When he was five years old, Mr Michael Ngu contracted polio and became paralysed in both legs, but his disability did not stop his dream of becoming an architect.
His career began in the 1980s and for nearly a decade, he worked for celebrated architect I.M. Pei in New York. Today, Mr Ngu, 62, is the president and chief executive of Architects 61, an award-winning local company.
Yesterday, he was one of 13 people with disabilities recognised for their achievements, as well as for their potential and contributions to society, at the inaugural Goh Chok Tong (GCT) Enable Awards.
Mr Ngu has also found time to give back to the community, having served as vice-chairman of the Singapore Cheshire Home, and treasurer of the Para Cycling Federation of Singapore.
The awards ceremony was graced by President Halimah Yacob and attended by Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.
Madam Halimah said: “Their stories remind us that everyone is unique and differently abled, and can contribute back to society in their own ways. I hope today’s awards will inspire everyone to go the distance with our endeavours.”
There are two categories of the GCT Enable Awards. The Achievement Award recognises contributions to the recipient’s field and to society. The Promise Award encourages those with great potential to keep at it and develop their talents to a higher level.
ESM Goh said: “The Achievement and Promise awards are to celebrate the accomplishments of persons with disabilities for who they are and what they can contribute to Singapore if we maximise their potential.”
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Source: The Straits Times, 4 July 2019