Hello, my name is Deon.
I'm still learning what it means to be me, but I'll try to tell you everything I've learnt so far.
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Journal
Entry
I often think of myself as a professional side-quester. While I have always been interested in psychology and understanding people better (including myself), I have also held the belief that life isn't just a one-way track to success or happiness.
In the pursuit of happiness and meaning, the arts have played a significant role—music, photography, and even poetry have been instrumental in helping me reflect on and process the world. I also believe very much in the beauty of simple things like coffee or matcha, especially the process of making and refining latte art.
Meanwhile, I also enjoy sports in a non-competitive way, as a form of tangible challenge and personal growth—I started with powerlifting in my teenage years, then obtained an open water diving license, followed by road cycling, and now my latest interest in MMA (particularly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu).
On the rare downtime that I have, I like to work on personal projects that potentially make life a bit easier, from home servers and automations to general “vibe coding” experiments, which also brought me to building this website.
CURRENTLY
Finishing my Bachelor's degree; Looking for a job
In the studio, 2023
"Stay curious,
keep creating."
Fun Facts
- 01.I love vintage hardback books
- 02.Matcha is my creative fuel of choice
- 03.I started learning piano at 24
Education &
Experience
St. Joseph's Institution (Junior)
Primary & Secondary School
To give a bit of backstory, I studied at St. Joseph’s Institution Junior (SJIJ) before continuing on to St. Joseph’s Institution (SJI), where I completed my O-Levels with an L1R5 of 9. Both schools placed a strong emphasis on values, and I’m deeply grateful for how they shaped me—especially in learning to be a “man of integrity” and a “man for others,” in line with their vision and mission.
St. Andrew's Junior College
A-Levels
After my O-Levels, I was admitted to St. Andrew’s Junior College (SAJC), where I studied for a year. During this time, I took part in ChrySAlis, a joint student leadership summit across the primary, secondary, and junior college levels. Through the programme, I was trained in public speaking, engaged in discussions on social issues, and had the opportunity to reach out to members of the public to raise awareness on a chosen topic—mine being mental health. Having already developed an interest in this area since my secondary school years, this experience further deepened my curiosity and made it feel more personal and real. I also attained a Distinction in A-Level Project Work. My group explored the issue of textile wastage, surveying 300 individuals aged 17 to 21. Beyond collecting data, we proposed a solution and compiled our findings into a 3,000-word report. More than the outcome, this experience taught me the value of working effectively in a team—learning to support one another, build on each other’s strengths, and communicate ideas clearly towards a shared goal. Looking back, this period helped to shape a growing interest in understanding people—their thoughts, behaviours, and well-being—which would later influence my next steps.
Ngee Ann Polytechnic
Diploma in Psychology Studies
After a year in JC, I made the decision to leave and pursue a Psychology Diploma at Ngee Ann Polytechnic. It was a step in pursuing the interest I had developed over the last few years. As part of the course, I’ve had the opportunity to work on several projects with non-profit organisations. These included a research collaboration with AWARE, as well as community-based initiatives with organisations such as Ashram Halfway House and Care Corner Student Care Centre. Through these experiences, I’ve learnt how to apply psychological concepts in real-world settings—whether in analysing data, designing outreach programmes, or working directly with different communities. More importantly, they have taught me patience, adaptability, and the importance of communicating ideas in ways that are both clear and meaningful. Looking back, this phase has been one of growth—not just academically, but in understanding how I can contribute in ways that are grounded in empathy and purpose.
Halogen Foundation
Intern - Entrepreneurship Team
I also had the opportunity to intern with Halogen Foundation as part of the Entrepreneurship team. During this time, I facilitated leadership and entrepreneurship programmes for youth, while also helping to track student progress across 12 different schools. Beyond programme delivery, I was involved in developing the programme —liaising with local entrepreneurs to organise guest speaker sessions, and developing a mentoring suite inspired by *Habitudes*, aimed at guiding reflection and discussion. At the time, I also had to analyse the extent of disruption caused by COVID-19 on projected student progress as part of accountability to company partners. Meanwhile, for my final year project in partnership with Halogen, I developed a social media story series addressing social isolation and loneliness. In the process, I became familiar with the operational side of things, such as using Slack for team communication, integrating Google Calendar for scheduling and coordination, and writing clear, effective minutes for the many meetings with different teams. Overall, this helped me better appreciate how programmes are designed and delivered, not just in tailoring for audience engagement, but in creating content that is meaningful, adaptable, and grounded in real-world challenges.
Singapore Armed Forces
BMT > OCS > GUARDS
Then came the time for my National Service. I completed Basic Military Training (BMT) and subsequently went through Officer Cadet School (OCS), before being posted to the Logistics Formation. In my role, I led a motor transport platoon, where I was responsible for managing personnel as well as overseeing operational logistics. This included ensuring day-to-day readiness, coordination of resources, and ensuring prompt support of exercises conducted by the unit. I also had the opportunity to help coordinate overseas joint operations and unit assessments, which further strengthened my organisational skills, communication, and ability to work across teams in high-pressure environments.
Mind what Matters
Receptionist & Operations Associate
My first venture into full-time work led me to work at Mind what Matters (a private psychology practice) where I was involved in both client-facing and behind-the-scenes work. On the front end, I supported the triaging of new clients and managed scheduling in order to ensure smooth day-to-day operations. While supervising front-desk interns, I was also a key point of contact for handling more challenging client situations. It was definitely stressful at times, but it taught me the importance of accountability, empathy, and navigating difficult conversations, particularly in the context of mental health. On the operational side, I worked on refining standard operating procedures (SOPs) to streamline workflows, and coordinated closely with consultants, including their onboarding and offboarding. This partnership extended to social media, where I developed Instagram reels featuring consultants — from planning to recording and editing. Additionally, I was given many other opportunities, such as supporting external trainings and workshops, assisting with WordPress website management and email configuration, and even rebranding efforts through design and copywriting.
Management Development Institute of Singapore
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Psychological and Behavioural Science
In continuing my education, I enrolled in a degree programme with MDIS, University of Roehampton (with 2 years exemption), where my favorite modules included Perspectives in Consciousness, as well as Communication and Social Interaction. As part of my Honors research project, I explored how physical activity moderates the cognitive effects of poor sleep. This was investigated using a modified Emotional Stroop Task alongside multiple regression analysis to examine the relationships between variables.
Other Experience
Part-Time Work: Server, Barista and Research Assistant
As for other roles, I have been active in taking on part-time work since the age of 14, particularly in the F&B industry, before later taking on research-related roles. Working in fast-paced environments and managing multiple responsibilities have taught me a lot about developing strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and the ability to stay composed under pressure—qualities that have continued to shape how I work with and relate to others.
CONTINUOUS LEARNING
I believe learning is a privilege and genuinely enjoy the process, though it seems particularly evident for non-mandatory things.
Community &
Contribution
Beyond professional work, I believe in making meaningful contributions to the world in whatever ways we can, no matter how small. These are the causes and communities that matter to me.
Hair for Hope
Volunteer
I believe in supporting and encouraging individuals with cancer, and in helping to normalise baldness as a symbol of strength rather than stigma. As such, I have volunteered with Hair for Hope twice over the years to show that there are people who see them and stand with them in their journey.
Volunteer
I believe in supporting and encouraging individuals with cancer, and in helping to normalise baldness as a symbol of strength rather than stigma. As such, I have volunteered with Hair for Hope twice over the years to show that there are people who see them and stand with them in their journey.
The
Gallery
A personal selection of past projects. These are a culmination of my ideas, learnings, and interests throughout my journey.
Essays
Designs
Videos
Want to see more? Get in touch— I'd love to share.
The Photo
Board
Photography is one of my favorite ways to capture and process the world around me. These are the moments that caught my eye — small details that tell bigger stories.
.avif)
Japan Trip
2025-06-8
Venice
2024-09-28
Dolomites
2024-09-15
Black & White
2023-06-8
Shot on Fuji X-Pro3, 50mm and 23mm
Commonplace
Book
Here are some of the words I've read that have influenced and inspired me. If you would like to read some mine, feel free to head over to my substack, linked on the next page.
a random quote from my collection
Before you go — I'd love to hear what you think.
End of Journal
Thank you for taking the time to explore my work.
Get In
Touch
If you would like to reach out regarding professional matters, or just want to say hello — I would be happy to hear from you.
No name. No pressure.
Just words.
Have something to say but prefer to stay anonymous? Leave a message — I read everything.