http://sme-keith.posterous.com Most recent posts at posterous.com Sat, 18 Sep 2010 10:20:00 -0700 Living Your Life! http://sme-keith.posterous.com/living-your-life http://sme-keith.posterous.com/living-your-life

Hey Dudes and Dudettes of the world!

Its been so long since I wrote, just to share with you guys! YOG ended nearly a month ago, but the memories are still stuck in my brain! So, I wanna share with you guys,that you all are awesome! That you guys have the potential to be world beaters, and change makers. YOG just proved it! Meeting athletes of tomorrow, I shaked hands with future world champions, got their emails, and I am truly excited for my generation!

And, all these experience will only be a memory to me, unless I live it out. Experiences equip you for something greater. Excellence, Friendship and Respect will only be just four words if you dont practice it. If you do, you are well on your way to be someone great!

YOU! the one looking at this post now, may feel useless, downtrodden this is called mood swings. They can last for a few days to a lifetime. You will have it until you have a positive mindset change.

If you dont feel useless, YOU can make a change. You can be the next Steve Jobs, Kobe Bryant, Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, Gandhi and the list goes on.

YOU ARE EMPOWERED TO CHANGE THE WORLD. and I am on my way to reaching my goal!

Are you?

Share with me your stories by sending an email to sme.keith@gmail.com or pro_keith@hotmail.com !

HAVE FUN!

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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 11:22:26 -0700 Before The Curtain Call http://sme-keith.posterous.com/before-the-curtain-call-0 http://sme-keith.posterous.com/before-the-curtain-call-0
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It was the day before YOG ends. It is all about to be over. Athletes are going to return home, life is going to resume to normal. No more SME life. No more Koreans and Chinese SMEs joking with me. The future do looks kinda bleak eh?

WRONG. It is up to my decision to make a difference in how life turns out for me. Watching the table tennis matches. it made me feel proud to be a SME, and more importantly a Singaporean. Honestly, the crowd was enthusiastic as usual, and the athletes put up a great display. It was not the event I was looking for, but really to experience THIS DAY. The day before everything ends. The atmosphere was different, everyone had a wish that YOG would never end.

Being A Singaporean, I saw our government building everything from scratch, to achieve the current success of YOG. To see it coming to an end, was a proud moment for me, that YOG has been smooth, that things went well.

As YOG is ending, another thing comes to an end for me.SME life.

Yeap, no more chinese and korean friends joking and fooling around with me. As the farewell dinner started today, we had videos, photos, and like dinner. It was most probably last time we gathered together as a team in my life. I was really kinda sad, and a bit overwhelmed. However, these people taught me lessons I will never forget, and on the bright side, they taught me values, how to get the most out of my life, I really learnt alot.

Maybe I will not have another chance to be a SME, but this experience was great enough for me. I hope I get another chance to bring you guys my perspective and my input.

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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 11:22:23 -0700 Before The Curtain Call http://sme-keith.posterous.com/before-the-curtain-call http://sme-keith.posterous.com/before-the-curtain-call
Img_3746

It was the day before YOG ends. It is all about to be over. Athletes are going to return home, life is going to resume to normal. No more SME life. No more Koreans and Chinese SMEs joking with me. The future do looks kinda bleak eh?

WRONG. It is up to my decision to make a difference in how life turns out for me. Watching the table tennis matches. it made me feel proud to be a SME, and more importantly a Singaporean. Honestly, the crowd was enthusiastic as usual, and the athletes put up a great display. It was not the event I was looking for, but really to experience THIS DAY. The day before everything ends. The atmosphere was different, everyone had a wish that YOG would never end.

Being A Singaporean, I saw our government building everything from scratch, to achieve the current success of YOG. To see it coming to an end, was a proud moment for me, that YOG has been smooth, that things went well.

As YOG is ending, another thing comes to an end for me.SME life.

Yeap, no more chinese and korean friends joking and fooling around with me. As the farewell dinner started today, we had videos, photos, and like dinner. It was most probably last time we gathered together as a team in my life. I was really kinda sad, and a bit overwhelmed. However, these people taught me lessons I will never forget, and on the bright side, they taught me values, how to get the most out of my life, I really learnt alot.

Maybe I will not have another chance to be a SME, but this experience was great enough for me. I hope I get another chance to bring you guys my perspective and my input.

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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3 Tue, 24 Aug 2010 23:37:00 -0700 Eating Knowledge http://sme-keith.posterous.com/eating-knowledge http://sme-keith.posterous.com/eating-knowledge

HEY GUYYYS!

I am here to share with you guys my lunch experience, eating at Pastamania.Before you dismiss this, what I am gonna discuss something that can affect you, as in really affect your whole lifestyle. We were just discussing about what we gonna do when we grow up. Some of us diplomats, reporters, lawyers, and one of us even to set up a foundation to help third world kids. We wanted to achieve this big dreams.

HOW?

Answer is to just believe and achieve it. Dont let anything or anyone stop you from achieving . Whenever you hear about someone creating history and you admit that it will never happen to you. Well, YOU ARE WRONG. It is because you choose to not take hold of your chances, and go all out. When you attempt you have a stumbling block, you give up. No wonder, you dont make history.

Therefore, I urge you guys to go forward, do your best and when you fail, you can take pride in the fact that you did your best, if you dont you just made history!

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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3 Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:31:31 -0700 I saw Aliens from Outer Space http://sme-keith.posterous.com/i-saw-aliens-from-outer-space http://sme-keith.posterous.com/i-saw-aliens-from-outer-space
Sam_1434

Okay, if you thought that I really saw Aliens from outer space, I was just joking okay. Please do not press the red button when you see this

I saw athletes from overseas not other planets, and the experience at YOV is simply awesome and amazing. but it was more than that. Yeah there was cultural exchange programmes. Booths from different nation set up by our students had interesting activities like traditional games. For me, it was really a mind blowing experience for me today. THE BEST PART IS HERE. ATHLETES ACTUALLY THINK I AM 18. and there was this Cooks Island Girl that was like a head taller than me. OMG.

Now, seeing all this was through a perspective of a participant, but being a SME was to look things through different perspectives. Therefore, I interviewed Mr Desmond, one of the planning committee members.He told me, that it was the experience that was invaluable for him,he enjoyed the experience to plan from nothing and to achieve all these! When confronted with this question on the challenges he faced, it lied in the word "inaugural"., they had nothing to learn from and to follow, it was a whole new concept. It was different from the Olympic Games, this was focused on bringing out the best from the teenagers. And he said to see its success, was his greatest pleasure.

And from what he said, it is totally true, the IOC have reached the purpose, to bring out the best of the athletes not only in sports but character wise, athletes of different culture and nations come together,.  to be united in sports. It was obvious they learnt alot from each other, to respect each others differences.

AND HOW TO SKIP THE PIN TRADING CENTER MAN. Traded like so many badges, at least 30 now. Next, I went to the talk by champions. This was by Alexander Popov and Sergey Bubka, those two people were highly respected in their area of competition. Alexander was a four time olympian with nine medals, whereas Sergey Bubka set the world record and re wrote it THIRTY FIVE TIMES.

They gave a very inspiring talk, teaching the athletes the true Olympic Values. Both of them highlighted the fact that NEVER to be motivated last minute, but to motivate yourself to reach the goal. Another important point they mentioned was not to be pressurised but to be responsible. It was really a mindset shift, that we must be accountable to ourselves then we can be accountable to others.

Have you ever ever felt nervous before an exam, a performance, competition? Well, take the Alexander and Sergey solution , to believe and focus to think that you can do it. Trust yourself to do it.

Therefore, I wish all you guys heed their advice, when you see that obstacle in front of you, trust that you can clear it and emerge victorious.

You dont need to be an athelete, to live an OLYMPIC LIFESTYLE.

You can email me @ sme.keith@gmail.com for your olympic stories, i am always interested to know!

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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3 Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:48:26 -0700 Share your thoughts http://sme-keith.posterous.com/share-your-thoughts http://sme-keith.posterous.com/share-your-thoughts
HEY GUYS AND GIRLS.
YOG IS ENDING REALLY REALLY REALLY SOON, and if you guys got anything just anything to share about YOG your thoughts your feelings, your reflections about YOG.
Just email it to me:
If your YOG post is the best post, that it reflects on our country's situation, yet presented in a bold way, it can be one of the top few posts, and you could stand a chance to win these limited YOG Samsung Pins.
I wish you all the best.
Please note, that you can write your name as well, on top of your email! Keep checking my blog for updates. SPREAD THE LOVE K?
With lots of love,
Keith

Sam_1191 Sam_1193
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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3 Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:25:09 -0700 Kiss Me http://sme-keith.posterous.com/kiss-me http://sme-keith.posterous.com/kiss-me

The day did not start as well as I planned it out to be, sleeping around five yesterday, trying to finish up my school work, I arrived late today at the Head Office late. It was certainly not any better with my flu, but being a SME requires me to be resilient, to act despite of tough circumstances.

Leading my team, we decided to start on the first goal: To reach Sentosa via Bus and the Monorail. Though that was our objective, there was a more daunting task ahead of me. The SMES were tired and showed signs of lethargy over the the past few days. The question to ask now was how do I gather this team together( Jake, Nuri, Yooji, Grace, Mary, Brenda and I) and make them click. To make it worse, there was a language barrier between the korean and chinese was hindering us, and it was an awkward situation where everyone kept quiet. As the team leader, I decided to take initiative by making them talk by cracking jokes, and sharing my story with them.

Even on our way there, we were talking, laughing and cheering, Kis SME, this team name sounded weird and laughable, but as long as we had fun, it was worth it.

Upon reaching the ticketing office, Jake, affectionately called Bumblebee had no cash, before I even reached for my pocket to lend his some, my team members already took the initiative to lend him the money. However, one of them Yooji suggested that we used the money given to us for our expenditure to be divided, and we agreed. I commend her for thinking out of the box, to think of a win-win situation. She really examplified the value of excellence. That excellence was not to be a goal, but our pre-requisite.

Upon reaching the Imbiah Station, I knew I need assume responsibility, given that today was such a hot day, I needed to make sure everyone drank lots of water, and keep hydrated. It was scary, as it was different from leading my schoolmates or friends, I had to be accountable to their "babysitter" or person in charge and parents, they were also from overseas. So i had to really make sure that safety is priority. Bringing them to the Images of Singapore, with a few disruptions to take pictures.

Halfway through already, dont blame for being wordy, I tried listening to you guys, but I must express my thoughts!

We purchased the tickets from a sweet Indian lady, whom brought service with a smile. She was obviously not just interested in exchanging tickets for cash, she was interested in a fufilling job. We made friends with her, she asked us a few questions and asked about our programme. we just striked a converstation just like that. This was really great but it also disturbed me. It is so easy for us to make friends, and when it comes to our family, the people who mean to us, we treat them as enemies, not as friends. Kinship is not simply blood ties, but Friendship tied down with blood bonds. And, we certainly became closer after the whole day.

After a quick introduction, with good video effects we immediately began on our Singapore Adventure Journey, For the Koreans, and Chinese it was learning and understanding a country's history and culture, for me, it was revisiting my country's own story. Brenda and I were like their tour guides, bringing them around, introducing to them our country. They listened intently, respecting our culture, singing praises for our country and shared with us about Singapore's cleanliness, and how Singaporeans really like being clean. This point was highlighted by Grace, a chinese SME, and she said that she would use her practical action to influence her peers and spread the need to protect the environment.

With her this thought, I brought them to the Nature Discovery Trail, to learn more about nature, and to appreciate Mother Earth. also to give them a few tips on conservation. on how to protect our environment. It was my duty to drill in the concept that nature is a beautiful thing to behold, and we are only renting this earth from our future generation. To exterminate the concept, that what I do is small and little, it doesnt matter.

IT DOES. We must respect this Earth, this home to us, the place that housed human beings, from civilization to civilization. It is time for us to respect it and stop acting like little brats.

With stomachs growling, lips dried up, we headed to Subway for a quick lunch. When you have lunch, you always always hate it where there is awkward silences between you and your friendsm once again I became a joke. at least everyone had fun. Sigh,

Feasting on overpriced food in a cramped room, we enjoyed ourselves and moved on to our next station, UNIVERSAL STUDIOS people!

Getting our tickets, and vouchers, we were all packed up! Ready to roll. Going to the Revenge of the Pharoah, that mummy needs help man. He sounds like he didnt have a mommy didnt give him enough love. I learnt this theory, in his ride, flying down with the ride, a guy like me WILL get a center parting.

The rest of the time was there was really like the usual theme park stuff, going for rides to get wet, watching 4-D movies with awesome effects, taking pictures with mascots, and for Marilyn Monroe, I didnt get a chance, cause so many people were going for it!

Madagascar, Sci Fi City, Jurassic Park was all good workplaces, what I meant by that is, we were given another task for happy and excited faces, IT WAS EASY AS finding a seed in a watermelon. From workers to little kids, a wide smile was plastered all over their faces. So, happiness is quite easy to find, all you need to do is relax.

Another worthy mention, is the Lights, Camera, Action station where you get to see the movie effects LIVE. With the water really spraying around, with things crashing around, with the ground shaking literally. Well, from the dude who brought you Bourne Identity, and movies of five star ratings, Steven Spielberg. He is an internationally acclaimed director, and has been respected by many due to his excellence and his requirement for perfection to do his best, excellence was his motivation to success. Therefore, when we viewed the special effects scene we really felt the impact and power.

Okay, that somehow summed up today. And as Hannah Kim, my wonderful Korean friend departs, I pray she arrives safely and that she will still remember us. Moving back on track, the four things we picked away from today,  the Olympic Values, Excellence Friendship and Respect. Also, UNIVERSAL STUDIO MERCHANDISE.

40026_101753263218916_10000152 40190_101757929885116_10000152 40265_101769103217332_10000152 40474_101785089882400_10000152 40559_101766593217583_10000152 45214_101751049885804_10000152 45245_101768789884030_10000152 Kiss
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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3 Sun, 22 Aug 2010 02:03:09 -0700 Roaring with Pride http://sme-keith.posterous.com/roaring-with-pride http://sme-keith.posterous.com/roaring-with-pride

Feeling nauseous, on the taxi as it drove through the heavy traffic, with lots of swerving, we finally arrived at the indoor stadium, LATE. Rushing to the media centre, we brushed past some athletes which I wish I had time to interview, rushing to the games, there were many matches in action, but still there wasn’t much cheering though, which got me scratching my head. Settling in, the crowd began screaming and running wild, it was then it dawned on me, it was a Singaporean player, Isabelle Li who came out, against her Japanese counterpart, Tanioka. I wont say that the whole stadium was full and packed. But, given the fact it was just the preliminary round, it was a great turnout.

The game began with Singapore trailing 2-0, just as many began to lose hope, Singapore showed signs of resilience by winning the third set, as people thought that it was just a lucky break, and expected Japan to clinch the fourth set, but boy oh boy, how wrong were they, she showed signs of resilience, and fought back, it ended!

Sam_1294 Sam_1297 Sam_1295 Sam_1306 41185_1483735647757_1064824941
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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3 Sun, 22 Aug 2010 00:08:45 -0700 A sea of Umbrellas http://sme-keith.posterous.com/a-sea-of-umbrellas http://sme-keith.posterous.com/a-sea-of-umbrellas

The day began with me bringing the fellow SMES from Korea and China, to visit my school, Temasek Secondary School. Donning on their bright yellow Mobile Explorer Shirt, they drew immediate attraction when they stepped in, bringing them around my school, checking out the library and gym was just a few things they did! They busily took photos of the surroundings, and the SME from Korea were comparing the schools, as the Chinese were complimenting us for efficient method of schooling! Bringing them to my class, the most enthusiastic people that they could ever meet, a warm smile and a hand extended out they played as gracious host!

They even had a chance to interview and interact with my classmates, they really enjoyed themselves, as they made new friends such as my classmates.

Unfortunately, the class which we were suppose to sit in, the teacher was absent thus we had a change in plans. We headed out to the canteen, and they ate our egg prata, and tried out many delicacies. Before they left, the Chinese SMEs decided to be innovative, and start on writing a card for YOG, and within minutes, they got their board filled. KUDOS to them, and soon before long, we were done.

A few hours later, we were back at the City Celebration, and it was Nicholas Zhang performing. It was raining heavily, and we expected the crowd to disappear, but there were still supporters holding umbrellas, bobbing their head, and screaming Nicholas Zhang’s lyrics out, it was really a wonderful display of talent there. Though, the previous acts did not draw multitudes, but it was really entertaining, and I really began to understand the concept of local music.

On my way back, I was really excited for the next day, where I will get to go to the Indoor Stadium to watch table tennis!

Sam_1212 Sam_1213 Sam_1214 Sam_1215 Sam_1209 Sam_1211 Sam_1264 Sam_1262
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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3 Sat, 21 Aug 2010 23:35:33 -0700 Soaring in the Park http://sme-keith.posterous.com/soaring-in-the-park http://sme-keith.posterous.com/soaring-in-the-park

HEY GUYS! I was just reading my blogposts, and one of you commented, and I accept your criticsm, and i will do my best to improve! Thanks for even reading it!

Also, I realised I need more paragraphing and write less.

So today, I shall write shortly!

Waking up on Tuesday morning, skipping school, going to the lobby.Grouped with my fellow Team C members, ready to roll out!My group mates: Clara, Sayhieon, Yoonil, Gao Can and Xia Song. It was awesome! We began with going to a nearby community center, for a lion dance training. After watching a few videos of the lion dancing, we swinged into action, we learnt different instruments and a few minutes later,we began our performance. It entertained us but definitely not some of the kids!

Overall, it was fun and we got all sweaty and ready!

Heading to the Jurong Bird Park, after grabbing a delicious lunch, we were off to explore the place! Going to see the penguin(no link with birds), was exciting, and it was really cold, the girls were like so fascinated with penguins, and began speaking gibberish, and then we went to see the many different species of birds, approaching the owl sector, everyone agreed the owls were creepy.

As time approached nearer to 3:15,the showtime, we went to catch the bird show, it was really astonishing to see parrots just sing at the beck and call of the keepers, they were multi talented, and could even play basketball! It was really enjoyable!

The saying goes, "Time flies, when you are having fun" how true is that? Soon, we knew it was the end of the day and we have reached back to the hotel!

And here I am typing this article!

Sam_1004 Sam_1005 Sam_1008 Sam_1009 Sam_1037 Sam_1038 Sam_1118 Sam_1164
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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3 Wed, 18 Aug 2010 06:47:16 -0700 Clicking in Beats Of Five For YOG http://sme-keith.posterous.com/clicking-in-beats-of-five-for-yog http://sme-keith.posterous.com/clicking-in-beats-of-five-for-yog
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Keith Yap <sme.keith@gmail.com>
Date: Tue, Aug 17, 2010 at 11:27 PM
Subject: Clicking in Beats Of Five For YOG
To: post@posterous.com


Suffering the effects of the YOG opening ceremony, I woke up on this Early Sunday Morning. With a quick breakfast, and as we packed up, and rushed out of the hotel, it was another adventerous day for us! Reaching the Singapore Indoor Stadium, we were in time to watch the matches. Many may have lamented that Singaporeans just do not care enough for YOG, it was totally eradicated. There were MULTITUDES OF SUPPORTERS, IT WAS JUST THE PRELIMINARY ROUNDS? Thus, it is safe to conclude that Singaporeans do care!
As I sat down at the first few audience seats with DX, contemplating what to write for our story content, observing the shuttlers every move. I aint a fan of badminton, but it really was a feast for my mind! There was an atmosphere of suspense, as we saw Singaporeans,cheering wildly and keeping silent the next moment.
All this contributed to the whole process of us enjoying the matches. All this was fun but the real thing came,when our Singapore shuttler came in and took center stage. Our crowd roared with applause and approval every point he scored, even when he committed an error, they stood behind him and rendered their support. Without doubt, it really made me proud to stand tall as a Singaporean! Not only is our opponent India, a big nation thriving with talents. But, to many others, we were just a small red dot, but now, we are THE RED DOT. Who says small nations cant dream BIG? It was because of our government's courage to bid for the YOG hosting rights with the powerhouses like Russia and Canada, we have achieved this rights to host such a major event!
With our homecourt advantage and Huangs great skills, we won India, and qualified for the next round!
GOOD JOB TEAM SINGAPORE!
Later that day, it was CITY CELEBRATIONS 2! CLICK FIVE CAME AND WE GOT AUTOGRAPHED POSTERS AND TEES! I also got their kinda used up towel. Standing in the midst of hundreds of people crowding at the front smelling their armpits wasnt cool!
Meeting them in person was really cool and really enhanced my Sunday! I hope you had a great monday!
 
MONDAY:
CRAP MAN, I WOKE UP LATE.
Next, it was'nt really a very YOG-ish day today, but as I travelled on the bus to the hotel, I reflected that YOG's primary aim was not to instill competition, but to forge friendships, to aim to achieve better. To be stronger, higher, and faster. It was to be better than yourself, to break records you never thought you could.achieve. So I urge you guys, to aim high, and you can score high.

Sam_0849 Sam_0850 Sam_0870 Sam_0871 Sam_0872 Sam_0873 Sam_0940
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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3 Wed, 18 Aug 2010 06:20:08 -0700 A New Page In History, A Time To Celebrate http://sme-keith.posterous.com/a-new-page-in-history-a-time-to-celebrate http://sme-keith.posterous.com/a-new-page-in-history-a-time-to-celebrate
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Keith Yap <sme.keith@gmail.com>
Date: Tue, Aug 17, 2010 at 10:02 PM
Subject: A New Page In History, A Time To Celebrate
To: post@posterous.com


The black ominous cloud, began to cover the night sky, drawing murmurs from everywhere!
I was like praying and praying, CERTAINLY, IT DIDNT. After a stringent security check, we quickly collected our gift packs, and settled in our seats. We were then treated to a feast for the eyes! There was dancing, fireworks, drama and singing. It was really an experience like no other, When I was in the midst of the sea of people, mostly clad in red and white, the moment when our national anthem resounded in the stadium, it was really so touching, that such a handsome and cool guy like me can also tear.
All the performances have been inspiring, Combining the past, with the future, it was just like NBA's theme: Amazing Happens. It certainly did tonight!
When the time inched closer to the end, the final leg of the torch relay was about to begin, everyone began to cheer, no matter what race or religion, or even nationality, we were all united by this common bond, the inaugural Youth Olympic Games.
Hmmm,,, there were so many great shows, but each had its own unique flavour and I thought the show went well!
One significant event that happened for me, was the introduction of the atheletes. It made me see the fact that everyone in the world truly deserves an equal chance for the Olympic Games. There were so many countries that we did not hear about, sent their squad. It shows the fact that every nation truly should be an Olympic Nation.
After a few interviews, from youths near us, they expressed their pride and their intense love for Singapore. To be part of the YOG, has been inspiring for them.
As a Samsung Mobile Explorer, I am really grateful for all the chances that Samsung has given me, and all the people they have put me together with, it made me see that Samsung truly lives up to the their claim, of sponsoring young dreams. They really helped me alot throughout this few days.
Just to share with you guys,if you are reading, YOU ARE AWESOME, YOU ARE INSPIRING. You may not be an athelete but you can still be a champion!

Sam_0475 Sam_0400 Sam_0399 Sam_0401 Sam_0398 Sam_0478 Sam_0479 Sam_0480
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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3 Wed, 18 Aug 2010 05:56:00 -0700 Parade Of The Lunatics http://sme-keith.posterous.com/parade-of-the-lunatics http://sme-keith.posterous.com/parade-of-the-lunatics
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: sme.keith <sme.keith@gmail.com>
Date: Tue, Aug 17, 2010 at 1:53 AM
Subject: Parade Of The Lunatics
To: post@posterous.com


Before I start on my report for the first city celebration in The Promontory at Marina Boulevard. I just want to tell you two things,that are most likely unrelated to YOG. First of all, I took a picture with this contortionist, at my age who thinks putting his leg over his neck as easy as breathing. This talented youth, was one of the lead characters in the show, Voyage De La Vie. Next, is that as I do this report, at such an unholy time like 2am with my fellow SMES(Nicolette, Kirk, DX and Naomi) in the Holiday Inn Atrium, feasting on Korean Instant Noodles and bannanas. Forgive me for any grammatical or spelling errors, as we are trying to keep ourselves awake, with large doses of coffee.

Now, let me just begin with meeting the other SMES(China and Korea). Rushing from a hectic day at school, running around CBD, Jennifer and I scrambled to the Samsung Hub. When we reached the place, it has already started! What a great way to start this joumey!*sarcastic tone*

Sneaking in, with our Samsung Mobile Explorer Shirts donned on, we were just in time for the presentation! As the China representative, Lucy began her speech, it was not a display of her eloquence only but the team dynamics they had. They showed creativity by incorparating traditional chinese culture with the modern Samsung feel.

Our Korean counterparts sent their most eloquent speaker, Hannah. She presented her concept of Korean being the dream team, she was challenging our idea of Samsung Mobile Explorer, bringing a new dimension to SME, Student-Like Motivated and Enthusiastic. For me, it was like a revelation, it was a benchmark for me, a standard to achieve. To be a learner, to be self motivated and to be passionate. it was not child’s play for them, they were here to bring their invaluable experience back to the Koreans that do not have a chance to taste the inaugural YOG.

Seeing our fellow SMES, show their prowess, as the host country we wanted to make sure that we were not undermined. With our friendly Mr. DJ, DX made a detailed speech that showed no flaws. His speech was impeccable; it combined our thoughts, and merged it to fit with Samsung’s theme. It was really passion meeting the future. When he ended his speech, I heaved a sigh of relief, I knew that we did well and didnt lose our face. SO THANK YOU DX! Please check out his blog too! FULL OF INSIGHTS! DOPE

Followed by the presentation, it was time to MINGLE! My initial impression of them was that they were very professional and cold. BUT boy, was I wrong! They were full of smiles, and were so friendy and amiable. Fortunately, I was eloquent in Chinese as well , and my friends from Korea, could speak English well! I really made new friends. In my few conversations, I really feel honored to be a SME. In Korea, they had to go through many rounds of selection, 600 of them applied for it, and only 12 got through! In China, competition was fiercer, 500 000 people applied for this prestigious positions and it was then trimmed to 30, where all 30 of them had to head to Beijing,the squad then was chosen, a total of 12 people were selected! It really made me try to do my best and fufill my potential as an SME. To do Samsung proud, to do my nation proud! So MY POST IS GONNA BE UNIQUE AND EXCITING!

After a quick phototaking session, we were back to the conference room! We were given photo taking tips, and we learnt that camera takes the photos, your heart makes it. With all the technicalities done and over with, we headed back to the hotel to put down our HOMEWORK! On our way, we saw the Hungarian Elect President ready to run for the torch, being an ex Olympian, he was happy to be part of the Torch Relay.

As we rushed from the hotel to the venue, with Daniel our dear babysitter bringing us, he ensured that the road was safe to control and then when we reached there, he just left us at the venue. Thanks to Kirk and DX, we found our seats. As a good Samsung Ambassador, we began to put on those tattoos, on our faces, wrists and even necks! Our work has started now!

Missing the first performer, Michaela Theresa was not a good sign, especially it was Friday 13th. However VOX, a group of people who played violin renditions of rock and pop music, were simply amazing! They played the famous song by Wonder Girls, Nobody. Followed, by that was an out of the world experience with the Urban Drum Crew, merging colours and their rhythm, it was really fun! Next up was Electrico, Singapore’s famous band, their songs brought about an electrifying vibe in the atmosphere. We could literally sense the build up, for B2ST and 4MINUTE. When it was their showtime, the crowd just went berserk, everyone was so excited, some rushed to the front, flashes began to appear, BOY! IT WAS CRAZYYY!

After an hour or so, with all that singing and dancing, it was the end of the City Celebrations Part 1! Just ONE more DAY TO THE YOG! CANT WAIT FOR IT!

 

 

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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3 Sun, 08 Aug 2010 21:11:00 -0700 Running With Fire http://sme-keith.posterous.com/running-with-fire http://sme-keith.posterous.com/running-with-fire

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SINGAPORE! I LOVE YOU SINCERELY WITH ALL MY HEART. I WILL SING A SONG FOR SINGAPORE!!

Okay now about my YOG experience yesterday. As I stepped into St.Patrick's School, the carnival atmosphere was overwhelming, there were flocks of people just swarming in it, playing the various games, and trying out the different rides, one could not help but be tempted to join in the fun. But I knew, I was called for a greater purpose. Ushered by a friendly student up to the hall, I saw many people with the same attire as me, the well decorated YOG sports attire. After a quick registration, I went into the crowd and began to mingle with the rest. I made a few friends, some grassroots leaders, others primary school kids, while others were just students around my age. Whatever the diffference might be, through the small talks we had, they displayed the Olympic values, friendship, excellence and respect. After a while. as more people streamed in, I found a few familiar faces that were in this relay together with me, excited by this, we began taking pictures with each other. Soon after, a volunteer even asked us if we wanted to take a picture with the torch, we immediately agreed!

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As 3.30 striked, it was time to gather for briefing after attendance taking and some safety tips by the volunteers, we were then brought to the YOG bus. When I knew that Patwant Singh, Senior Sports Reporter of Channel Newsasia was passing me the torch, I was excited. From that workshop which he taught us the tricks of the trade for sports reporting, he seemed fun loving and wise. Therefore I grabbed this chance and talked to him. He shared with me his experience as a newsreporter, and we had lots of fun together!

Before we boarded the bus, the youth volunteer told us that the bus we were about to board was one of the seven bus that has Lyo and Merly holding the Olympic torch, whereas other buses only had Lyo and Merly on it, so i immediately took a snapshot for you all to see!

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We were then ferried to Bedok Stadium, where the torch relay was to be started there. As we touched down, we saw multitudes crowding around us, members of the public gathered, and they cheered as loud as they could. The Samsung and Coca Cola buses, were there and the vuvuzelas sounded once again(No offense what's with the secret obsession with vuvuzelas)

It made me feel like a star, there were policemen patrolling the area, and photographers began snapping away! I knew now, the moment of glory does not start when we get the torch, it is when you don on the attire! I did many insane things, which Patwant Singh defined as hit and run! I took a photo in the bus driver's seat when he went out for a break, and I took photos with policemen. It was really insane!

Just before we left for our route, we quickly grabbed a few pictures, and here are these photos! Please check out my picture with Patwant Singh.YES, I sat with him and he is awesome!

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As we travelled on the road, and when we peered out of the window, we saw the crowds holding cameras and frantically waving their hands at us. They were full of enthusiasm, some of them came all the way down just to see the bus drive by. People can lament that Singaporeans just dont get the meaning of YOG, we dont care about YOG. But from this experience, I saw the side that Singaporeans were passionate about YOG, they were excited and geared up. they were ready for the inaugural Youth Olympics. There was two boys that cycled all the way from Bedok to Simei, they were perspiring and we were not even sure that they would know their way home!

On the journey, I have learnt one important lesson, never underestimate the power of toilet breaks. When we were given time to go to the toilet, i went there to style my hair. But, on the way to Simei, with everyone gulping down bottles of water. I was the only one trying to control the waves.Other than this, it was pretty enjoyable for me!

FINALLY, IT WAS MY TURN FOR THE AWESOME ONE MINUTE WITH EVERYONE CHEERING ME! When my foot touched the ground, people of Simei were shouting, straining their voice for me. And they did not even know me. As the Samsung bus, whizzed pass me the loudspeaker projected this few words :" OUR SAMSUNG RUNNER KEITH YAP" Suddenly all the people on the bus, including the pretty girls screamed GO KEITH GO KEITH. That moment was heavenly, never in my life would I dream of that! SO MANY PEOPLE JUST CHEERING ME ON! It was the GALAXY S experience. Let me share with you what I mean. Millions of Singaporeans want to get their hands on this phone, but only a few people like me get to experience it and enjoy it!

When the whole crew begin to merge into my line of sight, my heart was palpitating, and my palms began to sweat! When he came and we did our cool handshake, I got the torch, with the media truck in front of me, I was holding the torch with my hand shaking, and like began smiling to the camera. The support runners were telling me:"Dude,higher,higher" and "Smile to the camera" I was like "YES SIR" but I am already doing my best.

It dawned on me that they only seek for perfection, and they demand for the best. Now, I realised that we must pursue the best we can in everything we do. When I got on the bus, it was CRAZY ALTOGETHER AGAIN. Everyone were exclaiming about how awesome their experience was. And still holding on to the high tide, i wished that we reached Simei ITE as soon as possible. The moment we got there, they asked for a group photo, and ten of us gave our cameras. I was like, Gosh, I am gonna get bladder problems.

Forcing a smile, I held my certificate high and after several minutes, we were done! SPRINTING TO THE TOILET, I LET IT ALL OUT! After answering the call of nature, I got a bottle of Coke, and decided to head for the event, but alas, it was over. Nevertheless, I enjoyed myself and i got something money cannot buy! The YOG torchbearer pin,it was priceless! BIG AND WELL DECORATED!

Just a shoutout to my friend SHERWEINE HOW. Thank you for coming, you supported me and even though you missed out on me running the torch relay and we missed the event. I thank you for even making an effort. YOU ROCK! This post shows to you all what is friendship about.

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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3 Sat, 07 Aug 2010 08:32:00 -0700 Experience Of Pespiration http://sme-keith.posterous.com/experience-of-pespiration http://sme-keith.posterous.com/experience-of-pespiration

 Those who think that being a SME(Samsung Mobile Explorer) is all fun and play, sitting in an air conditioned room and enjoying yourself . YOU ARE SO WRONG! It was a sweltering afternoon at Nanyang Polytechnic, where thousands of Nanyang students and members of the public to witness the end of the first day of torch relay. Squeezing through the crowd, was our first mission there, a swarm of people wearing blue Samsung tees greeted us with their friendly smiles as they guided us up. Just look at the crowd! Kudos to them.

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Sandwiched in the huge crowd on the third floor, it was definitely not pleasant to the nose especially! On top of the hot weather and the fact that there was so many people there, we were thirsty and warm, BUT Coke came to the rescue! Several volunteers were stationed downstairs and served tirelessly distributing bottles of Coke to the audience! As we headed back to our level, the event started with a bang! The whole institution was basically shaking, by the loud cheers of the audience. The familiar YOG cheer for Singapore by JJ Lin resounded in the area. Volunteers all over, were performing the cheer with zest. Here is just a video for you to savour, sorry for the poor quality! Also in case, you dont like videos, here are some pictures for you to look at!

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 As the event continued, there was a cheerleading team from Taiwan called Monster that performed. They exhibited crazy stunts and moves that require great dexterity and they had to smile at the same time! It was simply put amazing!

 Just to tell you what they are all about, they are the champion cheerleading team in Taiwan for a few years consecutively, the reason they were champions was not just because of their individual talent, but also the team unity and spirit they possessed. They displayed fantastic teamwork. They could anticipate what would happen during the performance; they looked like fish in the water and were so natural. Such a flawless display could only be possible, when teamwork happens. It made me reflect, often, we focus on the “star player” or the most talented individual. We forget about the team, it was only all about the talented one. Without the teamwork, it would be a disaster. It made me realize that we need teamwork to get the job done, and it was no one’s credit to claim because everyone played an equal role to complete the task.

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 After which there was the abseiling item, performed by the three Nanyang Polytechnic students, which got the whole crowd cheering and the mini vuvuzelas blasted the whole place. Everyone cheered them on as they unveiled, three banners unveiling the THREE OLYMPIC VALUES: Friendship, Excellence, Respect.  One of them even abseiled with his head, facing downwards, that was just insane but his daredevil attitude won him more recognition than the other two abseilers. Just in case you did not know, I changed the font already! You realised it only after two paragraphs, back to the point.

 

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After these performances it was time for something more cultural, and less nail-biting. As performers donned in the various Malay costumes, as they took centrestage, loud traditional music played through the speakers, the whole hall was momentarily immersed in the Malay Culture, as we savoured the performance. Watching their elegant moves and the soothing music, as the big LCD screen zoomed in people of different races filled the screen.

 

Immediately after, a local dance crew broke in and began their body language, once again, the crowd roared with approval at their every move.

Then, the live rendition of the YOG theme song, "everyone" was sang. However this time we did not have Tabitha Nauser ,Sean Kingston and the various artistes singing it. It was graced by the NYP singers each of them contributing, their own piece of talent.

 

As I scrutinised the screen and watched these performances, I realised something that I reckon most people failed to recognise, each performance consisted performers of different races. It was unity in diversity, it was certainly a heartwarming scene for me. This was what earned us the right to host the inaugural YOG. The very fact that won respect and praise for this red dot on the map was our racial harmony. It is the key factor that ensured Singapore's survival to this date, for people of different faiths and of different races to put aside their differences and come together as one to transform a third-world country into a first-world country in just a few decades.

 

At this time, the emcee announced that the flame was on its way to the hall, it was an exciting moment for everyone. Ear deafening screams and cheers punctuated the air, it was simply unbearable for me. As a Nanyang Poly student, jogged in surrounded by escorts. On the stage, was PM Lee accompanied by several VIPS they awaited as she arrived. It was a historic moment for Olympic History and a defining moment for Singapore.

 

When PM Lee recieved the torch and lighted up the cauldron, we all went mad, as I quickly gulped down my Coke and continue to cheer. For I know, with that things were just about to get better. As the event ended, sipping on the Coke, walking to the interchange, I reflected about today, the YOG is happening here in Singapore, and are we ready for it? Therefore, I promised myself to be a good ambassador of Singapore, an excellent host to these guests and a model of the Olympic values. This is MY target in YOG, what about YOU?

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]]> http://posterous.com/images/profile/missing-user-75.png http://posterous.com/users/4wKeqX4hBejD donotusethis3 donotusethis3