My journey as a student began in 2017, at the age of fifteen when I came to Canada. I directly attended grade 9. Apart from formal schooling, I also had no proper experience with sports, having only dabbled in soccer before. However, once I reached grade 10, I seized the opportunity to explore all the sports offered by the school. From soccer and basketball to wrestling, cross country, track and field, climbing, five-a-side soccer, goalball, and baseball, I immersed myself in various athletic pursuits.
In 2017, I decided to create a YouTube channel to share my passion for music. It was an exciting journey of music creation and sharing my work with others. Moreover, my love for music led me to join the school band and choir, where I had the incredible experience of performing both as part of a group and as a solo artist, entertaining the entire school with my musical talents.
As time passed, during my late teens at the ages of eighteen and nineteen, I embraced a new challenge and developed a keen interest in boxing. Interestingly, most of my friends also became passionate about boxing, and whenever we gathered, we would exchange skills and teach each other various boxing techniques and tricks. Taking my boxing passion to the next level, I joined a boxing club in 2022. Since then, I have been devoted to training and honing my boxing skills, delving deeper into this thrilling sport. My experiences in sports, music, and boxing demonstrate my resolute commitment to continuous growth and exploration in various domains.
Read below to follow me on my journey of extracurricular growth!
2017
Started my own YouTube channel
I wanted a platform to share my voice and music with the world and that led me to YouTube. It was incredibly rewarding to witness the positive responses and engagement from viewers, as my music resonated with them. As my channel grew, I found myself continually motivated to refine my craft and that led me to a more professional level by visiting a reputable studio to record songs. This experience not only enhanced the quality of my music but also opened doors to new possibilities in the music industry and enabled me to gain valuable insights into the world of music production.
Talking of music production, despite being visually impaired, I adeptly utilized Reaper, a music editing software, to compose original songs and edit my musical creations. By overcoming the challenges presented by my visual impairment, I have developed a sound proficiency in using Reaper, enabling me to achieve my artistic vision.
2018
Participated in the Ontario OFSAA Cross Country Provincial Championships
During my years in Montcalm Secondary School, I participated in the Mens 2000 meters Cross Country Provincial Championship and finished the race in 21 minutes and 49 seconds.
An edited screenshot from the official Ontario OFSAA Cross Country Provincial Championships video
2019
Stepped into the arena of Wrestling
Though I took up wrestling even before 2019, I officially became a member of the wrestling team at Montcalm Secondary School in November, 2019.
In the words my coach, Ben Baxter
Alan is the hardest working student-athlete I have ever met.
In a short time, he has become a talented wrestler, winning multiple medals throughout his first season.
A video of me wrestling another contestant in a wrestling tournament
Drumroll, Please!
In 2019, I took the opportunity to demonstrate my instrumental proficiency as a drummer for the school band. By taking on this role, I showcased my musical talents and contributed to the collective harmony and rhythm of our ensemble.
Adjusting to the physical layout of the drum set and memorizing the arrangement of drums and cymbals were initial hurdles. However, I quickly adapted to using my sense of touch and auditory perception to navigate the instrument's layout.
My journey with the school band has not only enhanced my musical abilities but has also taught me the profound impact of perseverance and teamwork in achieving remarkable performances.
Here's a video of me practicing on drums!
Sitting on the drum throne ready to play some beats!
2020
Online learning extra challenging for student who can't see. Visually-impaired teen embraces online learning.
- CTV News
- CTV News
I was interviewed by CTV News London, Ontario to understand the pedagogical challenges I faced as we transitioned to online learning in the face of the pandemic and how I am navigating through them.
Learn more about the interview by clicking the button below-
Screenshot of the CTV News London web article
2021
Joined the London Phantoms goalball club
For those unfamiliar with goalball, it's a unique and engaging sport created for the blind and visually impaired. I started my journey with goalball in 2017 and, during my time in Montcalm, I had the privilege of joining the London Phantoms goalball club and played for my school. Years passed and I kept getting better at the game. Soon, I was playing at the provincial level at the Ontario Blind Sports Association (OBSA) Provincial Goalball Championships. I have played in numerous tournaments over the years and to this day, I love the sport. Moreover, I took the responsibility to coach and mentor younger students, including some who had never played the game before.
You can learn more about goalball, its clubs in Canada and the Championship by clicking the button below-
Snippet from the OBSA Provincial Goalball Championship. That's me in white, celebrating the sportsmanship of all the athletes.
2022
Knocking out my comfort zone, I embarked on an electrifying journey into the world of boxing
You can watch me work on my punches in this video!
Throughout my journey, I've explored various sports, from wrestling to goal ball, each offering unique experiences and challenges. Now, as I step into a new arena of self-discovery, I find myself venturing into the thrilling world of boxing. Embracing the art of boxing, I am eager to unleash my inner strength, determination, and discipline, paving the way for a transformative and empowering chapter in my life. From the wrestling mat to the goal ball court, I've learned the essence of resilience and teamwork, and with boxing, I am ready to add a new dimension to my athletic pursuits.
It's not just about punches and jabs. Boxing has become my canvas for self-expression and growth.
2023
Interviewed by Interrobang, Fanshawe College's official student newspaper
The interview, "Navigating Fanshawe with vision impairment" has been published in Interrobang on October 5, 2023. It talks about me using the many accessibility features and services at the college for efficient navigation and college success.
Click the button below to read the published interview-
Also, watch the interview below-
Some behind the scenes for you!
