Panthers of ISKL #328: Kishen J. (‘28) - The Adaptable Panther
Just as I was breaking down, one of my best friends of 7 years at the time, Aireel, started whispering in my ear words of encouragement. Without him, I don’t think I would have been able to face my fears and step forward with any sense of confidence. I took the penalty not because I was fearless, but because someone believed in me, and actually voiced it when I wasn’t able to fully believe in myself.
Meet Kishen J. (‘28), a Panther whose inspiration is captured from the people around him, and when making decisions, he tries to consider the values and actions of positive people, knowing that no one is perfect and life is a learning journey. Kishen is a true testament to how an individual can show adaptability in the face of adversity. Suffering a knee injury just before football tryouts in Season 1, he switched direction in Season 2 and found an unanticipated passion for swimming. He credits team bonding, coaching, and an ISKL culture that shows support to its students in facing challenges.
Here is Kishen’s story:
Please tell us more about yourself.
I was born in Thailand and spent the earliest years of my childhood moving between cultures, living in Bangkok before settling in Germany for four formative years. Although my nationality is Malaysian, my cultural identity has been shaped by multiple places and perspectives.
I joined ISKL in 2016, in Grade 1, and it has been my home ever since. Growing up at ISKL has introduced a wide range of opportunities, allowing me to explore my interests and gain confidence.
What advice would you give to other students about joining ISKL?
My advice to students joining ISKL is to sign up for as many activities as you can and fully take advantage of the opportunities this incredible school provides. Try out for a team, whether that is sports, MUN, or debate. Get involved in a club that interests you. This is how I discovered some of my passions, and it has made my time here far more meaningful.
We understand that you love sports. Please tell us your favorite sport and what sport you are pursuing at the moment.
My favorite sport has always been football, and it's the one I've always felt most connected to. Unfortunately, I got a knee injury just before tryouts, meaning I wasn’t able to pursue it. In Season 2, I joined the swim team, a sport I once hated. What I didn’t expect was how much that would change.
Thanks to the amazing coaches and the team culture, swimming became more than just training and competition. Through team bonding, shared challenges, and constantly pushing one another, I found a genuine passion where I least expected it (mostly thanks to my amazing coaches).
What inspires you in these sports?
When doing any sport, the most influential people are always the people around you. And thankfully, ISKL is filled with individuals who consistently encourage me and support one another to push each other to perform at a higher level.
Who influences you?
There is no specific person who influences me; rather, when making decisions, I try to consider the values and actions the ideal person would embody, while recognising that I am far from perfect and still learning.
What are your most memorable moment/s at ISKL?
I have a rather blurry memory of Grade 7. It was one of the best years of my life, though I don’t remember much of it. Something I can’t forget, however, is the BISP 7s Under 13 football tournament in Phuket, Thailand. It was November of 2022, the same time as the World Cup. We were undefeated as we made our way to the semi-finals. We tied the game and went to a penalty shootout. I remember vividly breaking down on the spot when our coach appointed me to take the final penalty. Just as I was breaking down, one of my best friends of 7 years at the time, Aireel, started whispering in my ear words of encouragement. Without him, I don’t think I would have been able to face my fears and step forward with any sense of confidence. I took the penalty not because I was fearless, but because someone believed in me, and actually voiced it when I wasn’t able to fully believe in myself.
Which Panther superlative best describes you, and why do you most associate yourself with this Panther?
I would classify myself as the most Fuyoh (Fuyoh means amazing) Panther because I approach challenges with focus and determination, remain composed under pressure, and constantly strive to contribute to the success of those around me.
Tell us why ISKL is special to you and what you like most about the school.
I Suka (Like) ISKL because I have been in this community for nearly a decade. Over the years, it has become more than just a school to me; it is a place where I've grown, made long-lasting friendships, and learned not only academically, but personally. What I value most about ISKL is the sense of belonging it remains true to and the people within it who continually support, challenge, and inspire one another.
What does ISKL’s vision, “Know yourself, care for all and create a better world,” mean to you?
To me, this means understanding who you are before trying to change the world around you. Knowing yourself allows you to act with intention. It's about recognizing your strengths, weaknesses, and values so you can grow with purpose. Caring for all reminds us that our actions affect others, so we must treat others with respect and kindness. When you combine those two, you are able to create a better world, maybe not in huge, abstract ways, but through everyday actions, choices, and the way we treat people.
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff member who always has an anecdote to tell, loves to share some insights into their passions and interests, or simply is a Panther through and through? Nominate them to be featured in our Panthers of ISKL stories by sending in your submissions here.