#legend100 on the fathers, husbands or mentors that inspire them
Jun 13, 2025
With Father’s Day nearing on the calendar, Stephenie Gee asks our #legend100s to pay tribute to the men – fathers, husbands or mentors – who have nurtured, guided and inspired them
Alex Lam @alamfish
“Mr. Thompson was my English literature teacher in high school, and he shaped my life by believing in and encouraging me. I was 12 at the time and had just started boarding school in England. I remember one day in class he asked a question about the text to the whole class and after no one responded, he called on me! I remember the care he gave me while asking. It opened my mind, and after sharing my thoughts, he made me realise that my thoughts and reflections were insightful and accurate. He guided my education through the rest of my years at that school, and I hope one day I might be able to do the same to another young spirit.”
“My dad when he was still alive used to tell me, ‘It’s okay to make mistakes – they are stepping stones to growth,’ and this is something that has really stuck with me.”
Ayla Sham @yuetyuetxx
“I'm so thankful for my dad, who has given me everything and worked so hard to provide for me. His strength, dedication and selflessness inspire me every day, and I know the sacrifices he’s made to ensure I have a better life. I’m forever grateful for his love, care and guidance, and I just want to say — I love you, Dad.”
“My father has always been my greatest teacher, instilling in me the values of hard work and compassion. His unwavering strength in the face of challenges inspires me to persevere and find joy in every moment. I cherish our time together, whether sharing laughs or discussing life’s lessons. His wisdom and unconditional love guide me daily, and I am proud to call him my dad. He truly shapes who I am.”
Fiona McLeish @fionamcl
"My father never imposed specific expectations on me; instead, he encouraged me to strive for excellence in all my endeavors while prioritizing my happiness above all else. Thank you for always believing in me dad. Happy Father’s Day!"
Jeremy Wong @jeremixmatch
“My father shaped the way I look at things, the judgement of beauty, the way and tone I talk, what is right or wrong, cars that I like, and even the kind of style and clothes I assume is ‘cool’.”
Jessica Jann @jessjann
“My dad has always been the person who would help us do things! He would without fail help us get things done. If our gas tank was going down, he would fill it for us. If we needed a ride to the airport (or anywhere for the matter), he would be the one to take us. He also loves my mom, is so loyal and protects her fiercely! He was always and is still such a reliable person!! I think I’m similar in that way and I look up to my dad so much. I love you Babi!”
Matt Orr @mattorr8
“My dad has had a huge influence on who I am today. His determination, work ethic and resilience feel more yourself, not less. He should uplift you are the foundations which I still rely on today. and not burden you! This is the father figure my How he has provided, protected and taken care husband Lucas has demonstrated, and I want of our family is also something I aspire to replicate in my own future life."
“I am very grateful for all the trust, support and freedom that my dad has given me in my life to make my own decisions, and I been working incredibly hard to achieve what I want and prove that my decisions are worthy.”
Tim Fung @sunday.son
“My dad is really an anchor for our family and always inspires us to become the best we can be – whether it’s in business, love or personal development. He’s loving, dedicated and a bit up in the clouds sometimes, but he’s a visionary and the most hard-working person I know. He never fails to pave a way and a life for his children that he could only dream of when he was a kid. For that, I am so grateful to call him my dad. He inspires us every single day.”
Utah Lee @utahlee
“Behind every badass daughter is a true superhero dad. My dad is an all-round convenient store coz I go to him for literally anything. My father believed in me and that is the greatest gift for life.”
Veronica Li @vnikali
“Look for a man who doesn’t just love you at your best but also give you strength during your struggles. Wait for the one who makes you feel more yourself, not less. He should uplift you and not burden you! This is the father figure my husband Lucas has demonstrated, and I want to pass this on to Valentina.”
Yatho Wong @wongyatho
“I can't recall the last time I celebrated Father's Day, but when I think of my father, the first memory that comes to mind is lion dancing. He was a kung fu master, and when I was young, I would follow him every year during celebrations to go lion dancing. I would tuck my hands into his pockets so I wouldn’t get lost amidst the crowds and cheers. I miss those times. I’m sure you’re watching from where you are, and I hope you're proud of what I've become. Happy Father's Day.”
