2024 was a year of stark contrasts. Globally, it was marked by profound challenges: escalating geopolitical tensions, devastating conflicts, a worsening climate crisis, and a volatile political landscape. Yet, amidst this turmoil, I experienced personal milestones and triumphs that reaffirmed my belief in the power of resilience and the importance of pursuing one's dreams. This year's personal and global journey has been especially impactful.
Taking Flight in South Africa: A Paragliding Adventure
The year began with a lifelong dream finally taking flight – quite literally! I embarked on an intensive paragliding training course in the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa. Under the expert tutelage of Mathew Van Zyl, a renowned paragliding instructor in the region, I pushed my physical and mental limits. While I had some prior experience thanks to Kit’s mentorship in Hong Kong and Taiwan, Mathew’s rigorous training was a game-changer. It was a complete return to the basics, building a solid foundation in a breathtaking environment. Every moment, from the initial apprehension to the exhilarating feeling of soaring through the air, was unforgettable. Photographer and videographer Richard Mark Dobson documented this journey, and I'm excited to share the resulting film soon. This experience was more than just learning to paraglide; it was a lesson in embracing challenges with courage and curiosity.
Homecoming and Unexpected Challenges: Shoulder Surgery and Recovery
Back in Hong Kong, reality delivered a stark reminder of life's unpredictable nature. Persistent shoulder pain stemming from my 3,000-kilometer hand-cycling journey from Lithuania to Norway required urgent surgery. While I’ve had my share of surgeries, this one had a particularly profound impact. As a paraplegic, my arms and shoulders are essential for my independence. The recovery process was challenging, demanding patience, introspection, and a significant readjustment to my daily routines. This experience brought home the importance of appreciating the capabilities we often take for granted and reinforced my understanding of resilience. The enforced rest, however, unexpectedly allowed me to focus my energy on other endeavours, demonstrating how challenges can create opportunities for growth.
Entrepreneurial Growth: Launching FTS.Money and myvoucher.io
The enforced rest from physical training allowed me to focus my energy on my entrepreneurial endeavours. My like-minded business partners and I launched two exciting new business ventures: FTS.Money and myvoucher.io. Both projects represent significant expansions in my professional life, combining innovation with a strong sense of purpose. The time and concentration dedicated to these projects during my recovery period were key to their success, demonstrating how one challenge can pave the way for unexpected opportunities. This period of physical rest surprisingly led to a surge in entrepreneurial spirit.
Pushing Through Waves: Highlighting Para-Athletes in Endurance Sports
Another significant undertaking in 2024 was the launch of "Pushing Through Waves," a project born from a pivotal experience in 2019. This initiative aims to celebrate the incredible achievements of para-athletes in endurance sports. Partnering with Lithuanian adaptive rower Augustas Navickas, we documented our participation in the Hong Kong Around the Island Race, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of navigating 3-meter waves. Our story is not just about the thrill of the race; it's a powerful advocacy for the inclusion and recognition of para-rowers in adaptive coastal rowing. While we faced significant funding challenges, our commitment to this important project remains unwavering. The essence of "Pushing Through Waves" – showcasing the boundless resilience of the human spirit – resonates powerfully with broader societal movements advocating for inclusion and empowerment. The project is a testament to the power of collaboration and the determination to overcome obstacles in pursuit of a greater purpose.
Throughout early 2024, RTHK (Radio Television Hong Kong) followed my journey, filming various aspects of my life. They released a short documentary in September as part of their "Hong Kong Stories" series. I'm incredibly grateful to RTHK 香港電台 for creating such a powerful and moving film that tells my story. It's a privilege to share my experiences with a wider audience, and I hope it inspires others to pursue their dreams with firm determination. This documentary captures a significant part of my year, but there are even bigger challenges and exciting opportunities ahead as I pursue my lifelong ambitions. The film's release is not just a personal achievement; it's a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level.
A Year of Extremes: Global Events and Personal Reflections
The world stage in 2024 presented a whirlwind of events, each carrying its own weight of consequence and leaving a lasting impact. The ongoing war in Ukraine, with Russia's renewed offensive and the heavy toll on both sides, highlighted the devastating human cost of conflict. The West’s hesitant response to Ukraine’s needs also highlighted the complexities of international relations and the need for decisive action in times of crisis.
Developments in artificial intelligence (AI) continued to astound, showcasing the potential for incredible advancements in various fields. However, they also raise ethical concerns about potential misuse and the widening gap between rich and poor nations. We must recognise the need for responsible innovation and ensure that AI benefits all of humanity.
The climate crisis continued its relentless march, with 2024 becoming the hottest year on record. The devastating consequences of extreme weather events highlighted the urgency of addressing climate change. My paragliding journey in South Africa, a land of great natural beauty, underscored the beauty and fragility of our planet. This further reinforced my commitment to supporting sustainable initiatives and advocating for environmental responsibility.
The global political landscape was equally volatile, with voters worldwide punishing incumbents in elections. This anti-incumbency mood reflects a broader dissatisfaction with traditional politics.
The Paris Olympics and Paralympics offered a brief but powerful respite. The games showcased the remarkable athletic achievements of individuals from across the globe and the unifying power of sport. The spectacle and pageantry of the games, a reflection of French national pride and capability, stood in stark contrast to the ongoing geopolitical conflicts and the many other problems the world faced. The dedication and sportsmanship of the athletes provided a much-needed source of inspiration and hope, reminding us of the potential for human achievement when we work together towards a common goal.
In Summary
As 2025 has begun, the world faces a complex and uncertain future. Geopolitical tensions, conflicts, climate change, and economic instability will continue to pose significant challenges. However, 2024 has reinforced my belief in the power of human resilience, adaptability, and the enduring spirit of collaboration. My personal experiences, both triumphs and setbacks, have given me the strength and determination to face the challenges ahead. I will continue to pursue my entrepreneurial endeavours, champion the cause of para-athletes through "Pushing Through Waves," and contribute towards creating a more inclusive and sustainable world. The lessons of 2024 – perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of unity – will guide me as I navigate the path ahead.
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