A Family in Motion

Raising curious, kind boys ready for the world.

Two brothers, one shared journey. As a family that has always moved, adapted, and learned along the way, we're documenting Mikael and Louis's growth — in curiosity, in kindness, and in their sense of belonging to a wider world. This is the story of our path to joining the UWCSEA community.

Mikael Mikael
Louis Louis
Family Family
Family Family
01 · FAMILY

Our Story

Rooted in rural Zhejiang, we hold dear the values of simple, intentional living. Today in Shanghai, we thrive amid its vibrant cultural diversity, growing in our appreciation for cross-cultural connection and inclusion.

UWC's mission—to unite peoples and cultures for a peaceful, sustainable future—resonates deeply with us. We are equally drawn to your nature-centered campus, and your multilingual, interdisciplinary, experiential curriculum with an outdoor focus.

Our family together

The Family

  • Yang Lu| DadFamily pillar of wisdom · Forward-thinking professional
  • Danhong Ma| MumHeart of our home · Cultivates a warm, nurturing household
  • Mikael (b. 09/2021)| G1 Applicant, August 2028Endlessly curious · Eager to explore the world around him
  • Louis (b. 11/2023)| K1 Applicant, August 2028Full of innocent charm · Brings daily joy to our family
02 · VALUES

What guides us

Three values shape how we learn, live, and grow together.

East + West

We blend respect, perseverance, and humility with curiosity, creativity, and the courage to speak up.

Whole child

Academic growth matters, but so do emotional balance, social skills, physical health, and a sense of wonder.

Global citizens

We want our kids to feel at home anywhere in the world and responsible for making it kinder and more sustainable.

03 · MIKAEL

Mikael's growth

A year of curiosity, resilience, and quiet confidence.

Mikael at work on a project
Mikael
Age 5 · applying for Grade 1

A curious reader and a thoughtful young builder, growing more confident every day.

Project-based learning Reading & writing Social-emotional growth
"I feel frustrated, but I keep trying."
Mikael reading
Milestones
This year

Reading and writing independently, managing big feelings, and learning to ask for help.

Solar system Human body Geography Money & work
Every mistake is a "learning moment".
04 · LOUIS

Louis' world

A little explorer on his own path.

Louis exploring
Louis
Age 2 · applying for K1

Outgoing, big-hearted, and full of warm smiles.

Pretend play Books & music Outdoor fun
Learning new words through every game he plays.
Louis at play
Milestones
This year

Learning new words through pretend play, and growing up in a home full of language and love.

Animals Music Friends
Big heart, even bigger curiosity.
06 · TIMELINE

Milestones

The moments that shaped our family.

September 2021
Welcoming Mikael
Our first hello. Curious and observant, right from the very start.
November 2023
Welcoming Louis
A warm, big-hearted baby who filled our home with laughter.
2023
A love of reading takes root
From picture books to chapter books — stories become Mikael's window to the world.
2025
A family decision
We set our sights on Singapore, and our hearts on the UWCSEA community.
August 2028 (Upcoming)
Applying to UWCSEA
Mikael for G1, Louis for K1 — a new chapter unfolds, curious, kind, and ready for the world.
07 · LOOKING FORWARD

Our Next Chapter

What we hope for as a family — and all we look forward to building together.

Put down roots

A stable home in Singapore, with consistent daily rhythms and room to grow.

Build community

Deep ties with the UWCSEA community and lasting friendships.

Keep growing

Project-based learning, language growth, and plenty of play along the way.