Toyota Singapore brought a powerful blend of fashion, innovation, and inclusivity to the fore with its Start Your Impossible Hero Project 2024. Held at the Toyota Boutique on Leng Kee Road on 12 December 2024, this event was a milestone for adaptive design, headlined by none other than Singapore’s Paralympic star, Toh Wei Soong. Making his debut as Creative Director, Toh redefined the possibilities of adaptive fashion in a runway showcase that celebrated diversity and self-expression.
Adaptive Fashion with a Bold Vision
Toh Wei Soong, a decorated Paralympic swimmer and Global Team Toyota Athlete, teamed up with Claudia Poh, the founder of adaptive fashion label Werable. Together, they unveiled a 16-piece collection that masterfully combined practicality with style, shattering outdated notions of what adaptive clothing could be. Their designs, modelled by individuals of diverse abilities, proved that functional clothing can also be a powerful form of self-expression.
“The hero project is about becoming the best version of ourselves,” Toh shared during the event. Drawing inspiration from his love of history and culture, his designs captured stories of transformation and growth, themes deeply tied to Toyota’s Start Your Impossible ethos.
Toh Wei Soong has been a symbol of resilience and determination. As a Paralympic swimmer, he has represented Singapore on the global stage, winning accolades at the Commonwealth Games, Asian Para Games, and beyond. Off the pool deck, Toh is a passionate creative, serving as Editor for ONZ Magazine, a platform for Singapore’s street fashion, and Ortus Journal, which explores cultural and philosophical themes.
The collection was a celebration of confidence and individuality, with each piece telling a story of empowerment. Toh’s thoughtful vision and Claudia Poh’s expertise in textiles delivered a memorable showcase that left audiences inspired.
Fashion on Wheels: The Toyota RAV4 Makeover
One of the highlights of the event was a custom Toyota RAV4 featuring a striking design based on Toh Wei Soong’s own sketches. More than just a showpiece, the vehicle embodied the spirit of innovation and inclusivity that the Start Your Impossible Hero Project championed. It was a bold statement on the connection between fashion and mobility, reinforcing the message that creativity knows no limits.
Ng Khee Siong, Managing Director of Borneo Motors Singapore, shared his enthusiasm: “Toh Wei Soong’s vision for inclusive fashion aligns perfectly with Toyota’s mission to inspire people to break barriers. This project brought that vision to life beautifully and tangibly.”
A Showcase with Purpose
Beyond the glamour of the runway, the project continues to make a profound impact. Toh’s adaptive collection will be auctioned after the show, with all proceeds going to the Society for the Physically Disabled (SPD), an organisation that has been pivotal in his journey. The event also will also raise additional funds through the sale of the custom Toyota RAV4, contributing $5,000 to SPD’s mission to support individuals with disabilities.
“Fashion has the power to uplift and empower,” Toh said. “It’s about dignity, confidence, and self-expression. I hope this project inspires others to see the potential for change and embrace their uniqueness.”
