Video Submission
I’m excited to share that I recently got a Distinguished Achievement Award in National Geographic Society’s 2025 Slingshot Challenge, a global program recognizing youth who are taking bold steps to protect the planet. This honor was awarded by the National Geographic Society in partnership with the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation.
Out of more than 2,700 submissions from over 5,700 youth across 96 countries, only 15 projects were recognized. I’m incredibly honored to be one of the recipients and to have received a $5,000 grant in support of my work. I have used this grant amount to support Purbasha NGO’s first carbon project in Sundarbans.
As part of this recognition, I got invited to this year's iconic National Geographic Explorer's Festival in D.C, along with my parents with all our travel expenses covered!
It was amazing to meet and learn from the other awardees while exploring the diverse projects of the National Geographic explorers, each of whom approached environmental issues in unique ways. I particularly enjoyed learning about Wonderlab and its innovative storytelling methods, and connecting with its creator, Anand Varma, who emphasized the importance of sparking wonder and thinking outside the box—something that resonated deeply as I realized how crucial effective communication is in garnering support for environmental solutions. Presenting my own work during the youth exhibit on the last day was another highlight; it was incredibly motivating to see so many people praising my project and wishing for its success, which reminded me of how connecting a solution to the bigger picture can help others relate and engage. I also came to appreciate that true impact takes time, often years or even decades, and that staying dedicated is essential. Seeing how explorers from all kinds of backgrounds share a common mindset of curiosity, empathy, and a drive to make the world better left me inspired. Overall, this experience strengthened my desire to stay connected to National Geographic, with the hope of one day becoming a young explorer—and eventually, an explorer—myself.
IASAS Scholar Award, 11th grade
The IASAS Scholar Award is awarded to students who have participated in at least two of the IASAS events held during the current school year, have achieved Scholars List status, and exhibited exemplary behavior.
I received the IASAS Scholar Award this year for being part of IASAS Debate and Art, both activities that give me so much joy. I tremendously enjoyed visiting Taiwan for the IASAS competition.
Excellence Award in AT Environmental Science, 11th Grade
For my performance in the AT Environmental Science course at school, I received the Excellence in Science award and the Excellence Course certificate presented to the best performing student.
Excellence Award in English
10th Grade
For my performance in the English 10 course at school, I received the Excellence in English award and the Excellence Course certificate presented to the best performing student.
Excellence Award in Accelerated Biology
9th Grade
For my performance in the Accelerated Biology course at school, I received the Excellence in Science award and the Excellence Course certificate presented to the best performing student.
Connor O'Gormon Award Nominee
I was nominated by my peers for the Connor O’Gorman Cornerstone Award. This award is given through popular vote and is presented to students who best exemplify the Singapore American School core values, Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, Fairness and Compassion.
Art competition
I was very excited to participate and win silver in World Heritage Painting Competition in Singapore.
National Youth Achievement Award
I am a recipient of Singapore’s National Youth Achievement Award Gold, the highest award given to youth in recognition of 160 hours of service learning, outdoor appreciation, community leadership and healthy living over 4 years of high school.
