Clarence is the Founder and Executive Director of Access, a social mobility charity established in January 2019 to provide career exposure opportunities for disadvantaged students in Singapore. He spearheads and cultivates many initiatives and relationships to fulfil the mission of providing early intervention support to students in need.
For nearly a decade, Clarence assists elderly individuals and low-income families in the Kreta Ayer-Kim Seng community as an enthusiastic volunteer. He is also actively involved in the Moulmein-Cairnhill community, where he served as a Member of the Citizen’s Consultative Committee, and Chairman for the Moulmein-Cairnhill Mental Well-being Circle.
Read his #ADHDStory below.
When did you get diagnosed?
I was diagnosed with ADHD when I was Primary 1 at the Child Guidance Clinic, part of the Institute of Mental Health.
What was life like before diagnosis?
Growing up with ADHD was a journey of self-discovery, frustration, and resilience.
I remember being constantly fidgety, my mind always jumping to the next thing, and I spent way too much time visiting the senior school folks. I had many repeated incidents at school and my teachers were constantly concerned of me.
ADHD was a condition with a lot of misconceptions, and teachers and classmates didn’t always know what to make of me.
Through secondary school, I was often seen as the troublemaker or the odd one out – the kid who couldn’t sit still, who didn’t quite fit the mold. I got into trouble a lot and even got caned.
The school system back then wasn’t set up for students like me. It prioritised compliance, structure, and grades. My parents, both educators themselves, didn’t put much pressure on me directly, but I could feel it – the disappointment especially when I came back with constant failing grades.
Those times when they had to sign off on one of my reports or notices from school were incredibly difficult.
What was life like post diagnosis?
It wasn’t until university that things began to click for me. I made the choice to embrace my ADHD as part of who I am. I realised there was no shame in it, no reason to hide.
ADHD doesn’t define me, but it is a part of me – the part that’s creative, driven, and a little unconventional. The journey from problem child to running Access wasn’t straightforward, but each part shaped me in ways I wouldn’t trade.
What do you think are your greatest ADHD strengths?
My relentless energy fuels my vision to create opportunities for disadvantaged students, to build a space where everyone’s potential is recognised and nurtured, even if it doesn’t fit the standard mold.
How do you manage ADHD in daily life?
On the tougher days, I lean on the incredible team at Access and my supportive better half for their support and empowerment.
How would you advise your younger self?
You’re not alone in this, and there’s no one-size-fits-all way to manage it. You’ll find your rhythm, and when you do, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.
Your challenges can become your strengths. Embrace them, learn from them, and build something beautiful with them!
Complete this sentence: ADHD is… a superhero trait!
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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