Post by Kah wan Gue

One week ago, team NYP was crowned the Grand Champion of PolyFinTech100! 🏆 It all started about six months ago, when I was still less than a year into teaching. A few students DBF approached me and said, “Cher, can you put your name down for PolyFinTech100?” My only request was: stay the course, persevere to the end, and I will walk with you every step of the way. What followed was months of intense ideation, countless consultations, endless refining, and a shared promise give our best and push through. Both teams made tremendous sacrifices—balancing their heavy academic load, personal commitments, and the demands of the competition. One team’s journey ended at the Category Finals, but their dedication, teamwork, and resilience were no less remarkable. They pushed themselves hard, showed up consistently, and grew so much through the process. I could not be prouder of them! Risa Dana Wong Lim Ching Kee Eliena Gau Zhi Xuan Chua Yun Rou Sim Zavieria Heng The other team went on to emerge as the overall champion out of more than 200 teams that joined this hackathon! Their solution delivered with passion, conviction and confidence! Behind that moment, was months of hard work, unseen, unglamorous, likely only to be known to them who went through it. I am honored to have walked this journey with them. Joseph Choo Ang Lik Hsean Nathan Kosasih Theophilias Lin A phenomenal achievement—but one built on shared learning, on the combined effort, and the spirit of everyone involved. As I look back, my heart is full. This win is also a reflection of the wider community behind supporting them along the way. Colleagues across SBM, SIT, and SDM who stepped in to support, guide, and uplift the teams. It was truly a village effort. A special shout-out to Kelvin Quee, who came in very early to guide and sharpen the students’ thinking. To Alvic Eugene Josol , who has always been rallying, motivating, and supporting every team. To Leong S. and Wilson Tan for your support, encouragement and timely advice. To Doris Teh and Anthony Ng , who moved schedules and make time for the team. And of course, to my wonderful DBF team, whose unwavering support makes everything possible! Jude Sun Emily Phoon Ruzaini R. Siewnee Ong Grateful. Proud. And reminded once again that teaching is never a solo endeavour and winning is never a solo outcome. It truly takes a village and I am grateful to be part of this one. #NANYANGPOLYTECHNIC #NYPDBF