S’pore actor Zhin Sadali gave up NYU scholarship to care for parents, visits New York 10 years later
Ten years ago, Singapore actor and TV presenter Zhin Sadali gave up a scholarship to New York University (NYU) to care for his parents.
Now, he has finally made it to New York — not as a student, but as a working adult on his first solo trip.
Zhin shared an emotional video of his trip to New York on Instagram on Aug 21, reflecting on the sacrifice he made a decade ago and how he eventually made it to the city anyway.
“10 years ago, I gave up my scholarship to NYU to take care of my parents but the universe returned my sacrifice in leaps and bounds 10 years later, and made sure I made it to New York,” he wrote.
The video shows snippets of Zhin travelling by plane, visiting the Statue of Liberty and Niagara Falls, and attending American pop singer Ariana Grande’s Eternal Sunshine concert.
At one point, he appears to tear up while on the bus.
Zhin captioned the video: “POV: The Universe had other plans for you.”
He said he decided to share the video on a Friday because “there are times when we just need that reminder after a long, tough week”.
“10 years may seem like a long time but never once did I ever doubt in the Universe and His timing,” he wrote.
“What feels like a delay may simply be the universe preparing the right moment, so ✨ trust ✨.”
He also gave a special shout-out to his parents for giving him their blessing to take the solo trip.
Based on his previous Instagram reels, Zhin’s trip to New York took place in July 2026.
‘Sometimes, rejection is a redirection’
The video has garnered around 159,000 views, 10,200 likes and 80 comments.
Zhin’s story appeared to have struck a chord with his followers, with many praising him for being an inspiration and wishing him and his loved ones well.
One commenter wrote: “Sometimes, rejection is a redirection. Not necessarily a bad thing. Things we learn as we grow.”
Another said: “We’re all so happy for you Zhin! may you continue to enjoy the fruits of your labour, and may happier days come for you and your loved ones~”
“I don’t know you but I love this for you. A much needed pick-me-up for me today,” another follower wrote.
Others praised the actor for putting his parents first.
“You are indeed rewarded for being good to your parents! May you be blessed even more,” one commenter said.
Another wrote: “Ok we are all crying too now… Alhamdulillah you are a good son.”
Zhin’s parents frequently feature in his social media content, and Zhin has previously shared glimpses of their close relationship.
Who is Zhin Sadali?
Zhin is a Mediacorp actor and TV presenter, as well as a spin instructor and personality with The Smart Local.
In 2025, he was named Most Promising Artist at Pesta Perdana, an annual awards ceremony celebrating Singapore’s Malay television industry.
He also stars in Channel 5’s latest drama Yes, Captain, as one of three young prison officers with the Singapore Prison Service.
The drama also stars local actress Tasha Low, a former member of South Korean pop group Skarf, and Clement Yeo, a Star Search 2024 finalist.
Stomp has reached out to Zhin for more information.
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