I'm Not A Label: From Gang To ITE To NUS Graduate, Now Social Worker

[@AlexisXen]

I’ve seen Gary around in school over the past few years (especially in UTown) Just thought he was a student with cool tattoos, and sometimes I would see him studying and cheer him on silently. Never thought that I would be seeing him here. Congratulations on graduating!! You’re an inspiration, truly. :)

[@jo3ltng]

Knew him in NYP, one of the most genuine person I know. Would say hi with actual happiness in his voice. Glad to see him doing so well!!

[@jokerholic2422]

Glad to see Gary's success in turning around his live and now helping others to do the same. Credit also to those who had helped him and believed in him. Another inspiring story from CNA - well done.

[@nulnoh219]

Really impressed with the safety nets and support schemes. Good to know that Help is available.

[@chinhao1301]

dude even carried out a small pre-post study with his volunteer group while doing his final year stuff just cos he was curious. mad respect for always hustling to learn on his own

[@alycialow]

I feel that nowadays tattoos are getting more socially acceptable and more people see it as a form of art now rather than associating it with gangs or any other bad notions. I would love to see more content like this! I’m also a ITE graduate and went on to complete my private degree. Looking forward to see Gary’s great contribution to the society and to those who are struggling, don’t give up!

[@TestTest-ev3nd]

I admire Gary's grit, perseverance and resilience as he transformed himself from being a social reject as a delinquent to being academically inclined with an honours degree from NUS in social work. Despite being physically unacceptable with all his body tattoos, he managed to stand tall in the society as a living testimony to all of us to embrace rehabilitations and hope for those who face challenges and vissitudes of life. Social support and advocates for 2nd chance are keys to helping people in the society like Gary. This is truly an inspiration video to all of us and those who are in similar situation like Gary. God bless you Gary, my best wishes and regards.

[@Jay-ru2cw]

Amazing video. Very authentic and real. I agree with him that society is materialistic and it is sad to see how majority of the society rejects individuals when they are at their lowest points. Thankfully there are people who are willing to lend a helping hands to others when they are at their lowest point and believe in them. May there be more people to see the food in others and continue to see the potential in people especially when they are at their lowest. Such belief and support is so important and can be life changing. Thanks CNA insider for producing such meaningful videos.

[@natacreation2307]

was about to lose hope, but after watching this i think i'll try to find my way back. thank you.

[@Shin-jk7ki]

Hang in there! Will keep you in prayers! Gary is a living testimony that things can change if you keep on living not losing hope! Take care!

[@rkq7112]

Gary you talked about acceptance from society. There will always be people who will put you or others down for no reason. You’ve come so far already, further than many and have achieved much more than many people who are older than you. I don’t know you personally but I’m proud of you and accept you unconditionally.

[@tabithachee1020]

you can actually tell his remorse from the way he talked.. im so happy for him that life did turn up well for him after suchh a long journey!

[@rudylopez5060]

We salute this guy. An inspiring story. There is definitely light at the end of the tunnel. Just dun give up.

[@abramswee]

I understand his pain. while my academic journey as hard as his, I did part-time study and work full-time for 15 years, for my adv diploma, degree, master, postgrad law cert and phd. I only managed to complete my phd at the age of 55. Bloody arduous.

[@xiaoming9818]

Cute

[@c.130]

Respect! I'm mid 30s but give up on degree lo

[@SiaanLala]

Jia you!

[@aaraonhon]

Society can be unforgiving. Glad you persevered and having faith Gary!

[@remyfan]

What an inspiring story. Thank you CNA for covering this meaningful piece. I am also very proud to learn that ITE College East is a part of Gary's progression and success in his career, well-being and life in general. ITE - In to EXCEL!

[@toothpick7035]

The most genuine person for sure.

[@queenpushycat]

Really love what he said about how he wants his youths to be better than him. Mentors' success comes from their protege being better than them. Good on you, Gary! Well done!

[@mathewlovegod]

Never look down and judge people in society, good job and proud of you Gary! 👍✌️

[@gniklaus4100]

He graduated with the highest distinction in social work!!! Absolute legend! Inspiring.

[@ayieespinoza6013]

Knew him in ITE 2013-2014, from then on we all knew he’s gonna be somebody everyone can look up to💯

[@jag4064]

So proud of him. A young guy with kindness in him

[@frankieteo6659]

Congratulations for staying strong and keep up the good mentality. God Bless.. Cheers..

[@naan000]

I hope they do more interviews like this, it's really interesting to hear from all sorts of people in sg!

[@ChuDust]

He has such an adorable personality!!

[@lycan2494]

no he doesn't

[@zen2808]

A proud Singaporean son.. Your mum must be very proud of you.. All the Best.

[@zoeng9026]

I love this so much and you’re so amazing Gary. For standing tall and pushing through what seems impossible. I myself come from a low income family where my dad had a gambling addiction. I’m also a single child and it’s really hard sometimes to feel a lot of the pressure in my own hands. My mom does not a high education either, only studied till secondary school. But I told myself I can do it, if what it takes is harder work and longer journey, I have to do it for myself. And in turn, I hope to be a beacon of hope to those that has their own hardships and feeling hopeless. The trick is to ignore naysayers and focus on the kind of life I want to build for myself. I’m glad to learn a lot throughout the years and just remember to stay genuine. Some things you just can’t understand unless you been through it.

[@violetsng8554]

Wishing you all the best in your future.👍💪

[@IKEMENOsakaman]

Wow! When I went to ITE, my parents told me "It's The End". Now I can tell them, see, it's not the end!

[@kelvinickable]

The education system is designed so that it provides anyone from education level an opportunity to rise through education levels. But truth is, not everyone has that same tenacity to study all the way till the top.

[@csy897]

@@kelvinickable tbh don't need to. ITE is a very good start to skill-based fields that don't require you to have a degree. In the new economy now, having skills is often times more valuable than an academic degree. I mean, degree you can always get your company to pay for you in future. Seeing the situation in China now, honestly speaking ITE was a very good investment for our country's future. And personally, what I'm doing now pays way more than what my degree was good for. The cert that taught me the skills to get me into my job now is probably worth less than an ITE cert.

[@xxDxxism]

You need better parents. Mine didn't even tell me that lol I just naturally progressed to Poly cos ITE is where I found my footing

[@NoelCon100]

My teacher's back in sec sch also do smth similar. Like they would say stuff like "Wah you want to go ITE issit?" kind of bs.

[@cathdan]

Dun be fooled by those 1% example. Ite is the end.

[@calvinchua9131]

Amazing tenacity and resilience. Well done!

[@mtktkt3773]

so extremely proud of you Gary, you are going to do great things in this world. keep going.

[@thesage6996]

He will be the best pai kia rehabilitator.

[@ss.2383]

kudos to Gary and continue staying true to yourself!

[@preeeedeeee]

You're an inspiration to so many people now, and much more in the future. Thank you for shining your light on this world, Gary.

[@facobasten1984]

Very... deeply inspirational. Am lost for words. Am happy u r where u are today.

[@waynelau3256]

None of them are bad people, they may have taken a different path, but in the end as humans we come from the same beginning and end the same as well.

[@gill77771]

Beyond proud of you, Gary

[@janzoowan]

worked w gary in y1 for our fass module, was very inspired by his story! Great meeting him :)

[@Dan_Dan_Dan24]

Society, Relatives, Friends have all let you down but your Mother was there for u....congratulations

[@Shin-jk7ki]

Gary thank you for your sharing! It has not been easy for you but you are always so wiling to help others.. do remember to practice self care and may God bless you richly!

[@kuraila]

This is really a great inspiration for people who thought ITE was the end. I m also from ite :)

[@innakang5089]

Seen a lot of friends like Gary, my mum wpuld tell me to avoid friends like him but i learnt I can’t be bothered where they come from, its what they do now or wanna do in the future that matters

[@shinhwaleo]

When there is fire in your heart for the community group you care about. Not " my hand very itchy". Your life experiences is a gifted. And be the light for other in the darkness.

[@liteo57]

Life's a journey, for many it's very much like a rollercoaster, with high & low moments as well as twists along the way. Success is overcoming each challenge one at a time.

[@ahteooo]

Respect bro. Best of luck in the future !

[@kys4160]

Hi, Gary. Thank you for your candid sharing. I have respects for how you stand up again when you fell and not give up. Happy that you are doing social work. I believe your sincerity, efforts and your life experiences will help you to be a great social worker. Maybe we will cross paths in our social work journeys. Take care :).

[@alanwong6293]

How many got the courage to spill out everything like him?

[@piggieluv92]

I think for him to be an Social workers to help someone that had similar situation in the past tbh . I think he is perfect one as a Social workers den any social worker . I hope there is one part to see how he works .

[@benjii16]

Now I have someone to look up to finally

[@brendasays2324]

I wish nothing but the best for you journey in making change happen.. #teamGary

[@MarcusYeow]

Good man! keep up the good work

[@Mr.Lin2049]

You are great inspiration! Well done! Keep it up!

[@VictorThang-b5p]

U are the people mind to change and excel ❤

[@BarryWaterlow]

Very creative guy and a very inspiring accomplishment.

[@victoriachen6879]

so awesome!

[@ogapadoga2]

Those who have tattoos chose to live life in hard mode. And this being said they are the real men.

[@Crazyfork121]

The moment I saw the thumbnail I recognised him, I’ll always remember him and his story. I came across his book, “I Am Not a Label, I Am Gary”, years ago and his story really moved me, especially because I’ve been struggling a lot with everything so his story struck a chord with me and inspired me, and has stuck with me ever since. I ended up buying his book as I wanted to support him, and you can support him that way too if you like. I appreciate how candid and genuine he his, and I’m equally moved, if not more, than when I first read about his story a few years back. It touches me how determined and hardworking he is while overcoming so many obstacles, and the fact that he wishes for youths to do even better than him in future. While on this topic, I really hope to see more of us playing our part to achieve a much more understanding, accepting and embracing society in the near future, so that people like Gary will be able to be who they really want to be, with much less resistance and obstruction inflicted upon them by society. It's time we see people for who they really are. A huge thank you to Gary for all the work he's doing for our youths and the inspiration he provides, and to all of the people who believed in him and helped him in his journey. All the very best to Gary and everyone who’s on a similar path, including everyone who’s currently struggling. Be clear of who you are and what you’re doing and you’ll never be a label (referring to not allowing anyone’s label of us to define us; whether others choose to label us or not is out of our control, and frankly doesn’t matter)

[@kikilala4313]

May I know where can I buy his book?

[@ThaoThanh-mm8tt]

Please tell me where I could get his book?

[@dufreversi42]

I think this guy is special, fantastic. But with more knowledge, understand more, he gets sad more because he see more things that others could not. I think he will enjoy more of life raising up kids himself. Helping your kid avoid the same mistakes made or mistakes other people made to him. Maybe he will see more meaning to life. Good luck.

[@akeelaboomful]

Eh my coursemate in ITE. Hi Gary. So happy to see u become a Social Worker!

[@thomaschiang]

Need more people like him to share to those young people's, as you know those young people's don't know what is correct or wrong during their point of time. But I also hope government can share some of topic about what is life if those Young people's gone wrong way what will happen to them.

[@sinneruki]

All the best!!

[@studytimelapseforyou]

Him feeling guilty for making the guy half blind already earned my biggest respect...

[@TheRandomqwert]

Amazing! Respect.

[@Albert_Einstein_not]

Very inspiring

[@Bu5es]

"a gang may widen your social circle but it could also widen your chances of dying"

[@sagekevin6473]

😂😂

[@rinne7244]

Lmfaoooo

[@instinctzingjj8266]

Here is an example that someone from an ex gang didnt died n doing better than us

[@albertranara3996]

Hope to hear him in TED Singapore

[@gekchinglee5536]

Woot! Go Gary!!! If you see this, know that I’m rooting for you :-)

[@SuperAMc7]

Amazing ending 😂😂😂😂

[@frogfoot1653]

Salute to you .. from bali

[@HockOoiOng]

Big ups to him

[@studytimelapseforyou]

1:48 haha omg I always like to stare at others' tattoo because they look so cool 😭😅

[@kohciqingkafiya4764]

Lol funny guy - he said his very tired talking. Cos u are so brilliant that everyone wants to hear from u . Like me …. I haven’t got a chance like u to even complete my sec 1 from Braddell secondary school - ( though I’m from technical stream ) - Cos of family problems no one to advocate my situation back in 1980s even reported police case ….. when I’m p5, my mom had to run away from my dad from his reprehensible acts…. I admired u that u had this opportunity to do this still for u today…. Many folks aren’t as lucky as u…. It doesn’t matter if u have tattoos. How I hope time can be reset…..

[@zahraboudidah9334]

okies listen up. My friends and I are Muslim, we are forbidden from getting tattoos (some sects anyway), but lemme tell ya, if we pass by someone with tattoos - good ones (like yours la) we would look (not stare, since that too is not allowed, but we would look) cause we really find them really pretty. like, we wouldn't be like "the unbeliever has tats look at that" no we would be like "mashallah, those really suit him/ her really brings out their feature/ possible character" of course, I am not referring to those that seem to have tattoos on just to intimidate (usually those are in huge groups with gold chains and rude behavior, which is scary to foreign girls but anyway...) not all stares are bad, some of us are just admiring the art. that's all.

[@juniorjr5328]

Inspirational. Please contribute to the society

[@isabelgoh5371]

Hello Gary ! Jiayou jiayou jiayou!

[@faz8027]

Im in love with this guy

[@takoyakiiii]

GO GARY GO

[@JackThePro]

Survivorship bias. He is lucky to have the opportunity to study social work through referral from his previous social worker. He has a supportive mother as well. While I admire his tenacity to make full use of the opportunities to turn things around, most youths from similar backgrounds just fall through the cracks.

[@thenatureedits8089]

THats what he is trying not to allow to happen.

[@JackThePro]

One person is not enough to change the social fabric especially in the context of sg. It takes more than a person of figure or connections.

[@JackThePro]

Most youths from such backgrounds usually come from dysfunctional families. While I agree it also depends on the youth's action, opportunities are also limited due to social stigma. It is also difficult for them to come out of their bubble due to the lack of positive influences in their lives.

[@sk8tergal995]

sorry to say but this is just undermining the fact that he actually took time and effort to get to where he is today. If he didn’t want to work hard to create a better life for himself, he would have been on a less fruitful path even with the support he has been given. Everyone makes their own decision ultimately, and this was his to turn over a new leaf to have a better future for himself.

[@JackThePro]

It's not my intention to undermine his hard work. I did say that I admire his tenacity to turn things around. My issue is the role of the media putting him in the pedestal, making the general public assume that if youths like him work hard, they can be like him as well. When in fact, working hard may just not be enough to succeed.

[@spanksmcgee]

Lau if you read this, thank you. You are an inspiration, and we need more people like you. Thankyou for your story.

[@GuestdaBom]

steady

[@22Harponyo]

We shouldn't cheer him on because he did cause someone to become blind you know. Imagine someone you love became blind because of him.

[@seanlim222]

Even someone like him with an ite cert also can graduate from nus. And yet me with a IB diploma cert cannot even apply to any of the courses that nus has to offer (even the ones with the lowest entry requirements). Fyi, I applied 3 times for 3 years throughout my national service and all were rejected. Eventually had to study in a private university.

[@arieladelinechoo9845]

You have to speak well not because you are in uni. You speak well because mastering a language is a reflection of your intelligence, the begining of how your thoughts are formed and expressed logically, accurately, appropriately.

[@viiviizzz]

according to this, i guess i must ask my language teachers to teach me math/physics and computing logic. or even philosophy reasoning

[@biqi6973]

@@viiviizzz 😂

[@jannoriko7465]

Nice

[@bensonyp]

Would like to ride with you some day Gary !! See you soon

[@Ibekkeivv]

u just made me think ppl w tattoos are the same and they're cute too

[@anziar3038]

It is critical to take the correct path right from the beginning.

[@cryptoleprechaun5492]

Good job on striving to be better but be careful not to let others use u as a token

[@---qu9uf]

He can be a Balenciaga Model.

[@kaffir76]

Baby face ❤❤ (minus tattoos lah)

[@gothicpinkk]

Rejected from enrolment due to the tattoos? That should be illegal.

[@druzzi9054]

im just curious regarding rejection from courses due to tattoos. Tattoos don't determine whether one can study or not, its about the desire and will. And are schools even allowed to reject someone due to tattoos?

[@valenciasrei8105]

Skill schools are building their students to work immediately after the course ends, and unfortunately most jobs in certain industries would reject employees with visible tattoos/bright coloured hairs/not presentable appearance, just like how certains jobs doesn't allow employees to have accessories when working(earrings/necklace/bracelet etc.). A few tattoos peaking out is fine with most, but his is visible and on large range. Sad about that, but understandable from both sides.

[@hafizgoodchill]

What does degree got anything to do with sucess

[@lalakuma9]

Honestly if he just goes to a western country, he'll easily be mistaken as a cool hipster, not an ex-gangster.

[@BestFoodReviewFeatured]

Wa bro, last time you use to bully me, now you degree bully ah. Ups sia you.

[@rinne7244]

Fr he used to bully you?

[@BestFoodReviewFeatured]

@@rinne7244 ya bro, he always take my pencil box and hide my bag when I go toilet

[@wangjinwen7708]

Not only is he labelled he is tiok mark

[@edng3491]

I like. Cute sia. I like bad boys like this

[@kyancaitlynandjeron3342]

W spongebob tatto

[@maduumanis]

He's cute😬😬😬😬❤️❤️❤️

[@jajalulujaju]

meanwhile my asian mom 🙂🙂🙂

[@jarrodyuki7081]

Remove your tattoos……….

[@cathdan]

Him making into nus does not change the fact that he has done terrible things to people in the past. He is a bad person no matter what.

[@goodboybenji95]

gangster sio