inspiring

Famous People Who Battled Disabilities

Nadya Sharfina · February 6, 2025 · Leave a Comment

"True greatness isn’t found in perfection, but in the resilience and determination to overcome challenges, proving that limitations do not define one's potential."

When we think about success, we often imagine physical and mental perfection—flawless abilities and ideal circumstances leading to achievement. It’s easy to assume that in order to reach great heights, one must have everything going for them. However, the reality is that many remarkable individuals with disabilities have defied the odds and achieved incredible success. They’ve shown us that limitations don’t define one’s potential. Behind their fame and accomplishments, these famous figures struggled with their own challenges, yet they became some of the most influential people in the world. Their stories remind us that true greatness isn’t about perfection—it’s about resilience and determination.

Helen Keller

Helen Keller’s story is one of incredible perseverance and determination. Born on June 27, 1880, in Tuscumbia, Alabama, she was a healthy child until, at just 19 months old, she contracted a severe illness. Though the exact illness remains unknown, it’s believed to have been rubella, meningitis, or scarlet fever. The disease left her both deaf and blind, dramatically changing the course of her life.

For years, young Helen struggled to communicate, trapped in a silent and dark world. That all changed when Anne Sullivan, a dedicated teacher, entered her life. With patience and innovative techniques, Sullivan taught Helen how to read braille, lip-read by touch, and use finger spelling. Eventually, Helen even learned how to speak. Her breakthrough moment came when she connected the concept of language to the sensation of water running over her hand—an event that marked the beginning of her remarkable journey. Check out: Helen Keller: Beyond Silence and Darkness.

Keller’s accomplishments were groundbreaking. She became a symbol of resilience for children facing obstacles, proving that no challenge is insurmountable. She went on to attend Radcliffe College in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where she excelled academically and graduated cum laude in 1904. At the time, a blind and deaf individual earning a college degree was so rare that it made headlines in The Evening World.

Her achievements didn’t stop with education. Helen Keller built an extraordinary career advocating for disability rights, women’s suffrage, labour rights, and world peace. She was a prolific writer, publishing over 14 books and countless essays and speeches, and travelled the world as a passionate lecturer. Her lifelong dedication to advocacy and education made her one of history’s most influential figures in the fight for inclusivity and equal rights.

Leonardo da Vinci

Da Vinci was best known for his iconic paintings, Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, but his brilliance extended far beyond art. He was a true Renaissance man—an innovator, scientist, and visionary. What many people don’t realize, however, is that da Vinci may have struggled with learning disabilities, including dyslexia and ADHD. Experts believe these conditions may explain some of his unusual habits, such as writing backwards, misspelling words, and leaving many of his projects unfinished.

Despite these challenges, da Vinci’s mind was nothing short of extraordinary. Some scholars argue that his boundless creativity and unconventional thinking were fueled by his unique way of processing information. Interestingly, he wasn’t alone—other great thinkers like Galileo Galilei and Isaac Newton are also believed to have had attention and learning difficulties.

Beyond painting, da Vinci’s curiosity led him to study an astonishing range of subjects. He explored human anatomy in incredible detail, dissecting bodies to create highly accurate sketches of muscles, organs, and bones. His studies weren’t limited to the human body—he also delved into mathematics, optics, mechanics, geology, and botany. His fascination with water led him to study hydraulic engineering, and his observations of birds inspired his famous sketches of flying machines. One of his most remarkable inventions, the “helical airscrew,” bears a striking resemblance to the modern helicopter.

Albert Einstein

He is often regarded as the greatest genius of all time, but his early years were not without challenges. Some experts believe he may have struggled with learning difficulties, though this remains controversial. For instance, by the age of 16, he reportedly still had trouble tying his shoelaces, which has led some to suggest he may have had dyspraxia, a condition affecting coordination and motor skills. Others argue that he showed traits of Asperger’s syndrome, as he was known to be socially awkward and sometimes struggled with clear communication. Anecdotal accounts describe his lectures as notoriously confusing.

Another theory is that Einstein had ADHD. He was said to be both forgetful and disorganized, yet capable of incredible “hyper-focusing” when deep in thought. His ability to conduct highly complex thought experiments—imagining scenarios entirely in his mind—suggests that his unique way of thinking may have played a role in his groundbreaking discoveries.

Of course, Einstein’s achievements hardly need an introduction. His contributions to science revolutionized our understanding of the universe. In 1910, he answered a simple yet profound question: “Why is the sky blue?” His paper on critical opalescence explained how light scatters off individual molecules in the atmosphere, solving a problem that had puzzled scientists for years. He also formulated the famous equation E=mc², demonstrating the equivalence of mass and energy—a concept that later played a key role in nuclear energy and physics.

Perhaps one of his most groundbreaking contributions was challenging the traditional wave theory of light. He proposed that light could also behave as a collection of particles, an idea that laid the foundation for quantum physics. For his insights on the photoelectric effect, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1921.

Andrea Bocelli

Born with congenital glaucoma, a rare and serious eye condition that affects about one in 10,000 infants, Bocelli struggled with vision problems from a young age. Despite this, he developed a deep love for music, starting piano lessons at just six years old and later mastering the flute and saxophone. However, at the age of 12, tragedy struck—he suffered a brain hemorrhage after a soccer accident, which resulted in the complete loss of his sight.

Rather than letting blindness define him, Bocelli pushed forward with remarkable determination. He pursued a law degree at the University of Pisa, balancing his studies while performing in piano bars and nightclubs to support himself. His big break came in 1992 when Italian pop star Zucchero Fornaciari invited him to record a demo of Miserere, a song intended for the legendary Luciano Pavarotti. Pavarotti was so impressed with Bocelli’s voice that it set his career on an unstoppable path.

By 1997, Bocelli had become a global sensation with the release of Romanza, a compilation of songs from his previous albums that went on to sell over 15 million copies worldwide. His ability to blend classical and contemporary music made him one of the most beloved tenors in history.

More recently, during the COVID-19 lockdown in Italy, Bocelli gave a breathtaking concert at Milan’s Duomo Cathedral. Performing Amazing Grace and Ave Maria to an empty cathedral, his performance became the most-watched classical live stream ever, reaching over 28 million views. It was a moment of unity, reminding the world of the power of music to bring comfort and hope in difficult times.

Agatha Christie

Agatha Christie is widely regarded as one of the most successful authors of her time. Her detective novels have become a cornerstone of the mystery genre. However, behind this incredible success, Christie faced significant personal challenges. As a child, she often referred to herself as the “slow one in the family” and struggled with both writing and spelling. These difficulties went beyond simple frustrations and were likely symptoms of dysgraphia, a condition that affects handwriting and fine motor skills, and possibly even dyslexia. These challenges made writing particularly troublesome for her, to the point where even everyday tasks, such as balancing her chequebook, became a struggle.

Despite these obstacles, Christie’s passion for storytelling remained unshaken. Her first-ever story, The House of Beauty, was written while she was bedridden, recovering from influenza. Over the years, Christie’s work gained worldwide recognition. Titles like Murder on the Orient Express, Crooked House, and Hercule Poirot’s Christmas solidified her reputation as a master of the mystery genre.

Her novels have been translated into more than 103 languages—more than any other writer in history—allowing her work to reach diverse audiences across the globe. Throughout her life, Christie received numerous honours, including the prestigious Mystery Writers of America’s Grand Master Award in 1955 and the Order of Dame Commander of the British Empire in 1971.

The stories of these exceptional individuals show us just how much potential lies within people, regardless of the challenges they face. Their invincible spirit and determination have shattered barriers, proving time and time again that disabilities do not limit greatness. Throughout history, these famous figures with disabilities have defied all odds, breaking through societal expectations to make lasting contributions to the world. Their achievements stand as a powerful testament to the idea that sometimes, it’s the very challenges we face that push us to reach new heights. They’ve inspired countless others and left an indelible mark on society, reminding us all that no obstacle is too great to overcome.

Check out more: The Celebrities Who Are Just as Smart as They Are Talented.

The Celebrities Who Are Just as Smart as They Are Talented

Nadya Sharfina · November 14, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"Intelligence isn't limited to academia; it can shine in every field, even in entertainment, where many actors combine talent with remarkable intellect."

Intelligence isn’t confined to academia; it can be found across various fields, including the world of entertainment. While we often associate smart people with scholarly pursuits, there are countless actors and actresses who shine not only for their talent but also for their impressive intellect.

Many of these talented individuals portray smart characters on screen, but they also take on lighthearted and silly roles that may seem less intelligent. However, the actors behind these characters possess remarkable intelligence. One of these celebrities reportedly has an IQ higher than Einstein.

Emma Watson

Photo by ELLE

Emma Watson is widely celebrated for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter film series, where her portrayal of the character’s intellect resonated with audiences. Her passion for acting ignited at age six, leading her to train at the Oxford branch of Stagecoach Theatre Arts, where she mastered singing, dancing, and acting. This early dedication shone through on set, where she became known for her impressive ability to deliver her lines in just one take, highlighting her exceptional memory and concentration.

While filming, Watson and her castmates benefited from rigorous tutoring, dedicating up to five hours a day to their studies. Her academic diligence paid off when she took her GCSEs in 2006, achieving an outstanding eight A* and two A grades. Watson continued to excel in her education, taking AS levels in English, Geography, Art, and History of Art before ultimately pursuing three A levels, earning an A in each subject. She attended Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, and later spent a year at Worcester College, Oxford, further demonstrating her commitment to academic excellence.

Beyond her educational pursuits, Watson has established herself as a formidable advocate for gender equality. Appointed as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador in 2014, she has used her platform to promote women’s rights. Her influence was recognized when she topped AskMen’s “Top 99 Outstanding Women” list in 2015 and was named one of Time’s 100 most influential people in the world.

Watson also founded a feminist Goodreads book club called “Our Shared Shelf,” encouraging discussions around feminist literature. Her activism extends to environmental justice and climate change, showcasing her dedication to multiple vital causes. You can read more about another young climate activist here: Greta Thunberg’s Influence on Today’s Teen Climate Activists.

The impact of her work on young women’s perceptions of feminism has been profound, often referred to as the “Emma Watson effect,” inspiring many to embrace the feminist label and advocate for gender equality and social justice.

Nolan Gould

If you’re a fan of Modern Family, you’re likely familiar with Nolan Gould, who plays the lovable, clumsy, and sometimes sneaky Luke Dunphy. His character often steals scenes with a mix of silliness and charm, but the real Nolan Gould is quite a different person. Behind the humour and antics of Modern Family’s ‘Luke’, is a young man with a brilliant mind.

Gould’s academic journey is nothing short of impressive. By 2012, he had accelerated four grades in school, showcasing his intellectual capabilities long before most teens consider graduating. His dedication to his studies has earned him a spot in Mensa, the largest and oldest high-IQ society in the world. This prestigious organisation is open to individuals who score at the 98th percentile or higher on standardised intelligence tests.

Gould dedicated considerable time to studying and successfully tested out of high school, ultimately graduating at the young age of 13. This achievement speaks volumes about his commitment to learning and his ability to thrive in a challenging academic environment, even while maintaining a successful acting career.

Lisa Kudrow

Lisa Kudrow is best known for her iconic role as Phoebe Buffay on the beloved sitcom Friends. This quirky character, with her silly antics and ditzy charm, has since been hailed as one of the greatest television characters of all time. While Phoebe often played the clueless friend in the group, Kudrow herself is anything but. Her academic background reveals a sharp intellect that sets her apart in the entertainment industry.

Kudrow holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from Vassar College, where she initially intended to follow in her father’s footsteps and become an expert on headaches. While breaking into acting, Kudrow worked alongside her physician father for eight years and gained valuable experience in the medical field. Her dedication to research is evident, as she has credit for a study examining the likelihood of left-handed individuals developing cluster headaches.

Beyond her iconic role in Friends, Kudrow has continued to make significant contributions to the industry as a producer and writer. She serves as a producer on the TLC/NBC reality program Who Do You Think You Are, which has received five Primetime Emmy nominations. Additionally, she created, produced, wrote, and starred in the HBO mockumentary series The Comeback.

Rowan Atkinson

Rowan Atkinson is a household name, thanks to his iconic character, Mr. Bean, who has entertained generations from Baby Boomers to Gen Z. Known for his slapstick humour and silly antics, Atkinson has built a career on playing the bumbling yet lovable character that often leaves audiences in stitches. However, beneath the goofy exterior lies one of the smartest minds in entertainment.

Atkinson boasts an impressive IQ of 178, placing him in a league of intellectuals that includes the likes of Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking. While neither Einstein or Hawking ever formally took an IQ test, estimates suggest their IQs hover around 160 based on their groundbreaking work and interviews. Atkinson’s score not only surpasses theirs but also highlights a remarkable blend of intelligence and comedic genius that sets him apart in the industry. His contributions to the arts have also been recognized, as he was honoured with the title of Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE).

His academic background is equally impressive. Before embarking on his successful acting career, Atkinson excelled in his education, earning top grades in his science A levels. He attended Newcastle University, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering in 1975.

In 1935, Atkinson briefly began a PhD at The Queen’s College, Oxford—an institution that holds personal significance, as it’s where his father studied in 1935. Atkinson’s master’s thesis, published in 1978, explored the application of self-tuning control, showcasing his technical expertise. With accolades in both comedy and academia, Rowan Atkinson exemplifies how brilliance and humour can coexist, making him a truly remarkable figure in entertainment.

For more inspiring celebrity stories, check out ‘Sabrina Carpenter’s Rise to Stardom,’ ‘How Billie Eilish Became Gen Z’s Role Model,’ and ‘Spotlight on Local Artist Benjamin Kheng.’

Who Revealed Anne Frank’s Hiding Place?

Nadya Sharfina · May 21, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"The diary of Anne Frank serves as a poignant record of life in hiding under Nazi rule, ensuring her legacy as a symbol of the Holocaust's countless victims."

Anne Frank is widely recognised as one of the most prominent victims of the Holocaust. Throughout the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands, Anne documented her experiences of life in hiding under Nazi persecution.

Her diary provides a poignant glimpse into the daily struggles and emotional turmoil faced by her family and others in hiding during Adolf Hitler’s reign of terror. Through her words, the world has come to know the Frank family and their companions in the Secret Annex.

After 25 months of concealment, tragedy struck when the hiding place was discovered. The circumstances surrounding this discovery remain shrouded in mystery. Questions persist about how the Gestapo learned of the hiding place and who may have betrayed the occupants.

Early Life and Family

Annelies Marie Frank, better known as Anne Frank, was born on June 12, 1929, in Frankfurt, Germany. She was the second daughter of Otto and Edith Frank. Anne’s father, Otto, had served as a lieutenant in the German army during World War I and later became a businessman in Germany and the Netherlands. Otto and Edith were dedicated parents with a strong interest in scholarly pursuits, and they maintained an extensive library at home. This environment encouraged both Anne and her older sister Margot, who was three years Anne’s senior, to develop a love for reading.

The Frank family lived in a diverse and assimilated community where Jewish and non-Jewish citizens of various religious backgrounds coexisted. Although the Franks identified as Jewish, they did not strictly adhere to all Jewish customs and traditions. This liberal outlook shaped Anne’s upbringing in a culturally rich and open-minded household.

The 1920s were a challenging time for Germany, as the country grappled with severe economic difficulties due in large part to the harsh sanctions imposed by the Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War I. Amidst this economic turmoil, the National German Socialist Workers Party, commonly known as the Nazi Party and led by Adolf Hitler, gained significant influence. By 1933, the Nazis had seized control of the German government, and their virulently anti-Semitic policies began to take effect.

As the political climate in Germany deteriorated, Otto Frank foresaw the impending dangers and fled to Amsterdam in the Netherlands, where he had established business connections. The rest of the Frank family soon followed, with Anne being the last to join them in February 1934, after spending some time with her grandparents in Aachen. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter in Anne’s life, one that would be profoundly shaped by the turbulent events of the era.

In Hiding Place

After leaving Germany, the Franks found relief in their new hometown of Amsterdam, where they could once again enjoy freedom. Otto Frank became the managing director of the Dutch Opekta Company, which manufactured products used in making jam. Anne started attending Amsterdam’s Sixth Montessori School in 1934, leading a relatively happy and normal childhood. She had many friends and was known for being a bright and inquisitive student.

However, their peaceful life was short-lived. On September 1, 1939, Nazi Germany invaded Poland, sparking the global conflict that would become World War II. The situation worsened on May 10, 1940, when the German army invaded the Netherlands. The Dutch surrendered five days later, beginning the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands.

In July 1942, Anne and her family were forced to go into hiding to escape the escalating persecution of Jews. They were eventually joined by four other Jews: Hermann, Auguste, Peter van Pels, and Fritz Pfeffer. For two years, they lived in a secret apartment at 263 Prinsengracht Street, hidden behind the business offices where Otto Frank had worked as a company director. Anne referred to this hiding place in her diary as the Secret Annex.

While in hiding, Anne kept a detailed diary where she recorded her fears, hopes, and daily experiences. This diary has since become a powerful testament to the resilience and courage of those who endured the horrors of the Holocaust.

Deported to Auschwitz

On August 4, 1944, the German SS and police discovered the Frank family’s hiding place. Along with the residents of the Secret Annex, the police also arrested two of their helpers. The exact reason for this raid remains unclear. Some speculate that the Germans found the hiding place by chance while investigating reports of illegal activities and fraud involving ration coupons at the house. However, the most widely accepted theory is that the police were tipped off by an anonymous caller, whose identity remains unknown to this day.

Following their arrest, the people from the hiding place were transported to the Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland. This marked the beginning of a harrowing journey that would separate families and test their endurance in unimaginable ways.

At Auschwitz, the men and women were separated, marking the last time Otto Frank saw his wife and daughters. After a month of grueling labour, Anne and her sister Margot were transferred once again. They were sent to the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in Germany, while their parents stayed behind in Auschwitz. Tragically, Edith Frank fell ill and died at Auschwitz on January 6, 1945.

The conditions at Bergen-Belsen were appalling. Sanitation was terrible, food was scarce, and the camp was plagued by cold, wet weather and rampant disease. In these harsh conditions, Anne and Margot contracted typhus. In February 1945, both sisters succumbed to the disease—Margot first, followed shortly by Anne. Anne was just 15 years old at the time of her death.

By the end of the war, Otto Frank emerged as the sole survivor of his family and the only one from the Secret Annex to survive. He was liberated from Auschwitz by the Russians and, during his long journey back to the Netherlands, he learned of the deaths of his wife and daughters.

Becoming a Historical Icon

When Otto Frank returned to Amsterdam after the war, he found Anne’s diary, which had been saved by Miep Gies. Anne’s writing made a deep impression on Otto, especially her aspirations of becoming a writer or a journalist. Moved by her words and determined to honour her memory, Otto decided to publish her diary.

On June 25, 1947, “The Diary of a Young Girl” was published. Since then, it has been translated into more than 70 languages. Various editions, as well as screen and stage adaptations, have been created worldwide. Commonly referred to as “The Diary of Anne Frank,” it remains one of the most moving and widely read firsthand accounts of the Jewish experience during the Holocaust.

Otto Frank passed away in 1980. He had always hoped that readers of the diary would become more aware of the dangers of discrimination and racism. Today, the home where the Franks hid in Amsterdam, now known as the Anne Frank House, draws more than a million visitors each year. The enduring impact of Anne’s diary continues to educate and inspire people around the globe.

Greta Thunberg’s Influence on Today’s Teen Climate Activists

Nadya Sharfina · April 23, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"Amidst growing climate impacts, recent events highlight the need for action. Where is Greta Thunberg now? Is she still inspiring young people despite challenges?"

In an era where the impacts of climate change are increasingly felt across the globe, recent events serve as stark reminders of the urgent need for environmental action. From Vietnam’s state of emergency due to scorching temperatures that dried up rice fields, to the Philippines suspending classes amid sweltering heat exceeding 107 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius), and the United Arab Emirates experiencing its most powerful rainstorm ever on April 16, 2024, causing widespread flooding. These events show that climate change is real and affecting us all.

Amidst this backdrop of environmental upheaval, the name Greta Thunberg resurfaces—a young girl catapulted to international fame for her unwavering climate activism. But where is she now? Is she still advocating for change? And, in the face of criticism and rebellion, does she continue to inspire young people?

Early Life

Greta Thunberg, born Greta Tintin Eleonora Ernman Thunberg on January 3, 2003, in Stockholm, Sweden, discovered the urgency of climate change at a remarkably young age. Her awakening to the problem occurred in 2011 when she was just eight years old. She couldn’t understand why so little was being done about such a serious matter. She was severely impacted by this knowledge.

By the time she turned eleven, the weight of this understanding had taken a toll on her health. Thunberg stopped speaking and eating as much, ultimately shedding ten kilograms in just two months. This period resulted in her diagnoses of Asperger’s syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and selective mutism.

After nearly four years of grappling with depression, Thunberg’s journey towards activism began with her efforts to change her family’s lifestyle. At the age of fifteen, she escalated her activism by organising school strikes to advocate for increased climate action in Sweden. Standing outside the Swedish parliament with her “School Strike for Climate” sign, she distributed educational fliers calling for more decisive action to combat climate change.

Over time, her advocacy work gained traction, and she found solidarity within the Fridays for Future movement, where she highlighted the inclusivity of individuals with autism. Her impact transcended climate activism, earning her the reputation of not only a prominent voice for environmental concerns but also for autism awareness.

On Activism

Greta Thunberg’s activism has been characterised by her unwavering dedication to the Fridays for Future movement. Her bold actions served as a catalyst, inspiring hundreds of thousands of students worldwide to join the Fridays for Future movement. This grassroots movement saw strikes taking place in various countries, including Belgium, Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Finland, Denmark, France, and the Netherlands, among others.

As Thunberg’s profile grew, so did the demand for her voice on the global stage. She received numerous invitations to speak about climate change at prestigious events. She delivered speeches at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, and the European Parliament, as well as before the legislatures of Italy, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Her speeches resonated widely, drawing attention to the urgency of climate action and challenging world leaders to take meaningful steps.

One of the most memorable moments in Thunberg’s activism came in September 2019, during her appearance at a UN climate event in New York City. Thunberg’s speech at the UN event captured global attention as she accused governments of stealing her dreams and childhood with empty promises. Her words struck a chord, fueling a surge in climate strikes that mobilised millions of protesters across 163 countries that month.

Thunberg’s impact on public perception and behaviour surrounding climate change has been widely recognised, with her influence famously dubbed “the Great Effect.” Through her unyielding advocacy and willingness to challenge established norms, Thunberg has reshaped the discourse on climate action, emphasising the urgent need for collective responsibility and meaningful change.

Consistently Speaking Out

On April 6, 2024, at the age of 21, Greta Thunberg found herself in the spotlight once again, this time for her involvement in a demonstration in the Netherlands where she was detained twice by police. Thunberg and a group of fellow marchers took to blocking a main road to protest against fossil fuel subsidies—a direct action aimed at raising awareness about climate change issues.

According to reports, over 400 individuals, including Thunberg and twelve others on charges of incitement, were arrested during the protest. Despite the initial detention, activists later confirmed that Thunberg had been released.

Thunberg was initially held briefly by local police along with other demonstrators who were trying to block a major highway into The Hague. After her release, she joined a smaller group obstructing another road near the railway station. During this protest, Thunberg was detained again and taken away by police.

Her ongoing activism and readiness to challenge authorities show her strong dedication to advocating for urgent climate action. By taking these actions, Thunberg not only raises awareness about important environmental issues but also encourages others to join the fight against climate change.

Inspiring Young People

Despite facing criticism and even arrest, Greta Thunberg remains steadfast in her commitment to environmental activism and the urgent need to protect our planet. Many older individuals have been quick to dismiss her, labelling her as a know-it-all and suggesting she should live a more conventional childhood. Some famous critics of Thunberg include former U.S. President Donald Trump and Brazil’s far-right leader Jair Bolsonaro. (Checkout How Climate Change is Affecting Young People the Most)

Thunberg’s message is clear: humanity must take immediate action to combat climate change, as our planet faces increasing pollution and environmental degradation due to human activities. She tirelessly encourages young people to raise their voices and take a stand for their future, urging governments to prioritise nature conservation over economic interests.

For teenagers, Thunberg serves as an inspirational figure—an embodiment of the idea that age is not a barrier to making a difference. Her activism began at a young age, highlighting the power of youth in advocating for change. Thunberg’s unwavering dedication and fearlessness in challenging world leaders have resonated deeply with young people worldwide, empowering them to take action and demand a sustainable future for generations to come.

For more stories about inspirational persons, check out George Goh Ching Wah: The Successful Journey from Factory Sweeper to Billionaire.

George Goh Ching Wah: The Successful Journey from Factory Sweeper to Billionaire

Nadya Sharfina · March 18, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"The success of George Goh Ching Wah demonstrates that early struggles can pave the way to extraordinary achievements."

George Goh Ching Wah stands tall among global business success stories. Yet, beneath the polished exterior of his achievements lies a tale of humble beginnings. Emerging from a poor family background, George Goh Ching Wah’s early years were far from easy street. It was precisely these early struggles that forged the path to the remarkable success he enjoys today.

Goh’s journey proves that hard work pays off. His story offers hope to those who feel trapped by their circumstances, highlighting the power of perseverance and dedication in achieving success.

Early Life and Education

Born on November 25, 1959, in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, George Goh Ching Wah faced the harsh realities of poverty from an early age. As the seventh child in a family of nine, Goh grew up in humble surroundings, with a lorry driver father and a mother who tended to their household. Their financial struggles forced them to give up two of their daughters. At the age of 16 years old, Goh dropped out of school and joined his elder sister in Singapore, where she worked as a household helper.

With limited options available, he secured a job as a sweeper at a shoe factory in Geylang, earning only $15 per week. While the work was far from glamorous, it gave the means for him to aid his family and help them get through difficult times.

Entrepreneurial Journey

George Goh Ching Wah’s entrepreneurial journey began at a relatively young age, when he founded his first business, DeClassici Shoe Manufacturer, at the age of 22. This bold step into the world of business laid the groundwork for the flourishing career that lay ahead of him. Despite his youth, Goh possessed a relentless drive to achieve, an attribute that would later become the hallmark of his success.

Goh co-founded Ossia International Limited in 1990, marking a significant milestone in his entrepreneurial career. Under his leadership, the company grew and eventually became publicly listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange in 1996. His strategic vision and managerial prowess catapulted Ossia International to new heights, establishing him as an impressive business leader.

Goh expanded his goals beyond local bounds in 1999, teaming with Gerry Harvey, the well-known worldwide retailer, to form Harvey Norman Ossia. With a joint investment of $S33 million, this cooperation made an indelible impression on the Asian retail landscape, demonstrating Goh’s ability to navigate and succeed in the international business sector.

In 2003, Goh demonstrated his commitment to environmental sustainability by co-founding United EnviroTech, a firm specializing in wastewater treatment. This initiative showcased his approach to business, demonstrating his understanding of the importance of corporate responsibility and environmental care in today’s world.

Always eager to explore new horizons, Goh moved into real estate, forming Ossia Land, the property section of Ossia International Limited, in collaboration with other property businesses. This diversification into real estate broadened his corporate portfolio, reinforcing his reputation as a versatile and prominent player in both the business and real estate worlds. George Goh Ching Wah’s entrepreneurial trajectory demonstrates his unwavering desire, innovative attitude, and drive for excellence.

Impact on Society

Photo by Kua Chee Siong on straitstimes.com

George Goh Ching Wah’s life story exemplifies endurance and determination. From humble beginnings as a struggling child worker, he defied the odds to emerge as a titan of entrepreneurship in Singapore. Goh’s early struggles fed his will to succeed, providing the framework for his future endeavors. Despite various challenges, he persevered in his pursuit of achievement.

In 2015, Goh and his wife started a new business by co-founding Border Mission Limited, a charitable organization that helps elderly cardboard collectors and people with disabilities in Singapore. Their missions of charity did not end there; they expanded their reach to distant communities in the Himalayas, displaying their commitment to making a difference beyond boundaries.

Through his multifaceted contributions to both business and society, Goh has left an enduring legacy in Singapore. His journey from humble beginnings to notable success is a testament to his unwavering resolve and the opportunities he seized along the way. Goh’s impact is truly remarkable and his story serves as a beacon of hope for budding entrepreneurs and philanthropists. It highlights the incredible strength found in perseverance and compassion, showing that with determination and kindness, one can overcome any obstacle. Goh’s journey is a testament to the idea that challenges can be turned into opportunities, and that even in the face of adversity, one can make a lasting difference in the world.

For more stories about inspirational persons, check out Greta Thunberg’s Influence on Today’s Teen Climate Activists.

Helen Keller: Beyond Silence and Darkness

Rebecca Samuel · April 8, 2023 · Leave a Comment

"Life is either a great adventure or nothing."

- Helen Keller

Helen Adams Keller was an advocate for persons with disabilities, a lecturer, activist and author. She accomplished all of these feats, completely blind and deaf. Born in 1880 in Alabama, USA, she lived in a time when persons with disabilities had very few resources to turn to, and when they were mostly ignored. Read on to find out how Helen Keller beat all the odds to live a fulfilling life.

Around the tender age of nineteen months, Helen Keller lost both sight and hearing after a terrible illness. Until the age of 7 years old, she moved around almost animal-like, angry with everyone and everything, bumping into things or eating her meals like a dog. Nobody in her family could get her to behave or understand what was going on around her, and indeed, were at a loss. A governess, Anne Sullivan appeared on the scene at this time, and the story of how she managed to teach, tame and transfer knowledge to Helen Keller became fodder for a play, ‘The Miracle Worker’ which has since been adapted into Oscar winning movies as well.

Anne Sullivan brought a doll as a present on her first day at the Kellers. Her first task involved teaching the sightless Helen the word ‘doll’ by spelling it into her hand. Helen was of course incredibly frustrated, there was no way of communicating to her that each object or person had a unique word to describe them. When Anne tried to teach Helen the word ‘mug’, Helen actually broke the mug in annoyance, as she had no idea what was going on. When interviewed later on, she would explain that she was just following along, making gestures with her hands as taught, but with no clue as to why she was being forced to make such odd signs.

Helen’s breakthrough came when Anne was running cool water through her hands, and then it appeared to click. The word being spelt into her hand was ‘water’! In her own words: “I stood still, my whole attention fixed upon the motions of her fingers. Suddenly I felt a misty consciousness as of something forgotten — a thrill of returning thought; and somehow the mystery of language was revealed to me. I knew then that w-a-t-e-r meant the wonderful cool something that was flowing over my hand. The living word awakened my soul, gave it light, hope, set it free!”

Anne Sullivan would become Helen’s life-long companion, while Helen would go on to become the first deaf-blind person to obtain a Bachelor of Arts degree. She even learnt to speak, and ‘hear’ using the Tadoma method, to read using Braille and to communicate with fingerspelling. She travelled to 25 countries, giving motivational speeches wherever she went about conditions for the deaf. Helen penned and published 12 books, advocated for women’s votes, pacifism, ending racism and more.

People often find the most inspiring aspect of Helen Keller’s life to be the fact that she accomplished so much despite being blind and deaf. I find that her achievements are impressive enough by themselves, even if she had not had any disability to speak of. May we all be inspired to live our best lives, no matter the circumstances.