Malaysian Down syndrome youth discovers talent for baking, earns cash doing what he loves

Thanks to hours of vocational training, Gerard’s kitchen skills are improving. Photos: The Star/Azlina Abdullah

Gerard Veerasingam Nicholas is a picture of concentration as he meticulously rolls cookie dough, shapes them and carefully sprinkles them with peanuts before they go into the oven. The 18-year-old loves baking and although he takes his time doing the tasks assigned to him, the end results are always good.

His is supervised by his special education teacher, Jessie Lim, who isn’t at all concerned about Gerard’s slow pace in the kitchen.