Since I started illustrating in 2018, becoming a National Geographic infographic designer, or someone of that caliber, has been my goal. That’s why I took the leap and left my job at the aquarium.

For years, I struggled to reach the level I aspired to. My savings slowly dwindled, and I had to start looking for other sources of income. Scientific illustration wasn’t exactly a common or recognised job in Southeast Asia back then. But in recent years, as science communication gained more attention, things began to shift.

Fast forward to today: I was commissioned by NUS Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions. I was over the moon.

I really enjoyed creating this piece, especially collaborating and refining the work to accurately capture the topic: Green-grey infrastructure. It’s a hybrid approach that combines the strengths of traditional engineering with the benefits of nature-based solutions, like mangroves and bamboo fences, to protect coastlines from erosion, rising seas, and extreme weather. This kind of solution holds promise for Southeast Asia’s coastal communities. It’s sustainable, cost-effective, and supports local ecosystems at the same time. 

Illustration: Kenneth Chin

Design and text: NUS Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions

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