I was recently invited to speak on ReSkills OnStage, a global learning platform, known for its affordable, real-time, bite-sized education that connects professionals, students, and aspiring learners across the world. What stood out most was how deeply aligned the platform is with my mission: using AI to make knowledge more accessible, workflows more efficient, and people more confident.
A Platform for Global Learning
ReSkills OnStage is one of the platform’s signature offerings. It brings together a global audience and a diverse lineup of expert speakers, covering a wide range of professional topics. What I found refreshing was the interactive format. I had the opportunity to share my personal and professional journey, and I was thrilled by how active and insightful the audience was throughout.
As I said during my session:
“I believe that I learn from the questions that people ask me. So, it was a great experience.”
The learners weren’t just listening. They were thinking, questioning, and reflecting. For a speaker, that kind of energy is gold.
How My Journey Began
During the talk, I walked the audience through my unlikely path: from a UK-based software engineer to an education consultant in Singapore, then a LEGO-based creator and ultimately, a generative AI consultant. It’s a mix that sometimes surprises people.
“It started over 20 years ago when I moved here from the UK… I landed in Singapore and just stayed because I actually didn’t want to go back to the cold weather. I reset my career and started afresh in Singapore, which was quite an immigrant story.”
That “immigrant story” theme was one I touched on because it’s central to how I now think about AI. Much like how I started over, AI invites us to reset how we work, think, and collaborate, and it doesn’t matter where you begin.
Building with LEGO and Language
My journey isn’t just about tech. It’s also about creativity and culture. I built a LEGO business on the side, designing miniature concert stages and instruments. And I ran language and enrichment programs in Singaporean schools. That fusion, technical skill, creativity, and human communication is what now drives my work in generative AI.
“LEGO is a toy, but it’s very modular. In AI, we also break down big systems into smaller components. So there is a connection there in how we build.”
This systems-thinking approach has helped me design AI workflows that are not only efficient but also intuitive.
Empowering the Non-Tech Crowd
One key theme I highlighted was the untapped potential of non-technical users: educators, creators, and small business owners who may not code, but deeply understand their own domains.
“AI is going to bridge that gap between domain knowledge and technical knowledge. Because with AI, all you’re needing is language ability. You’ve got to know how to talk to the AI system.”
That’s where the real transformation lies. With the right prompts and a little experimentation, even non-coders can start using AI to accelerate their goals.
Challenges in Simplifying AI
Of course, there are challenges. One of the biggest is managing expectations. People often assume AI can do everything. But like any tool, it needs structure and purpose.
“Think of AI like an intern. If you don’t break things down and give it clear instructions, it’s going to get confused.”
I used that analogy during the session, and it seemed to resonate. Especially when I compared it to LEGO: you don’t just dump bricks on the table and expect a masterpiece. You build, step by step.
Real Tools, No Jargon
What I’ve found works best in my workshops is a “show, don’t tell” approach. No jargon. Just real tools and real outcomes.
“I want to make sure everyone is clued up on what it is, what it can do, what it can’t do, and how to use it well.”
With platforms like Cababara, n8n, Zapier, and Flowise, even those without technical backgrounds can build powerful automations. That’s the magic of no-code AI.
The Role of Human Creativity
As much as AI is evolving, I always emphasize that it’s not replacing human creativity, it’s extending it.
“It’s a thinking partner. AI can fuel ideas. You brainstorm with it, and it throws back suggestions. Sometimes, things you hadn’t considered. That’s not replacement. That’s augmentation.”
This perspective helps ease fears and empowers people to experiment.
AI Governance and the Road Ahead
We also discussed the importance of AI governance. I’m currently diving deeper into this area through my work with Straits Interactive, an organization at the forefront of responsible AI and data privacy in Singapore.
“It’s going to be the ethics, the governance., that’s what people should be concerned about. What is the AI outputting? Are there guardrails? What are the risks?”
This is where standards, safety, and human oversight must guide us.
Advice for Beginners
I wrapped up my session with three simple suggestions for anyone starting out:
- Experiment with prompts in ChatGPT or Claude. Start with frameworks. Explore roles and tasks.
- Try no-code tools like Cababara, Zapier or n8n to build simple automations.
- Consume responsibly. Don’t share personal data with AI platforms, and understand the privacy settings.
“You already have domain knowledge. That’s your superpower. Use AI to amplify it, not replace it.”
Final Thoughts
Speaking on ReSkills OnStage was more than just a talk. It was a moment of connection with learners, with educators, with people excited about technology but unsure where to start. And it reminded me that we’re all learners here.
Thank you again to the teams at ReSkills, IWAI, and Straits Interactive. And to everyone who joined the session and stayed engaged: your curiosity fuels this movement.
Let’s keep building.
