greatest ADHD strengths?
With Stick ‘Em, the same condition that makes me dread spreadsheets also keeps me hyper-focused for the entire day like an Energizer Bunny.
How do you manage ADHD in daily life?
The key is understanding how your unique mind works and optimising your executive functions to set yourself up for success.
“Having ADHD is like having a Ferrari engine for a brain, but with bicycle brakes. The trick is to strengthen those brakes, to take control of the enormous and unusual power of your mind.” – Dr Hallowell. I always keep this in mind and regulate my daily routine and activities so that I can rein in my racing thoughts.
Complete this sentence: ADHD is...like a Ferrari engine with bicycle brakes.
Many thanks for stepping up to be our #Champions4ADHD and spread ADHD Awareness, hope and inspire others. This is an important step to create more understanding, acceptance and opportunities for ADHDers in Singapore. Read more inspiring stories of ADHDers here!
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