“I have always had a passion for sports and recreation. I have carried this passion in my academic major and life. As a PE student, every day, I was required to practice different types of sports to pass the corresponding tests. I was in a position between “ordinary people” and professional athletes. My sports skills did not need to be professional like athletes, while I had to be as hardworking as them. I loved it. It taught me to be brave and hardworking in sports and, most importantly, in life. I used to be shy when talking in public but being shy is impossible in sports. I needed to demonstrate my sports skills and be able to speak in public all the time, so I can overcome my weakness and highlight my strength. I was also asked to observe peers and students to identify areas to improve their sports skills. I am grateful to have these practicing experiences as I am able to integrate these qualities into my life. People have always commented on me as hardworking and energetic. My sports practices also encourage me to spot key problems when solving issues. I believe sports could help everyone become better.
This belief has always inspired me to enable Asian communities to connect with each other and society through physical activities. I volunteered to organize and deliver physical activities and cultural activities for Asian communities (e.g., martial arts, basketball, table tennis, boxing, hiking, and walking around bushes).
As a migrant in Aotearoa, I have witnessed misunderstandings within Asian communities, between the old and young, and between different ethnicities. I promote diversity and inclusion through the lens of physical activities, rather than aiming to increase people’s sports skills. To enable active opportunities for Asian communities and other ethnic groups, I believe in the importance of activities led by Asian people for the Asian community.
I am still enthusiastically trying to increase people’s participation in sports and recreation.”