A high school “challenge day” program commenced Steve’s advocating efforts for inclusiveness. He was asked to speak about his life challenges and how he had overcome them. This event started the disability awareness campaign for Steve, and he started speaking about what it is like to live with a disability in local schools and colleges. Steve has founded “Beyond Disabilities” with an aim to educate the community on the capabilities of people with disabilities. He is also a motivational speaker and has a variety of audiences including classrooms, businesses and churches to name a few. Steve is a board member of The Arc of King County. He has competed at an international level in Track and Field and was voted “2015 Best College Athlete” and “2015 Best Amateur Athlete”.

What inspired you to found “Beyond Disabilities”?S: When I was in high school, I had an opportunity to participate in a program called “Challenge Day.” That program inspired me to write a speech about my life and its challenges and how I overcame these challenges. I then created a PowerPoint to accompany my presentation. I started to speak at the local high schools targeting their health classes.
After high school, I continued to speak at high schools and started to speak at colleges. I love presenting and it made sense to start Beyond Disabilities, which is a nonprofit, and spread the word to schools, colleges, churches, rotary clubs, retreats and conferences. My goal is to speak nationwide and eventually worldwide. I did have the opportunity in 2012 to speak at my birthplace Taipei, Taiwan. It was an amazing experience.

What initiatives are needed to increase disability awareness?S: I think the more people are aware that people with disabilities have a lot to contribute to the world, a better place it will be. Companies need to be aware of including people with disabilities into their work force. Schools need to include students with disabilities into their curriculum. The more people are in contact with people with disabilities, the more included they will be in society. Through my speaking engagements, I am changing perception one step at a time.

Which of your qualities can help you to become a successful Paralympian?S: I have not actually competed at the Paralympics but that is a goal of mine. I have competed at the Paralympic trials and I have won medals at International competitions.
My qualities that keep me going are persistence, diligence, and motivation. I like to succeed in whatever I do and I work hard to achieve my goals.

What challenges did you face during your school days? How did you motivate yourself to face those challenges?S: When I was in elementary school I encountered my first bullying experience in third grade. A kid in my class called me a “retard.” Luckily, I had a core group of friends who stood up for me and would not tolerate his bullying.
When I first started middle school, there were three elementary schools that combined into middle school. There were children who had never seen someone in a wheelchair, perceived me a weak, and started to bully me. I had to become a self-advocate and went to the Vice Principal’s office and told him about the bullying. The school had a zero tolerance policy towards bullying and backed me up. It was a learning experience and helped me to become a self advocate.

What are your other hobbies?S: My biggest hobby is working out. I go to the gym at least 5-6 times each week. I work hard to strengthen my muscles and really enjoy it. Other hobbies are listening to music, watching football, and hanging out with friends.

What is your favorite place to visit? What do you love about that place?S: Recently I took Amtrak to Portland and loved visiting there. It was so easy to get around with my wheelchair. Probably my favorite place to visit is Taiwan. I visited Taiwan in 2012 and spoke at a charity dinner for the organization who facilitated my adoption. I also spoke at a Taiwan university and two high schools. I’m planning a trip to Taiwan again (hopefully in 2020) with a few friends. In 2012, we spent a lot of time in Taipei but I’d like to visit the rest of the country.

What is your suggestion for families of children with disabilities to empower their children?S: Parents need to teach their children to advocate for themselves. They also need to make sure that they are included with other children both in school and in after school activities.

What tips/advice do you have for those in our community who want to become an athlete?S: There are many ways to become involved as an athlete. When I was younger, I played baseball, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, swimming, track and field and weightlifting. It’s important to try different activities and you will hopefully find one to excel.

Any special message for our community?S: My special message would be to “accomplish your goals at your own pace.”