From Setbacks to Success: Lim De Han’s Journey of Resilience and Purpose
“Thank you for believing in me. Your support has been more than financial – it has given me confidence, recognition, opportunities, and the freedom to dream bigger. I hope to pay it forward one day.”
“I am what some people consider a late bloomer," said Lim De Han, a final-year Finance student at SMU. As he prepares to graduate, De Han reflects on a journey marked by grit, gratitude and a fierce resolve to rise above the odds.
His academic path was anything but conventional. After struggling with poor grades in Secondary School, many would have counted him out. But when he was offered a place in polytechnic, something shifted. “I told myself that I had wasted enough time and swore to make something of it.”
He kept that promise. Fuelled by determination and a hunger to prove himself, De Han pushed through and graduated as valedictorian of his polytechnic class.
Coming to SMU opened up a new chapter – one filled with opportunities he once thought were out of reach. Throughout his four years, De Han was empowered by donor-supported scholarships and bursaries, including the Chan Chong Beng Entrepreneurship Scholarship and the Apurva Kothari Study Award.
“When I learned that I had received donor-supported financial aid, I felt incredibly grateful. Knowing that others believed in my potential and were willing to invest in my education was incredibly motivating.”
The financial support made a world of difference. “The aid alleviated financial burdens, allowing me to focus fully on my studies and personal growth. I have been able to engage more in campus life and pursue opportunities I might otherwise have missed.”
One of those opportunities was volunteering at Camp Rainbow, a three-day camp for children with chronic illnesses. For De Han, it was a turning point. “This experience was transformative. It taught me resilience, empathy, and the power of community.”
The scholarship and study award not only helped De Han stay focused on his studies but have also emboldened him to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams. Raised by parents who worked as hawkers, De Han developed a deep appreciation for food and hospitality from an early age. Now, with graduation in sight, he dares to dream of becoming a business owner in the F&B industry. “One of my aspirations is to be a business owner, specifically in the F&B industry.”
The generosity of donors didn’t just lift financial stress – it sparked something within him. With newfound confidence, belief and freedom, De Han now wants to pursue something bigger, and he hopes to one day do the same for others. “Thank you for believing in me. Your support has been more than financial – it has given me confidence, recognition, opportunities, and the freedom to dream bigger. I hope to pay it forward one day.”
One encounter left a lasting impression. As a recipient of the Apurva Kothari Study Award, De Han had the chance to meet his donor. “We had an amazing lunch together, and I was in awe of his energy. I aspire to be like him and give back to the community if I have the chance in the future.”
When asked what advice he would give to others walking a tough road, his answer came easily. “The world is your oyster!” a motto he picked up in polytechnic, it is something he now lives by. He urges others to be bold, to explore and to try. “There’s always support if you seek it out.”
Now, standing on the edge of graduation, De Han’s eyes are set on giving back. “After graduation, I would love to mentor students, contribute to scholarships, or support community projects like Camp Rainbow.”
For Lim De Han, his journey was more than about his own success. A story that is still in the making, he looks forward to empower others the way he’s been empowered.
Lim De Han (BBM Finance 2025), Lee Hong Khim Justin Endowed Bursary, Chan Chong Beng Entrepreneurship Scholarship, and Apurva Kothari Study Award Recipient.
