Singapore celebrates its 48th birthday on Aug 9, and to tie in with this, The Straits Times Picture Desk has put together 48 Singaporean Seconds, an audio-visual tribute to Singaporeans who have made this little red dot their home.

We are releasing their stories and videos in the next few weeks. In the 17th instalment of our series, we talk to skateboarder Mohammad Farris Abdul Rahman.

Mohammad Farris Abdul Rahman, 18, skateboarder

Mohammad Farris Abdul Rahman believes anything is possible as long as you put your mind to it.

He has come a long way himself since picking up skateboarding in Bishan Park when he was just four.

Today, the Republic Polytechnic student, who is studying for a diploma in outdoor and adventure learning, has the honour of being the first Singaporean skateboarder to be sponsored by Red Bull energy drink. The 18-year-old also gets support from Vans Shoes, which provides him with products like shoes and apparel.

He says he never imagined becoming an athlete - and a sports entrepreneur, too. Together with two elder brothers who are also skaters, he owns a skateboarding company called Sotong Skateboards. He has a younger brother who does not skate.

Besides winning local tournaments including this year's Vans Go Skateboarding Day, Farris has flown to countries such as Indonesia, Japan and the United States to compete. Last year, he placed an impressive sixth place among professionals at the Maloof Money Cup in South Africa.

He is thankful for what he has achieved and to those who have helped him. He credits his success to his family, sponsors and a few individuals in his life: "I wouldn't be at this level without support from all these people."

- Photos and videos by The Straits Times Picture Desk