ANGELA TAN

Educator & Life Coach, Universe Arts Pte Ltd

(In her 40's)

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Her story (in her own words)

I'm a mother of two. Since young, my son, Jarett struggled to keep up in school and had low self-esteem. At 6, he was diagnosed with dyslexia and visual processing disorder. He has perfect eyesight, but he could not read, write or copy . We tried many ways to help him but to no avail. When he discovered his love for art, we encouraged him to apply his creativity in learning. With great perseverance and courage, his confidence began to grow. He has learnt to build on his strengths, and overcome his challenges. He was the first and youngest artist to represent Singapore in an international arts festival in Egypt. His story inspired many around the world. While holding a corporate job for 24 years, I was volunteering at social agencies. I conducted programs that focus on children's emotional wellbeing. I pursued an education in learning disorders management and child psychology to become an educator so that I can contribute more. I finally left my corporate job of 24 years to join the education field. Today, I teach students to be lifelong learners, and to have the confidence to communicate effectively.

 

I'm passionate about working with parents to foster strong bonds with their children and pave the way for their long term success and well-being. Through my personal journey as a person with dyslexia (and a parent to one). I realise our story can inspire other parents who are stuck in the same situation. The problem many parents face - is being overwhelmed, with a list of problems their child might have, and not knowing how to solve them. By labeling the child, we have a medical diagnosis. But the child still feels disconnected, which leaves parents frustrated, lost and helpless. Because if parents cannot guide their child, how can somebody else? I understand that helpless feeling, which is why I spent the last decade guiding and supporting parents to consciously parent their child and to deeply understand their child's needs. I finally left my corporate job to become an educator and personal life coach with a focus on providing guidance, practical tools, strategies, and the understanding that parents need to be their child's biggest advocate.

 

Greatest achievement:

For over two decades, I built my career in a demanding IT consultancy role in the financial services industry. My greatest achievement is deeply personal, revolving around my son Jarett's personal triumph. Diagnosed with dyslexia and Irlen syndrome (a visual processing disorder), Jarett initially struggled with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. Through dedication, empathy, and resilience, we navigated this journey together. Today, seeing Jarett thrive as an international artist, transforming his challenges into strength and inspiration, fills me with profound pride and joy. This journey with Jarett led me to switch careers into the education sector. Drawing from our experiences, I use my unique insight to create a more understanding and inclusive approach to learning that supports children facing similar challenges. The satisfaction derived from seeing these children succeed and develop, knowing I played a part, is an achievement that holds immense meaning to me.

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Biggest challenge thus far

in my mid-40s, I was diagnosed with the same learning disorders as my son, dyslexia and Irlen syndrome. This surprising discovery helped me make sense of the challenges I faced during my own education. However, it also makes me even more aware of the needs of many other children going through similar struggles. These experiences brought challenges that I had to face and conquer, but doing so has made me stronger and more resolute. They influence my journey to becoming an effective educator and a trusted partner for my students in their learning journey.

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