“[Health Minister Ong Ye Kung] presented awards to 11 students, including Ms Gautama, who received the Ngee Ann Kongsi Most Outstanding Overcomer Award. It recognises students with good academic achievements and strong perseverance in overcoming challenges.

When asked how she has maintained a positive outlook despite her circumstances, Ms Gautama said she intentionally chose not to dwell on the negatives and not to be ashamed of asking for help.

She said: “I just have to think of (the situation) positively. I know that there are people who want to help me, and if I can just reach out to them and remove myself from situations of self-doubt, I can always find a solution.”