Forbes Unveils Its 30 Under 30 Asia Edition—And Things Are Growing!
Forbes has rolled out its 30 Under 30 Asia roster once again. This time around, the spotlight spans 13 categories—up from the 10 we saw back in 2017. It’s a sign that the Asian startup and creative scene is brimming with fresh talent.
Singapore’s Rising Stars
There’s a noticeable uptick in the number of honorees hailing from the Lion City.
A few of them are déjà vu for many of us—if you’re reading this, you’ve likely encountered their work on Vulcan Post before. Big kudos to those folks for making it onto the list.
Rolling Through the List
Let’s give a quick, celebratory tour of the winners. Think of it as a highlight reel for the next generation of innovators.
THE ARTS
- Jackson Aw (28) – “Mighty Jaxx”
Jackson’s the man behind the “Mighty Jaxx” brand, turning everyday life into something that feels almost superheroic. His ingenuity shows how creativity can spark a movement.
And that wraps our snapshot—keep your eyes on these rising figures; they’re sure to keep reshaping their industries. Cheers to the future!
Mighty Jaxx: From a Tiny Bedroom to a Global Powerhouse
Picture this: a 4‑year‑old startup, Ruby‑red dreams, and a $20,000 boot‑strap in Jackson Aw’s cramped bedroom.
Dreaming Big in a Small Space
Back in 2012, Jackson Aw got involved with a little loan, a keen vision, and a whole lot of determination. The result? Mighty Jaxx, a company that birthed thousands of collectible figures sold to toy lovers across 50 countries.
Collaboration Magic
- DC Comics – blending superhero tales with figurine art.
- New Balance – stepping into the world of sports gear meets collectibles.
- Renowned Artists – turning imagination into sculpted reality.
Aw’s current playground is a multi‑million dollar venture, yet he never forgets his humble beginnings.
Advice for the Aspiring Do‑er
“Money isn’t the goal—it’s just a by‑product. The real winner is the relentless chase of your vision. That’s the place to be.” – Jackson Aw
He’s all about turning ideas into action, proving that success is earned by sticking to what you’re passionate about.
Looking Ahead
With dreams gigantic enough to wear a hoodie, Aw is excited to expand collaborations and craft fresh original content for the coming years.
Meet Jingna Zhang: From Shooting Targets to Shooting Cameras
Picture this: a little girl named Jingna Zhang growing up in bustling Beijing, surrounded by her family’s love for sports. When she turned eight, she hopped on the suitcase and landed in sunny Singapore – a fresh start and a new school, Raffles Girls’ School. It’s where she first dipped her hand into air‑rifle shooting, turning quick‑fire aim into a prodigious skill set.
Sports Superstar to Fashion Enthusiast
Within just nine months, Jingna shattered her first national record and earned a spot on the national team. Six years later she was smashing additional records at international competitions. The run‑down seemed set: a celebrated sporting legend. But fate had other plans for her.
- At 18, she discovered photography not as a pastime but an obsession.
- She swapped her sniper sights for a camera lens, leaving her school work and even the national team behind.
- Her passion took off fast enough that she went from hobbyist to full‑time photographer.
Not Just Photos – A Rising Star in the Fashion World
Today, Jingna runs her own creative empire. She’s front‑lined several eye‑catching exhibitions and worked with high‑profile brands such as Mercedes‑Benz and Canon. She’s shot editorial spreads that grace the glossy pages of Elle and Harper’s Bazaar. Every click tells a story that’s as bold and engaging as her own journey.
Fun Fact!
From shooting targets to shooting people, Jingna’s career proves that you can aim for greatness in any field – just make sure your “gun” is a camera or a dream.
Akim Arhipov: The Estonian Entrepreneur Who’s Mixing Blockchain with Singaporean Flair
Who is Akim Arhipov?
Akim Arhipov is a savvy Estonian entrepreneur now calling Singapore home. He’s the brain behind Data Depot, a data and analytics startup that’s turning the financial world on its head.
His Game-Changer: BAASIS ID
- What it does: A blockchain-powered tool that helps banks and other financial services verify and safely store customer data.
- Super‑charged features: Facial‑recognition, passport & ID checks, bank account validation, and sanctions screening.
- Why it matters: Cuts down on regulatory headaches, fraud, and protects business reputations.
National‑Level Tech Projects
Akim’s team has been instrumental in:
- Building Estonia’s electronic ID system and eGovernment portals.
- Developing an electronic identification system for Bahrain citizens.
Serial Success
He’s not just a one‑time hit. Before Data Depot, Akim co‑founded:
- OnniBus.com – a travel tech venture that made bus rides smarter.
- SuperBus.com – another transport startup that followed the bus‑themed trend.
The Little‑Known Team
Although names like Louis Liu (24) and Zack Yang (24) don’t ring bells, they’re part of the quirky FOMO Pay crew, contributing to the vibrant tech ecosystem.
Bottom Line
Akim Arhipov is the kind of entrepreneur who turns complex tech into everyday solutions, combining Estonian precision with Singapore’s dynamic pace. If you’re looking for a trustworthy identity solution with a sprinkle of blockchain magic, BAASIS ID might just be your next favorite tool.
Meet the “Cashless Guru” of Southeast Asia: FOMO Pay
In 2015, two tech‑savvy visionaries, Zack Yang and Louis Liu, launched FOMO Pay, a company that’s been turning the cash‑centric world of Asia into a digital playground. Their goal? To help merchants, from local street stalls to luxury boutiques, ditch the dusty till and accept money straight from customers’ favourite e‑wallets.
How It Works (and Why It Matters)
FOMO Pay’s magic lies in a simple QR‑code system. Merchants display a QR on their counter, customers scan it with apps such as WeChat Pay, GrabPay, mVisa, or NETSPay, and the payment flows instantly—no card, no extra fees, no waiting. It’s the same idea that the quick‑food hit “Grab” is already using for delivery orders, but FOMO Pay brings it to physical storefronts.
Who’s Onboard?
From telecom giants to café chains, FOMO Pay is already a go‑to for a diverse roster of companies:
- Telecom: StarHub delivers seamless QR‑payments for its customers.
- Tourism & Hospitality: Marina Bay Sands uses the QR system to make hotel check‑outs feel 10× faster.
- Fashion & Lifestyle: CHANEL’s Singapore pop‑up station now accepts digital wallets.
- Food & Beverage: JUMBO Seafood rolls out QR menus and payments, cutting down order times.
- Press & Media: Singapore Press Holdings serves news readers with cashless options at kiosks.
A Few Awards in the Boss’ Hall of Fame
FOMO Pay has been racked up a handful of industry awards—no stress, just a table of trophies on board a shiny little lunchbox. It’s a proud member of the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s SGQR taskforce, championing QR‑based payments for the nation.
So, the next time you’re grabbing a latte or watching a neon‑lit show in the city, look for the QR code. That little square might be the work of the dynamic duo, Zack and Louis—reminding us that, in the fast‑paced world of Southeast Asia, the future of money is as easy to scan as the next meme on our phone.
Jackie Tan: Turning a Personal Pain into a Financial Fix
In the world of finance, everybody loves the shiny, buzzword-filled jargon, but Jackie Tan’s journey started with a raw, real-life problem. His dad recently battled lung cancer and ended up with an insurance plan that just didn’t fit the bill – a classic case of “something for someone” that turned out to be a mismatch of catastrophic interest.
The Spark That Lit the Startup Fire
Jackie’s lightbulb moment? He realized that a friend’s dad (think “someone that …”) could have been a lot less embarrassed if the insurance had actually backed him up. Behind the scene, he thought, “Why not give people a smarter, not snappier way to find the right financial advisor?” That idea germinated into fundMyLife, an online platform that brings existing digital tools to the financial planning field.
How fundMyLife Works – Super Simple, Absolutely Human‑Centric
- Create Profile – Hey, you’re the main character. Just fill in the blanks.
- Ask Your Burning Questions – Think of it like a personal hotline. Tell us everything you want to know.
- The System Does the Heavy Lifting – Our algorithm sifts through thousands of advisers, finding those that best match your vibe.
- @@Three Answers, Three Opinions@@ – you’re presented with up to three distinct advisers. And they’re not just names; each comes with reviews to help you decide.
What This Means for the Everyday Investor
If you’re the type that thinks “financial planning is a maze and I’m always stuck at the bottom corner,” fundMyLife is your new playbook. It pops the complexity out of your hands, lets you pick a planner you like based on the docs and the anecdotes, and offers you a smoother ride toward your financial goals.
And that’s the story behind an idea that started with a father’s insurance hiccup and blossomed into a tool that could help countless people fine‑tune their finances with a click.
Electrify: Power‑Up Singapore’s Energy Shopping Experience
Julius Tan co‑founded Electrify – a cool new marketplace that lets you swipe right on your electricity provider.
With Singapore’s electricity market recently opened up, Electri‑fying your bill has become as easy as scrolling past a street‑style ad. Users can now compare plans, stack bundles, and pick green‑energy options without the usual fuss.
What the Start‑up Promised
In a chat we had last year, the team shared some juicy perks:
- 10‑30 % off on future bills.
- Grocery vouchers to keep your pantry stocked.
- Even cash rebates—because who doesn’t love a fresh dollar?
Track Record
Since March 2017, the platform’s already routed roughly $3.8 million through the “shopping cart” of Singapore’s power market.
Going Digital with Blockchain
Electrify isn’t just about tokens in your Power‑Gate; they’re eager to build a whole new marketplace on blockchain tech, promising both security and faster transactions.
The Big Raise
In a whirlwind sprint of less than ten days, the company pulled in $30 million by selling electronic currency tokens—proof that the Singapore market is buzzing and that people trust the brand.
So if you’re ready to ditch the old rates and enjoy a savings spree, Electrify might just be the power‑up you need.
A Tight‑Knit Look at Social‑Media Mavericks
Ever wonder who’s quietly shaping how we swipe, click, and live online? Meet the trio of scholars and startup whizzes turning the digital world upside down.
Dr. Crystal Abidin – The Cultural Sleuth
Crystal Abidin is the ultimate detective when it comes to internet culture and the “influencer” craze. With a PhD from the University of Western Australia (2016) and more than 70 grants under her belt, she’s not just a name on the shelf – she’s the one people text to understand why selfies and TikTok trends matter.
- 30+ peer‑reviewed papers that make her academic profile look like a Fitbit of achievements.
- Her insights get scooped by the international press whenever someone asks, “What’s the science behind being ‘on your phone’?”
- Current roles: Postdoctoral Fellow at Jönköping University, researcher with the Swedish Retail Council, and an adjunct at Curtin University’s Culture‑Tech hub.
She also coins up with businesses across Asia, Australia, and Europe, helping them build services that resonate with youth‑spirited crowds.
Milan Reinartz – The Ad‑Tech Trailblazer
Milan Reinartz is the Singapore‑based CEO of Postr, a nifty start‑up that revamps lock‑screen ads. Think of it like a “virtual billboard” that pops up when your phone’s locked – but here’s the twist: the ads unlock free data and minutes as a thank‑you.
Inspired by the U.S. company Locket, Milan’s mission is simple: “Make advertising more enjoyable – to make it great again. Or even make them love it again.”
“The opt‑in model makes people feel like they’re choosing the ads, not being slapped with them.”
Postr’s footprints: New Zealand, Singapore, Portugal, and partnerships with telcos like Spark, Hutchison, and Telkomsel.
Josephine Chow & Lai Shanru – The Cashback Kings
They’re two of the six visionary co‑founders behind ShopBack, Southeast Asia’s go‑to cashback portal. Imagine almost 1,000 orders per hour from 1,300 merchants and sales that hit S$408 million annually – that’s the engine heat.
Last November, a fresh round of US$25 million (led by Credit Saison, SoftBank Ventures Korea, Singtel Innov8, East Ventures, among others) pushed their cumulative funding to a whopping US$40 million.
Vincent Wong, Country Head for ShopBack Singapore, said:
“Our culture is ‘fail fast, learn fast, iterate faster.’ Failures are celebrated, not castigated. This keeps us agile, inventive, and always experimenting.”
Tushar Khandelwal – The Future‑Forward Fun‑Sayer
While there’s no extra scoop on Tushar’s triumphs, his presence in the retail & e‑commerce sphere reminds us that fresh ideas haven’t stopped evolving. Whether it’s Voyagin or another venture, his optimism shines through the world of shopping.
Bottom Line
From academia to street‑smart start‑ups, these leaders are the unsung heroes behind the tech that powers everyday life. They remind us that every swipe, tap, and click is an invitation to rethink, iterate, and maybe, just maybe, smile at the ads that end up on our phone’s lock screen.
Tushar Khandelwal – The Travel Maestro
Meet the guy who turns wandering into a well‑planned adventure. Tushar Khandelwal is the co‑founder and COO of Voyagin, a slick marketplace that lets globetrotters discover, review, and book the best things to do, from stunning attractions to quirky local tours.
What Makes Voyagin Tick?
- Founded in 2012 right in the heart of Japan.
- Acquired by Rakuten a year later—yes, that big e‑commerce household.
- Now speaks six languages and accepts 19 currencies – the world really is your pocket.
- Offers instant booking with guest reviews so you never stay in a copycat hotel again.
From Tokyo to Singapore – That’s Tushar’s Life Story
He was born in India, but his childhood was all Japanese sushi and Tokyo’s neon glow. A college stint in New York gave him a taste of the West, and now he calls Singapore home.
Before Voyagin: The Startup Entrepreneur’s Playbook
Back in New York, Tushar cut his teeth at Social Bicycles and Producteev. Those days were all about spinning innovative ideas into reality, prepping him for his big move back to Asia.
Side Note
While we’re at it, shoutout to Keyis Ng (30) – Cafebond.com for sprinkling some extra flavor into the mix.
Cafebond.com: Brewing a Global Coffee Community
Keyis Ng and Eugene Chen hit the start line with a shared dream: make Melbourne’s legendary coffee culture accessible to coffee lovers around the world.
Meet the Founders
- Keyis Ng – former marketing pro who spent seven years rocking campaigns for Gucci, Google, and the like, before deciding that the fast‑paced marketing world wasn’t for him.
- Eugene Chen – longtime buddy of Keyis and the creative spark behind Cafebond.
From Marketing to Mugs
After stepping away from the marketing grind, Keyis felt a tug toward something more… aromatic. Eugene, always ready for a chat and a coffee, suggested they start a platform where beans become ideas.
The Spark of St Ali
It all began over a steaming cup at St Ali Coffee Roasters, a hot spot in Melbourne. “That bean knows the city’s soul,” they noted, and the idea for Cafebond was born.
Cafebond’s Mission
The duo wanted to send that “Melbourne vibe” straight into Singapore kitchens and beyond. Now, coffee enthusiasts worldwide can share their own bean stories, learn new techniques, and taste the world one cup at a time.
Funding & Growth
Since mid‑2016, Cafebond has attracted angel investors and venture capitalists, including Quest Ventures. The platform’s growth keeps scrolling up the latte foam charts.
Why It Matters
Coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a conversation starter, a cultural handshake, and sometimes the best excuse for a spontaneous trip. Cafebond is the place where every sip tells a story.
Secretlab: From Game Nights to $15M Sales
Picture this: two guys, a round table, and a mind full of gaming glory. Meet Alaric Choo (left) and Ian Ang (right), the dynamic duo behind Secretlab – the brand that’s turning gamers into chair‑lovers.
Revealed: The Game‑Day Diet of Successful Entrepreneurs
When we sat down with the founders last week, they dropped a bold confession: their collegiate degrees are dwarfed by their years of pumped‑up gaming. Turns out, those intense esports sessions weren’t just hobby—they were charge‑up fuel for building a company that now churns over $15 million a year.
Humble Beginnings (2015)
- Bootstrapped: No VC, no hype, just two creators and a vision.
- Instant Success: From a small startup to a household name in the PC‑gaming niche.
- Sales Snapshot: Mantained a growth curve so steep it’s a legend.
Credit‑Shame Culture
Despite the accolades, they laugh about not “praising themselves.” The crowd‑pleasing quote: “We usually don’t take time to pat ourselves on the back.” Sometimes that laugh comes from realizing you have to stay humble to keep the creative momentum alive.
The Self‑Competition Saga
They joked, “We turned ourselves into the toughest competition.” That internal battle is all about pushing past your previous creations, a never‑ending cycle of innovation. One may be a gamer now— another is a chair designer. Turn ambition into action.
So, next time you see your Secretlab chair, remember the gaming nights that simmered into success, the bootstrapped hustle, and the humorous, relentless drive that keeps the brand moving forward.
Meet the Mind Behind Jumper.ai
Nyha Shree is the fearless co‑founder of Jumper.ai, a platform that turns scrolling into sales.
Why Businesses Love Jumper.ai
Imagine your customers as fans who just hit the “comment” button on your social media post. Suddenly, Jumper.ai swoops in, replies instantly, and nails a sale—all at the same time.
It’s As Easy As Labeling a Shirt
- Choose a hashtag that’s relevant.
- Add your product details—just drop them in.
- When someone comments, the system auto‑responds.
- Pay in the chat via Stripe or PayPal, no fuss.
From Startup Dream to Industry Darling
Launched back in May 2017, Jumper.ai got its first boost through PayPal’s incubator program, then raced through Target USA’s acceleration. Over time, it’s snagged several startup awards.
Big Names, Big Impact
With a portfolio of more than 3,000 global customers, Jumper.ai is trusted by brands like Unilever, Uniqlo, and Disney. These giants know how to catch a customer’s eye—and keep it.
Tech Curve‑Whips: Dinesh Balasingam, The Chope Group
Age 29, Dinesh Balasingam is riding the same wave of innovation. He’s leading The Chope Group into the next era of consumer tech.
Chope: Singapore‑Styled Restaurant Magic
Dinesh Balasingam takes the helm as COO of Chope, the clever platform that was born in 2011 by founder and CEO Arrif Ziaudeen.
Just like its very Singaporean name, Chope is all about giving diners the easiest way to book a table at their favorite eats—without breaking a sweat.
What the Platform Does for Restaurants
- Table Management: Keeps track of every spot so the owners can maximise seating.
- Guest Recognition: Learns who’s who so the staff can greet regulars like family.
- Email Marketing: Sends out tasty promos that hit inboxes and bring diners back.
Bootstrapping the Growth
Dinesh didn’t just stumble into the world of tech. He left college in 2011, took a leap, and now plays a huge role in Chope’s rapid rise.
Global Footprint
- 8 cities across 5 countries: China, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Thailand and other locales.
Funding Milestone
In October last year, Chope secured a Series D round worth $13 million, giving the platform a financial boost to keep growing.
From a campus dropout to a crucial part of a thriving startup, Dinesh’s journey proves that sometimes the best recipe for success is a pinch of risk and a dash of creativity.
Meet Our Singapore Golden Girl: Yip Pin Xiu
From a five‑year‑old splasher to a Paralympic superstar
Picture this: a tiny paddling pro who, at the age of five, was already using her fins to outshine toddlers. Fast forward to age 12, and she’s competing in the same race where the rest of us are still figuring out how to undulate our arms.
- 3 Paralympic gold medals – every time she entered the pool, she turned heads and opened wallets.
- 1 IPC gold medal – showing that the world’s top athletes recognize the talent that always beat the clock.
- 2 world records in backstroke – because who doesn’t love a good time‑loss? Pin Xiu does.
A Life of Determination & Positivity
She didn’t just take the loss of walking in 2011 as a setback. Instead, she turned it into a story about resilience. According to her:
“There are some families where, because you are disabled, you are not allowed to do a lot of things. That will make people think even more about their disabilities and blame themselves for it… In my head, I don’t define myself as a person with disability.”
A quote that’s as blunt and heart‑warming as a splash of cold water on a hot summer day.
Off the Pool: Advocacy & Honors
- Young Woman Achiever of the Year – Her World’s magazine minted her a trophy for spreading light on disabled sports.
- Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Meritorious Service Medal) – Singapore’s National Day Awards gave her a ribbon, because her impact transcends the finish line.
Behind every triumphant stroke is a shouting squad – and her family is no exception. Their unwavering support made it possible for Yip to focus on her “pool game” rather than doubts about who’s going to front–seat “no‑go” situations. This triumphant team of parents, siblings, mentors, and coaches is the secret sauce behind her unstoppable drive.
Health & Wellness Spotlight
In exploring the wellness side of life, Adrian Ang (28) – a rising star in healthcare – shares his experience balancing a jam-packed schedule while staying fit. Episode highlights include:
- Daily morning runs that keep him community‑connected.
- Mind‑body exercises that help maintain mental agility among the physical demands of the profession.
Whether it’s swimming, coaching, or pushing the boundaries in healthcare, Yip Pin Xiu shows that you do not have to let a disability define your destiny. She’s not just a champion in the pool; she’s a champion of every story that refuses to be boxed.
Meet Adrian Ang – the Asthma-Wary Tech Wizard
Adrian Ang, the co‑founder and CEO of AEvice, is on a mission to make asthma a thing of the past for kids. Born and raised with asthma himself, he turned his own struggles into a powerful tech solution with his partners.
What’s the Gadget?
It’s called BioAsthma, a sleek wearable that listens to kids’ breathing like a super‑mindful ear. If it sneaks up on any strange lung noises, it immediately buzzes parents via a handy app, giving a warning that an attack is looming.
Background & Randomness
- Did you know he’s a serial entrepreneur? While tackling his electrical engineering degree at Nanyang Technological University, he launched two other startups.
- He didn’t stop there—he snagged an MSc in Technopreneurship & Innovation from the same university.
- All this experience feeds into his current passion for turning life‑saving tech into a reality for children.
Put together, Ang’s story is a blend of personal challenge, academic grit, and a dash of tech‑savvy ambition. His journey reminds us that if you can hold your own breath, you can hold a company in your hands.
Meet Dr. Dinesh Visva Gunasekeran – The Eye‑Health Trailblazer
Picture a doctor who’s travelled around the globe, delivered eye care in bustling cities and quiet villages alike, then stumbled on a simple truth: many folks simply don’t flag the warning signs of vision trouble. Dr. Dinesh Visva Gunasekeran turned that epiphany into a groundbreaking mission.
What’s the Idea?
He’s the brains behind VISRE, short for Vision Research & Education. Think of it as the “Netflix of eye screening” – an immersive digital experience that lets you spot eye‑disease symptoms from the comfort of your couch.
- Uses Augmented & Virtual Reality
- It’s a downloadable app you can tap into at any time
- Designed to be easy to use and educational
Why It Matters
When Dr. Dinesh volunteered conducting screenings for the under‑served, he noticed a startling pattern: people lacked basic knowledge about visual impairment. “I realized we were all in the dark, not because there was no tech but because there was no awareness,” he told us.
So, he built this immersive suite to swing wide the doors to early detection, aiming to transform “ignorance” into actionable insight for the masses.
Bottom Line
Dr. Dinesh’s journey from world‑wide ophthalmology to tech‑savvy humanitarian shows how a single app can turn heads, eyes, and futures. If you’ve never heard of your eyes working in a VR headset, you’re in for a wild, eye‑opening ride – literally!
Meet Duong Tong: The “Home‑Care Hero” Behind Homage
Duong Tong isn’t just a tech geek – he’s a real‑life superhero for Singapore’s seniors. As the co‑founder of Homage, he’s turning everyday caregivers into savvy micro‑entrepreneurs by fusing tech with compassion.
What Homage Does (and Why It Matters)
- In‑home care service: Homage connects seniors with trained, trusted professionals who can help with everything from medicine reminders to a friendly chat.
- Proprietary matching engine: Think of it like a smart matchmaking app—but instead of dates, it pairs seniors with the perfect caregiver.
- Micro‑entrepreneurship for caregivers: Caring becomes a side hustle, giving caregivers a chance to boost their income while doing good.
Funding & Recognition
In 2021, Homage pulled in a cool $1.2 million of seed money—a sign that investors see the future in senior care.
And if that’s not enough bragging rights, the company got a shout‑out at the 2017 National Day Rally by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong—pretty big deal in Tiong Koong.
Who’s Behind the Magic
Duong Tong is an alumnus of Singapore Management University (SMU). Today, he’s back on campus as an Advisory Board Member of the SMU Social Impact Accelerator, where he mentors the next wave of social enterprises.
Oh, and there’s also Esther Chunshu Wang (30) – possibly a fellow innovator tied to Homage or the accelerator. The name pops up in some circles, but the specifics are a bit fuzzy.
TL;DR
Duong Tong + Homage = awesome tech‑powered care for seniors + extra-earnings for caregivers. It’s a win‑win that’s winning hearts and headlines across Singapore.
Meet Esther Chunshu Wang: The Visionary Behind Joytingle’s “Rabbit Ray”
From Art Student to Innovation Hero
The Star: “Rabbit Ray”
“Innovation by design” – as praised by Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat in Parliament, 2016.
Why It Matters
Bold takeaway: Joytingle’s Rabbit Ray isn’t just a toy—it’s a passport to confidence when kids meet doctors.
Quick Snapshot
Endnote
So next time you see a bright, plush rabbit at a pediatric clinic, remember the brilliant mind who turned a doodle into a worldwide teacher. Esther has proven that with a dash of creativity and a pinch of daring, everyday objects can change the world—one child’s smile at a time.
Meet Min Hao Wong: The Plant Whisperer
Have you ever wondered what a farmer’s secret to a perfect harvest is? Min Hao Wong, the mastermind behind Plantea, has cracked the code. His startup’s nanosensors are like tiny detectives that sniff out a plant’s mood—whether it’s thirsty or ready to be scooped into the market.
What’s In a Tiny Sensor?
- Spray‑and‑go delivery: Instead of complex installations, the sensors come as a liquid solution that you can dimple onto leaves using a 3D‑printed spacer.
- One for the team: Just one sensor in every two fields is enough to keep the whole crop laughing, uh, I mean, thriving.
Subscription‑Style Farming
Plantea’s software is on a subscription model—think of it as a monthly “farm‑check” that alerts you when to water or when the harvest gates should swing open. No pricey one‑off contracts—just keep those data streams flowing.
Zero‑Stress, Self‑Adjusting Fields
Level up! Wong’s team is building smart farming environments where the sensors keep a pulse on conditions and tweak temperature, humidity, and light on the fly. The end game? Super‑efficient food production with less hand‑checking.
Why It Matters
Wong is not just an MIT grad; he doubles as the deputy scientific director at Singapore’s Center for Disruptive and Sustainable Technologies for Precision Agriculture. In short, the guy is bridging Silicon Valley (or Silicon Farm) and global food security.
Sidekick: Qin Yunquan, the Kapap Academy Whiz
(28) Qin Yunquan lends his youthful energy to the movement, ensuring that the next generation knows how to plant, monitor, and celebrate their harvest—without giving up their phone for a palm‑sized sensor.
Kapap Academy: A Self‑Defense Revolution for Women and Everyday Heroes
Meet Qin Yunquan, the fearless co‑founder behind Kapap Academy, a social enterprise that’s turning the tables on safety—one kick, jab, and lock at a time.
Why Kapap Academy Exists
- Empowerment Meets Simplicity: Realistic, intuitive self‑defence skills that even your grandma could master—no complicated jargon involved.
- Inclusive Mission: From school‑aged kids to senior citizens, anyone can learn to stand tall in a world that loves a good scare.
The Spark That Ignited It All
Qin teamed up with her mentor, Master Teo Yew Chye, a psychologist who turned a personal tragedy into purpose. After his brother was fatally attacked on the street, Teo realized ordinary people need more than luck to keep themselves safe.
A 2015 Snapshot
“More young women are breaking out of the traditional mold. They’re not waiting for a hero— they’re stepping onto the mat, ready for a catch‑wrestling match or two,” Qin told us back in 2015. The vibe? A modern femme fatale, in training.
Accolades That Make Us Proud
- Last year, Qin became the first and only self‑defence instructor to scoope the Queen’s Young Leaders Award. Royal recognition, literally.
- Her work has also found a place in the 30 Under 30 list—because safety isn’t just for veterans; it’s for the young and bold.
Industry Highlights for 2018
Healthcare turned out to be the star of the show, topping the 30 Under 30 list. And the spotlight on women? It kept growing, with more women showcasing stellar achievements across diverse fields.
Wrap‑Up
Kapap Academy isn’t just teaching moves; it’s building confidence, rewriting norms, and proving that everyone—yes, even your cautious cousin—can claim their personal space. Who knew safety could feel so empowering and, dare we say, a little badass?
Keep an eye out for more stories about pioneers like Qin, armoring us all one punch at a time.
