Category: ActivistsPage 1 of 2
In our very first episode of A Singapore Story, we find out from non-profit ‘Hey, You Got Mail!’ why it was important for them to send personalised, handwritten letters to the elderly in Singapore’s nursing homes.
“Art tells people who we are, and represents what’s important to us. It is a visual language that cuts across cultures and languages.”
“We believe that nothing can recreate the feelings of warmth when one holds a personalised handwritten card. We want to share that warmth with the seniors…”
“You don’t have to be a bully. You don’t have to act tough just so that people will think you are strong. You can be strong while still being empathetic.”
Through “In My Shoes”, I hope to remove that financial barrier and give every kid in Singapore equal opportunity and access to proper (sports) footwear.
I show up everyday, with the belief that there needs to be more love in this world and a redefinition of what it means to be a leader…to be human.
I’ve always believed that if you felt passionately about a cause, you should do something about it. Don’t just say you care but do nothing. Action speaks volumes. I’ve always been drawn to issues of conflict involving refugees, so that’s why I continue to do the work that I do.
Looking to do good? Here’s a list of organisations that you can support to make the world we’re living in a better place.
There’s nothing complex about how I’m going about doing it. I don’t have to be a politician or impact the world in some grand way. If I can just be a friend to somebody, especially somebody in need, that fills my heart with joy…
We want to let these kids see the light in their situations so that they don’t focus on their parents’ problems. By linking them up with mentors who are there to provide healthy influence in their lives, hopefully these kids will be motivated to move towards a positive direction.
Are you ready for this sea of pink? Check out these stunning pictures by Kurt Ganapathy of the annual Pink Ribbon Walk that aims to bring hope and raise awareness of breast cancer in Singapore.
I think the greatest joy of what I do is making a positive impact on someone’s life. Education can really improve someone’s life for the better. When a person is better educated, s/he will be able to contribute meaningfully to society and pay it forward to the rest of the community, as was the case for me.
You can’t expect a 10-year-old to understand the world – even at 68, I still don’t understand the world either. And I know that my relationship with a mentee might not last more than two years, but hopefully when he grows up, whatever impression I’ve had on him will help him in the future.
ISCOS is preventing ex-offenders from returning to the world of crime and helping them become useful citizens of our society. Getting a job can be difficult if you have a record. I hope the public understands their plight and supports them.
Unless you’ve been through the ecosystem, it really is an entirely different world. The reality of what they go through is really quite difficult. If you believe that someone deserves a second chance, you should sign up as well.
Crazycat is a platform that hopes to inspire and empower everyday women. There are many women’s organisations here in Singapore, but most of them tend to cater to more privileged women who are already in positions of power…
And in an ideal world where we can really make a difference, I want our students to discover and harness the community’s resources so that marginalised groups will be self-motivated to realise their own dreams and aspirations…
Yes, I feel happy and satisfied now. My full-time job helps pay the bills, but the work I do here keeps me feeling fulfilled. To call it a calling would be an exaggeration, but I do feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that I can at least contribute something worthwhile back to society.
Don’t volunteer for the sake of volunteering; volunteer with commitment and heart. Just know that the universe works in funny ways. The more you give, the more you will get. Stick to this belief and volunteer work won’t be a hassle.
Kurt Ganapathy follows different groups of volunteers as they carry out selfless acts of kindness to bring you these lovely images that commemorate Singapore turning 53. Happy National Day!