Real Stories.
Real Journeys.
Real Possibilities.
Meet the Founding Champions of Pertubuhan Rentak, Irama, Seni & Ekspresi — neurodiverse young adults whose talent, courage and creativity are building pathways for those who follow.
“Talent changes perceptions faster than sympathy ever can.”
I remember the days when my son would hide in a storeroom rather than face another day of bullying at school.
I remember the examination papers that came back blank, not because he lacked ability, but because he no longer believed he belonged.
Like many parents of neurodiverse children, I worried about their future. I wondered whether society would ever see beyond a diagnosis and recognise the talents and potential that lay beneath.
Then something remarkable happened.
Through music, he found his voice.
The same young man who once avoided classrooms began performing on stage. The same classmates who had mocked him were now applauding him.
That experience taught me a lesson I would never forget: Talent changes perceptions faster than sympathy ever can.
That belief became the foundation of RISE.
At RISE, we believe neurodiverse individuals should not be defined by their challenges but recognised for their abilities, creativity and potential. Our role is to provide opportunities for them to discover their voices, develop their talents and become advocates for diversity, inclusion and possibility.
The Founding Champions featured in this booklet represent that vision. Through their journeys, talents and achievements, they help society move beyond labels and recognise the value that neurodiverse individuals bring to our communities.
Our aspiration is that one day every state in Malaysia will have its own RISE Champions – individuals who inspire others, challenge perceptions and create pathways for those who follow.
This website celebrates our first Founding Champions. May their stories remind us that when talent is given a platform, lives change.
And when lives change, communities change with them.
Datin Hasnah Abdul RahmanPresident, Pertubuhan Rentak, Irama, Seni & Ekspresi (R.I.S.E.)
"Talent changes perceptions faster than sympathy ever can."
Champions make neurodiverse talent visible — changing how society sees ability, not just disability.
Champions inspire families and communities — showing what is possible when talent is given a platform.
Champions become advocates for diversity and inclusion — leading by example, not by label.
What the Champions programme sets out to do.
Inspire Through Representation
Showcase authentic neurodiverse success stories that inspire individuals, families and communities.
Amplify Neurodiverse Voices
Provide a platform for champions to share their experiences, talents and journeys of growth.
Build a Culture of Possibility
Challenge stereotypes and demonstrate the diverse strengths and potential within the neurodiverse community.
Four pillars that drive the Champions programme.
Champion Storytelling
Document and share real-life journeys through publications, media features, digital content and speaking engagements.
Peer Role Modelling
Connect emerging participants with champions who can inspire, guide and encourage their personal development.
Community Engagement
Create opportunities for champions to participate in events, outreach programmes and advocacy initiatives.
Strategic Partnerships
Collaborate with educators, employers, NGOs, media organisations and industry partners to expand opportunities.
What every champion gains.
Leadership & Advocacy
Champions serve as ambassadors, speakers and advocates for inclusion and neurodiversity awareness.
Talent & Skills Development
Participation in mentoring, training, performances, workshops and creative projects.
Education & Career Pathways
Exposure to academic, vocational, entrepreneurial and employment opportunities.
National & State Recognition
Opportunities to represent R.I.S.E. at national programmes and inspire future State Champions across Malaysia.
Champions can emerge from any field.
R.I.S.E. Champions are neurodiverse young adults who have demonstrated talent, courage or leadership — in any area of human expression.
Real Stories.
Six founding champions. Six journeys of talent, courage and possibility. These are the neurodiverse young adults leading the way for those who follow.
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"Art became the language that allowed me to express what words could not."
Thasraveen Chandra Segaran ·R.I.S.E. Champion Spotlight
Aveen — A Journey That Inspires
Diagnosed with ADHD and Asperger's, Aveen has transformed his creativity into a powerful voice for neurodiversity. An accomplished artist, model, actor and university student, he uses creativity as a platform for self-expression, advocacy and inspiration.
Through his artwork, fashion collaborations and community outreach, Aveen continues to challenge perceptions and create opportunities for others — demonstrating that talent knows no boundaries.
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"Music gives me confidence — it reminds me I can shine in my own way."
Sarah Ow ·Founding Champion
Sarah Ow — In a Heartbeat
Blessed with perfect pitch, Sarah possesses an extraordinary ability to identify and reproduce musical notes with remarkable accuracy.
Whether singing, playing the piano or guitar, or teaching young students, Sarah demonstrates how talent becomes a pathway towards confidence, self-expression and personal growth.
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"Music became my voice; writing became the way I make sense of the world."
Aidel Morshidi ·Founding Champion
Aidel Morshidi — More Than Words
Aidel is equally comfortable on the stage and on the page. A gifted writer, vocalist and public speaker, he uses music and storytelling to share his thoughts, experiences and perspectives.
His educational journey has taken him through mainstream education, specialised support and skills-based learning pathways. He has won a number of awards for his academic and professional achievements. Today, he continues to advocate for greater understanding and opportunities for neurodiverse young adults.
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"Music opened the door. Confidence gave me the courage to keep walking."
Elza Bok ·Founding Champion
Elza Bok — Finding Her Rhythm
Elza discovered music through the piano before finding her true rhythm behind the drums. Over the years she expanded her range to electric guitar and bass.
Now pursuing a diploma in Hospitality and Culinary Studies, she is preparing for greater independence while continuing to nurture her love for music — proving that determination and the right support make all the difference.
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"Although my brain might be wired a little differently, that doesn't mean my worth is any less."
Lucas Law ·Founding Champion
Lucas Law — Rising Above the Noise
Growing up shy and reserved, Lucas struggled to find his place. It was through creativity — baking and music — that he discovered his passions and a way to connect with others.
Today, Lucas believes that everyone deserves to be seen, heard and treated with dignity. His differences make him unique, with strengths that deserve recognition.
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"Music gave me a way to channel my energy, express myself and lead others."
Joshua Johnson ·Founding Champion
Joshua Johnson — And the Beat Goes On
Diagnosed with ADHD at age six, Joshua channelled his energy into mastering multiple instruments, developing into a talented musician, vocalist and band leader.
His original composition Hello Malaysia was selected by Telekom Malaysia for its Merdeka campaign — a testament to the impact of his creativity and perseverance.
Every state deserves its champions.
Our aspiration: R.I.S.E. Champions in every state of Malaysia — inspiring others,
challenging perceptions and creating pathways for those who follow.
The champions who led the way.
Thasraveen (Aveen)
Sarah Ow
Aidel Morshidi
Elza Bok
Lucas Law
Joshua Johnson
Every champion follows a path.
Discover
Develop
Showcase
Inspire
Mentor
A national movement for diversity & inclusion.
Soon: Future national and state champions across every state in Malaysia.
Get involved with R.I.S.E. →