How a Disappointing PSLE Score Sparked a Mission to Democratise Mentorship
Felix Lee once dreamt of attending Hwa Chong Institution, driven by its prestige and a deep desire to prove himself. To qualify, he needed at least 250 points in his Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE). With unwavering determination, he promised his grandfather he would reach that goal.
But when the results came in—186 points—his dreams seemed to collapse. Overwhelmed with disappointment, Felix believed his future had been defined by a single moment of failure. However, he would soon learn that setbacks can be the foundation for something greater.
Years later, Felix co-founded ADPList, a mentorship platform connecting aspiring professionals with world-class experts. His journey from self-doubt to global recognition earned him a spot on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Asia list. Yet, success wasn’t just about personal achievement for him—it became a mission to make career guidance accessible to all.
During the pandemic, Felix saw an urgent need for meaningful mentorship. While some professionals struggled to access advice, others were eager to share their knowledge. Recognising this gap, he created ADPList, a free platform that removes traditional barriers to mentorship. Today, the network spans over 140 countries, featuring mentors from leading companies such as Apple, Netflix, and LinkedIn.
Felix’s early struggles shaped his mindset. A pivotal moment came when a teacher told him, “You laugh in class, but I know you can do better.” These words ignited a renewed sense of purpose. He excelled in his ‘N’ Levels, earned a scholarship to Singapore Polytechnic, and launched his first startup, Packdat, which sold for $200,000 while he was still a student.
Determined to push boundaries, Felix travelled to Silicon Valley at just 20, meeting industry leaders and challenging the notion that Singapore couldn’t produce global startups. He returned with a bold vision: to redefine mentorship as a universally accessible resource.
Felix invested his own savings to build ADPList, which has since secured $1.3 million in seed funding. More than a business, the platform represents his belief that success isn’t about privilege or perfect grades—it’s about access to knowledge and opportunities.
As ADPList continues to grow, Felix remains focused on his mission: breaking down barriers, empowering individuals, and proving that no setback is final—only a stepping stone to something greater.
