Towards Success
In 2023, Shanti Pereira became the first Singaporean to qualify for the 200m event at the 2024 Paris Olympics, fulfilling a lifelong goal that started during her primary school years. “Qualifying for the Olympics has literally been a dream come true,” says the 27-year-old track and field athlete.
“Qualifying for the Olympics has literally been a dream come true.”
Pereira’s journey to becoming a high-performance athlete began at the age of nine, when she started winning races on sports day at school. After breaking national sprint records in her youth, in 2015, she was catapulted further into the spotlight when she won gold in the 200m and bronze in the 100m at the SEA Games, marking the first time in 42 years a Singaporean athlete stood on the podium. Her winning streak continued in 2023, including a gold in the 200m race at the 19th Asian Games, ending Singapore’s nearly five-decade-long wait since 1974.
“The biggest challenge I’ve had to overcome,” says Pereira, “was dealing with the pressure and expectations of others.” It took her a few years to come to terms with the fact that this is an inherent part of being a top athlete.
“In sports, there are so many uncertainties, so now I just remind myself to focus on what we know and what we can control.”
Learning to let go of things beyond her control is a principle she applies to other areas of her life as well, such as being recognized in public. “That won’t stop me from enjoying my downtime, like going to a coffee shop to unwind in a more serene setting, as it offers a contrast from the intensity of training.”
The significance of being a world-class athlete representing her home country on the international stage is something Pereira takes pride in. “It feels amazing to have the ability to make people take notice of Singapore,” she says. She adds that even though people might not know where Singapore is, one of the first things she is often asked about is Singapore Airlines. This, she believes, underscores the global recognition and established reputation of the airline. “I can’t help but feel a sense of pride,” says Pereira, adding that the customer service provided by Singapore Airlines is particularly exceptional. “It just goes to show that even though we are a tiny nation, there is so much we can achieve.”
But no matter where she goes in the world, home is where her heart—and stomach—are. “I’m always happy when they serve local food,” she adds, noting that the laksa served on-board is particularly good—a testament to the airline's commitment to ensuring in-flight culinary offerings stay true to their respective culinary traditions. “When the Singapore Airlines crew announce ‘And to all Singaporeans, a warm welcome home,’ it makes me emotional to be part of that community,” reflects Pereira.
“Especially when returning after a long trip with the home-grown carrier, it always feels so good to come home.”
