Paralympian Toh Wei Soong: An Artist First, Athlete Second

Toh Wei Soong, a 27-year-old Paralympic swimmer from Singapore, has made headlines not just for his impressive medal tally but also for his assertion that he is an artist first. With multiple accolades at prestigious events like the Asian Para Games, where he secured three gold medals in 2023 in Hangzhou, China, Toh has established himself as a formidable athlete. He has represented Singapore at two Paralympic Games, competing in Tokyo in 2021 and preparing for the upcoming event in Paris in 2024.

Toh’s journey in swimming began as a form of rehabilitation after being diagnosed with transverse myelitis at the age of two. This rare neurological condition has shaped his life, requiring him to rely on a wheelchair or crutches. Swimming provided him not only with physical activity but also a sense of belonging during his formative years at Anglo-Chinese School (Independent). Toh recalls, “Joining the school’s swimming team at the age of 14 meant far more than just participation in a co-curricular activity. It allowed me to be recognized for my body’s capabilities.”

Balancing Athletic Pursuits and Personal Struggles

Despite his success, Toh has faced significant challenges, including a struggle with depression linked to the pressures of excelling both academically and athletically. His daily routine involved early morning swim practices, followed by school and afternoon training, leaving little time for leisure activities. “I suffered as a result of my own ambition for many years,” he stated. This relentless pursuit of excellence came at a personal cost, often sidelining friendships and other interests.

Reflecting on his past, Toh acknowledged that a more balanced approach might have been healthier. “It might have been wiser and kinder to myself if I had spaced things out a bit more,” he said. Nevertheless, he credits family, friends, and creative pursuits for helping him navigate through tough times.

A Multifaceted Artist

Toh’s identity extends far beyond the swimming pool. He is an avid reader and a passionate writer, having pursued studies in philosophy, political science, and economics at the National University of Singapore, where he graduated in 2022. His creative explorations include directing a documentary titled The Lives of Farrer Park, which chronicles the sporting history of an area close to his heart.

His artistic lineage includes a grandmother who was a calligrapher and a father who is a modernist architect. Toh’s childhood was filled with artistic endeavors, from practicing Chinese painting to performing self-written plays. Recently, he has turned his focus to design, particularly in adaptive fashion, collaborating with brands like Werable and Toyota. These projects aim to blend style and accessibility, reflecting his belief that inclusivity should be genuine and not merely performative.

Toh’s latest venture involves a collaboration with fashion brand Pedro, where he is painting directly on their products. “A canvas is completely blank, but a product already has its own identity,” he explained. He approaches this work with respect for the original design while seeking to create something uniquely meaningful.

As Toh prepares to launch his own fashion label, he draws inspiration from conversations with seasoned professionals in the industry. He recalls an enlightening discussion with the late fashion designer Laichan Goh, who encouraged him to pursue his passion with openness and dedication.

While he continues to excel in swimming, Toh views the sport as just one aspect of his evolving identity. He maintains a flexible perspective on future competitions, including the 2028 Summer Paralympics in Los Angeles, which he considers a milestone rather than a definitive endpoint. “I don’t know what the future will be, but I will make any decision based on what is true and right for me,” he affirmed.

Toh Wei Soong embodies the spirit of a modern athlete and artist, navigating the complexities of identity and ambition. His journey illustrates that while medals may define a career, the essence of a person often lies far beyond the accolades they receive.