Some journeys begin with talent, others with sheer determination – but the most extraordinary ones are shaped by unwavering support, love, and belief. Megan Tang’s story illustrates the transformative power of family support, transforming her into a dancesport athlete representing her country on the world stage.
Born with Down Syndrome, Megan Tang first joined Special Olympics Singapore as a Young Athlete in 2010. Young Athletes are an early childhood play program for children with and without intellectual disabilities, ages 2 to 7 years old. Over the years, Megan discovered her passion for dance, embracing movement with boundless energy and enthusiasm. When Special Olympics Singapore kickstarted its Latin Dancesport outreach, she found her rhythm and purpose.
Dance became her happy place, and as Megan, has previously put it, “I feel happy, relaxed, and calm when I dance.” Since then, her lively performances and infectious smile have lit up countless stages and events.
As More recently, the nineteen-year-old showcased her talent on the world stage at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy earlier this year. In the presence of an audience consisting of thousands, she confidently recited the Athletes’ Oath during the opening ceremony, reinforcing her growth and confidence as a young athlete leader. Her triumph in earning a silver medal in the Ballroom Traditional Mixed category further added another proud accomplishment to her sporting career.
Behind Megan’s success is a constant source of encouragement – her mother, Jasmine Lai, as well as her family. From the very beginning, Jasmine has believed in her daughter’s potential, steadfastly standing by her side through every step of her journey.
When Jasmine first received the diagnosis that her daughter had Down Syndrome, it was unexpected, but the news also came with an outpouring of love, as she recalled, “During the first trimester of our pregnancy, the doctor broke the news to us. But it was also through these scans that we saw a little hand waving at us, and we were very touched. We knew then – this is the one we must be with. She’s really a miracle of life.”
That deep love and belief have remained constant through every challenge and achievement. As Megan stood on the podium in Turin, silver medal in hand, Jasmine’s pride was immeasurable – not just because of her daughter’s win, but also because of everything it represented.
“Megan, you asked me if it’s okay that you got second place. Of course, it is. Because you’ve done your part, and we all support you. This is the best moment – one of the proudest moments of our lives.”
For Jasmine, Megan’s success has never been about rankings or medals. It has always been about her growth, confidence, and the sheer joy of doing what she loves. At every stage, Jasmine has reminded her that giving her best is what truly matters.
Dipak Natali, President & Managing Director of Special Olympics Asia Pacific echoes this sentiment. “Games like this offer us stability – stability in community, stability in understanding each other, and a reminder of what the beautiful spectrum of life should be. That’s what we stand for and celebrate here.”
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