PURPOSEDRIVEN WOMEN IN A
CEO’S MESSAGE CONTENTS
01 | Events at a Glance
02-03 | A Community of Empowering Collaborators
04 | A Guide to Giving Back
05 | Programmes & Events
■ Book Wizards Weave Magic
06-08 | Purpose-Driven Women in a Giving Community
10-14 | Programmes & Events
■ Shining, Inspiring Women
■ Date with Mum
■ Not Just Kicking About
■ Youth in Action
■ Grown Up but Still Growing
16 | Quiz-O-Mania
17 | One of Us
Dear Friends of SINDA,
We began 2024 with exciting news about a revision to our Per Capita Income (PCI) criteria – which has grown from $1,000 to $1,600 – to help our community in more impactful ways. This was important in offering adequate support to more families and individuals in our community and to assist them with their needs.
Since this revision, I’m very glad to see that more families and individuals have received SINDA’s support. In the first half of this year, our outreach for families with a PCI within $1,600 grew by over 85%, in comparison to 2023. Enrolment in our tuition programmes in the first half of the year was 4,300 students – 13% more than last year. We were also heartened to have supported 60% more beneficiaries with their financial and social needs.
Each one of these individuals, now receiving added support, represents a life transformed for the better. But SINDA’s commitment doesn't stop with helping more people. Several other initiatives across our various focus areas, including academic, enrichment and financial support, have also been strengthened to be more impactful.
These are efforts that we’ve undertaken to ensure a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone in the community, regardless of their circumstances. This is important in nurturing a successful community where everyone can flourish in their aspirations.
Strong, grounded aspirations are especially necessary for our younger generations for them to be strongly equipped for the future. Many of SINDA’s efforts focus on grooming them – the recent SINDA-ITE Dialogue saw 160 Indian students better understand pathways available to them after ITE; the ‘Let Her Shine!’ ShineSpire Conference saw young working women hear from and network with female role models in the industry; our Corporate Mentoring scheme saw youths learn from professional volunteers about their industry of choice, so that they are well-positioned to enter the workforce.
These are just some of the many efforts that everyone in the community can benefit from, in expanding their knowledge, and having the right resources and skills for the future. This is our commitment to the community: that whichever form of support you need, SINDA is here for you; not only to provide you with the relevant support, but to also cheer you on in your life journey and be an able companion at every step of the way.
Even as we see an increased number of families and individuals that we support, my hope is that more people step forward to benefit from SINDA, so that we remain a community that not just does well, but excels in every pursuit.
Anbarasu Rajendran, JP CEO, SINDA
PUBLISHER Singapore Indian Development
Chief Editor Dhanasegaran Narayanasamy Production
& LAYOUT Green House Design + Communications
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EVENTS AT A GLANCE
Chai & Chat
Striking a balance between work and home life can be tough for parents, as they strive to build meaningful connections. Our Chai & Chat Series provides social support and teaches parenting skills to help parents build strong bonds with their children.
Four sessions targeted at parents of 7 to 12-yearolds aim to provide practical tips and strategies that they can apply in their parenting journey. The first two sessions of the year were held on 26 May and 15 June at the SINDA Service Centre (Jurong) and SINDA HQ respectively. Parents valued the open and honest chat series which reminded them that they are not alone in the challenges they face.
Befriending and assessing at Brahm Centre SINDA’s commitment towards the seniors in our community continues! On June 8, our volunteers spent the day with elderly folks at the Brahm Centre (Simei), participating in activities such as exercise and craft. At the same time, we helped the Centre conduct screening tests for dementia, as early detection allows timely intervention. Social and mental wellness are both important, and we want our seniors to feel important, too. We look forward to more collaborations like this!
Seed-to-table sustainability
What is sustainability about when it comes to food?
Our Let Her Shine! ladies gained some insights into nutrition and eating sustainably during a workshop with City Sprouts on 27 April.
On a farm tour, they discovered various herbs and greens and met chickens and geese. While the school-aged participants made microgreen kits to kick-start their own edible gardens, the youths and young adults learnt how to minimise food waste and use simple ingredients to make an immunityboosting power snack.
A COMMUNITY OF EMPOWERING COLLABORATORS
IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO RAISE A CHILD
With SINDA focused on empowering the Singaporean Indian community, much of our efforts are only made possible by working with a large network of like-minded partners. Here’s a peek into some of our key areas of work and the many collaborators who lend their expertise or help amplify our efforts!
Among all of SINDA’s efforts, improving the academic performance of our students takes utmost priority. Each of our education partner brings unique strengths to the table and makes a profound difference in the lives of our students – making SINDA’s tutorial programmes accessible, supporting academic-related needs and ultimately empowering them to reach their fullest potential.
Ministry of Education (MOE) Schools have not just been hosting our STEP Programme for their own pupils as well as others in the neighbourhood, but also actively promoting it. This partnership with MOE is key in SINDA’s push to make tutorial classes available in every corner of Singapore!
Residents' Committees and Temples
Various community and religious organisations’ active involvement and support for our community-based Guide programme, Literacy & Numeracy programme (LYNN) and Landmark Exams Achievement Programme (LEAP) greatly enhance the accessibility and reach of our programmes.
Indian Activity Executive Committees (IAEC) They offer platforms for various initiatives such as SINDA's Project Guide, giving students a comfortable place to be tutored. IAECs have also been SINDA’s eyes on the ground to refer in-need students and families to us.
Singapore Indian Education Trust (SIET)
SIET and SINDA share a common belief that one’s educational journey should not be impeded by financial constraints. SIET provides interest-free study loans and collaborates with us to administer the SINDA-SIET tertiary bursary.
Private Education Institutions
SINDA offers scholarships in partnership with several established private educational institutions. These offer valuable opportunities to further one’s education by alleviating the cost of their chosen programme.
UPLIFTING FAMILIES, BUILDING COHESIVE TIES
Thanks to our partners, we are making significant progress towards a future where every family can thrive. Their dedication highlights the importance of nurturing our community and its most vital component: its people.
Religious Organisations
The Celebrate! Festive Gift Packs distribution each year is well supported by the Federation and its members, from sponsoring items for goodie bags to distributing these island-wide, bringing cheer to families during festive seasons.
Indian Business-leaders’ Roundtable (SINDA-IBR)
SINDA-IBR brings together Indian businessmen and industry captains who support our efforts for the community. Among their efforts, they also put a smile on the faces of vulnerable families by sponsoring their visits to local attractions all year-round.
Health Promotion Board (HPB)
Healthy snacks and tummy pleasers have been provided by HPB to promote healthy eating habits. They are also a sponsor for our signature Festive Gift Pack items that are distributed to disadvantaged families during the festivities.
HELPING THE NEXT GENERATION TAKE FLIGHT
SINDA’s youth programmes are more than just activities; they are life-lines that shape our youth’s futures. Behind every successful programme is a network of dedicated partners whose collective passion and commitment make all the difference.
Institute of Technical Education (ITE)
ITE campuses across the island work with us on programmes to offer Indian ITE students aspirational workshops, corporate mentoring and peer mentoring by alumni. We also come together to identify youths in need of financial support.
Narpani Pearavai
The IAEC Council, known as Narpani Pearavai, empowers many of our grassroots-centric efforts. In addition, we also co-organise the Dr Balaji Sadasivan Football Fives – an annual futsal competition that encourages sportsmanship, while promoting an active lifestyle.
Google has hosted young ladies from SINDA’s Let Her Shine! initiative, with sessions facilitated by the company’s AsiaPacific managers. These offer exposure to our young ladies on growth opportunities in diverse industries.
IBR Corporate Mentoring
SINDA-IBR and its member organisations offer students hands-on experiences and insights into career fields of their choice, with industry professionals working closely with mentees to help them understand the ins and outs of each industry, enabling them to make informed career choices.
National Youth Council (NYC)
NYC has consistently created opportunities for our youths to grow and develop with a strong sense of community and civic responsibility. An example is NYC’s Civic Conversations series, in which SINDA Youth Club members could meaningfully contribute to conversations and themes of national focus.
Cyberlite and United Overseas Bank (UOB)
SINDA collaborates with UOB and Cyberlite, a social enterprise focused on cyber safety and digital wellbeing. Programmes like "My Digital Space" equip families with online safety skills and resources to navigate the digital era.
Stick ‘Em
This local youth start-up has brought robotics to our students, teaching them how to turn their ideas into reality through block programming and design thinking. Our youth got the chance to showcase their projects, demonstrating solutions to real-world problems through coding and robotics.
Participate in Community Events
A myriad of causes await your time and skills—explore volunteer opportunities where your interests lie (tip: SINDA has lots!).
Campaign for Social Good
Make your social media accounts count, by highlighting important issues and what individuals can do to make a positive impact.
Contribute to Research
Put your hand up for surveys, focus groups and interviews conducted by community organisations (like SINDA). By sharing your insights and experiences, you will be contributing to how new initiatives are shaped.
Run Projects with SINDA
We love volunteer-led projects! Share your proposal with SINDA and let’s see how we can work together. We offer funding opportunities, such as the SINDA Community Impact Fund (SCIF) and the SINDA Research Fund (SRF), to help bring your projects to life and create change in our community.
FIND OUT MORE
Mentor Youth
Share your experiences, impart skills, provide advice and inspire youths as a positive role model! Many organisations, including SINDA, have mentorship programmes where you can guide youths. This could be for their academic, career or personal development.
Befriend and Support Isolated Elders
Be part of a support network for elders and their caregivers. Reach out with your time and friendship (there are many senior outreach programmes); bring some joy with you and find loads in return.
No man is an island, as they say, and there is much we can do for others, whatever our role in society. Here are some ways you can give back to your community!
Support Health and Wellness Initiatives
There is always a health fair, wellness workshop or fitness activity happening around the island, so take the plunge and participate, volunteer to help out, or even organise a new one! SINDA partners with various agencies on initiatives to support the well-being of our community. So, connect with us, and together, we can create a meaningful impact!
Offer Professional Skills
Your pro bono support (e.g. legal advice, financial planning, IT support, marketing) makes such services accessible to those with limited resources. Look for organisations that have such community schemes.
Visit https://www.sinda.org.sg/get-involved and be part of a community that keeps giving back. We look forward to collaborating with you.
BOOK WIZARDS WEAVE MAGIC
A warm welcome into the wonderful world of words is what 70 children are enjoying. Book Wizards, a 20-week programme for 4 to 7-year-olds, is bringing the magic of books alive through experiential learning.
Excitement brews every week, with story books, e-books and hands-on activities thrown into the mix. Children are whisked off to various attractions around Singapore, on learning journeys based on the ‘Timmy & Tammy’ series of books by local author Ruth Wan-Lau.
It is enchanting the young participants, but also empowering them with reading skills and growing a love of reading in them. Already, they are becoming little authors, as they fill their own jotter books during these sessions.
“Encouraging children to read at an early age is one of the best investments in their future. SINDA’s Book Wizards has instilled a love for reading in Anvi and I cannot wait to see this passion shape her future.”
— Mrs Patel Kalpana, Parent of Anvi
This year’s Book Wizards programme was launched on 23 June at the Geylang East Public Library, with 70 volunteers and 70 parents cheering on the students. Their graduation from the programme in December will be another proud moment, when their books will all be exhibited too.
Book Wizards has been keeping youngsters spellbound since 2020. You can find out more about the programme at www.sinda.org.sg/ children/bookwizards
“Thanks to SINDA for putting up a wonderful project. It has been a privilege to witness the positive impact it has on our children.”
—
Dr Prabha Eliya Singan, Volunteer
PURPOSEDRIVEN WOMEN IN A GIVING COMMUNITY
C KEERTHIGHA, 29
Tell us about the everyday you and your community alter ego.
I am about to graduate with a PhD in Psychology and embarking on a career in academia. I have also been running a home-based baking business, Cups & Keys, since 2015 and through it, established a community outreach programme, Project Pay It Forward.
How did you come to start Cups & Keys?
My mother sparked a deep love for baking in my childhood. I began making treats for classmates, who started placing orders! I established my business right after graduating from polytechnic. Navigating the business aspects on my own was challenging, but Cups & Keys garnered strong support, particularly within the Indian community, and it is a great source of pride to me today.
What is Project Pay It Forward about?
I had a vision of using the profits from my baking business for greater social good. Besides sponsoring children’s organisations and dog shelters, fund-raising for medical emergencies and education and providing meals for the needy, Project Pay It Forward also raises awareness of a wide range of community issues. I hope to foster collective action to address multiple needs so that we don’t overlook any aspect of our community’s well-being.
Seeing the impact of our efforts is deeply fulfilling. Others are also inspired, creating a cascade of kindness. Recently, we even expanded our efforts beyond Singapore to Pondicherry and Chennai in India.
What do an academic, a business advisor and a criminologist have in common? In this issue’s feature, these three ladies take time out from their busy schedules to give back to society in some unexpected ways.
Who is your inspiration for what you do?
My late beloved mother, Santhi D/O Palanisamy has been my greatest inspiration. She was a Tamil teacher and active with the Girl Guide movement, and greatly influenced my aspirations and commitment to giving back to society. Her unwavering support, encouragement and belief in my potential lifted me from average student to PhD scholar. I strive to reflect her values—kindness, dedication and especially generosity—through my community outreach initiatives.
Why take on social work, amidst all your other commitments?
It honours my mother’s legacy, as she taught me we should expand our capacity to share as we succeed. I see social work as a way to channel my empathy into meaningful action.
Please share one of your best experiences from your community outreach. One of the most memorable experiences was sponsoring and helping serve breakfast to thousands of foreign workers. I learnt about the power of small interactions and how community outreach is deeply enriched by personal involvement.
You believe in individuals and businesses working together to uplift their communities. How can they do this?
Individuals can help by supporting local shops and promoting local ventures. Businesses can support local causes, and collaborations can foster a thriving, interconnected ecosystem that strengthens the community. Over the past nine years, I’ve partnered over 30 local brands. Businesses can make a big impact, however modest the effort. Ultimately, making social responsibility part of the business practice can lead to meaningful and lasting positive change in society.
Do you have any advice for women trying to balance the various roles they play—in their careers, in society and in their families?
Leverage your strengths, set clear priorities and have support networks. With passion, determination and effective time management, we can excel in every role.
What keeps you busy?
I am a consultant specialising in sustainability change management. I recently published a book on this, titled The Action Gap, and am working on another. I am also deeply involved as a volunteer with the Singapore Sikh community in various roles.
You were a volunteer since your school days but in the last few years have focused your efforts on the Sikh community. How did you get on this path?
As a student I found the Singapore Sikh Education Foundation’s activities engaging. Later, I met new friends who were launching an empowerment camp, Bahadur Bachey, for Sikh children. Since then, I have also volunteered with the Central Sikh Gurdwara Board on other projects, and have also been a part of EnKaur, a women’s leadership development project commissioned by the Sikh Advisory Board of Singapore.
You support many causes; please share about one that is particularly meaningful to you.
As a young student I was not passionate about dementia awareness but after conducting research and engaging with individuals and caregivers affected, it evolved into something personal and profoundly meaningful. I’ve learnt from many seniors and want to help their voices be more heard and valued in society.
You majored in Political Science and Human Rights at university, what spurred this decision?
The prospect of travel and meeting new people led me into Political Science. Later, the film Taken moved me to take up a master’s scholarship in Human Rights and Democratisation. Seeing vulnerability motivates me to explore concrete actions to overcome social injustice.
You have your own business, GW Consulting; do tell us how you started it up.
I had the idea and to bring it to life, learnt extensively from my former bosses, who mentored me, and obtained the relevant certifications. I faced steep learning curves and it was time-consuming, but entirely worth it.
Who is your inspiration for what you do?
Nelson Mandela. His story inspires me to stay humble, to see past the arbitrary labels of race, religion or language that we place on one another and shows me that we can reinvent ourselves after any hardship. It demonstrates how we can work towards reconciliation—my success as an intercultural facilitator has been shaped by lessons from Mandela’s life.
DILLPREIT KAUR, 36
Why take on social work, amidst all your other commitments?
Volunteering keeps me grounded and humble. There have been times when I’ve questioned whether my efforts are making a difference but also times I’ve been encouraged by my peers and others. Those who have been inspired by us are eager to give back, too. So, consciously or unconsciously, our actions can motivate others.
Please share one of your best experiences from your volunteer work.
The 8th Bahadur Bachey camp stands out for me because I scaled it up with great ambition, but on the last day was overwhelmed by exhaustion and began to break down. However, I met with comfort and encouragement from the parents and my team, so that we finished the camp on a positive note. It highlighted the importance of having a strong support system for volunteers.
Do you have any advice for women who care about making a difference, and who are trying to balance the various roles they play?
Prioritise self-care, build a reliable support network and stay connected to your sense of purpose. This will help you navigate the tough and sometimes lonely parts of your journey. Go with the flow and adapt to what life throws your way; it is often more effective than fighting against the current.
This quote from Maya Angelou: “Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women”— captures how balancing the various roles can be both challenging and empowering. Ultimately, balancing these roles is a continuous process of self-awareness, communicating and adapting.
Tell us about the everyday you and your community alter ego.
I am pursuing my Master’s in Criminology at the University of Melbourne, having graduated in Psychology from YaleNUS College. I lift weights five times a week—strength and fitness are more important than society’s beauty standards! I also started a non-profit organisation with friends to counter “period poverty” and educate Singaporeans about menstrual health.
Society still views periods as somewhat taboo. How did Go With The Flow (GWTF) come about?
One of my team members used to distribute items to families with her Community Club. However, she noticed that menstrual pads were not included as an essential item, despite being a necessary monthly purchase for half the population. It adds to the financial deficit in poorer households. So we started GWTF to bridge access to menstrual healthcare through donations and distribution. We also try to normalise the issue so that there is no more stigma to it.
How does GWTF help?
needing to prove her financial hardship. Kotex and The Period Co are among our sponsors, and we also have donation boxes around Singapore. We repack and deliver pads donated by the public to our beneficiaries. At the same time, we also raise funds and sell our own merchandise to cover our operations. We help between 300 and 600 beneficiaries a month.
How real is period poverty in Singapore?
Sanitary pads are not the first priority on the shopping lists of low-income households. One of our beneficiaries described every month as a battle choosing between a meal and a pack of pads. Some have had to make do with rags or toilet paper, which can actually lead to infections and severe health complications, racking up medical bills. Having a supply of sanitary products provides the dignity of a hygienic menstruation, which many of us take for granted.
What about GWTF’s work with schools?
We realised that many students in secondary schools and tertiary institutions care about alleviating period poverty, so we help them plan their Values-In-Action projects. They may design their own donation boxes; collect, sort and pack donations; or conduct talks at assemblies to raise awareness. Educating youth about period poverty has become another of our goals, now.
You are also the first Indian woman to be awarded the Public Service Commission’s Singapore Police Force (SPF) Scholarship. Tell us more.
A career with the SPF resonates because of the focus on rehabilitating offenders and providing social support to their family members. I have always had the support of my family, friends and teachers; they hold me in high regard and push me to my full potential, with the biggest motivation coming from my mother.
Do you have an empowering message for young women among us?
Be brave, advocate for yourself and take up space. Build both physical and mental strength and resilience—putting yourself out of your comfort zone develops great selfconfidence.
How can women balance the various roles they play—in their careers, in society and in their families? How do you juggle everything?
We work through mutual aid networks and accredited social service organisations and charities to get menstrual products to the people who need them. Individuals can approach us too— our goal is to make these products fully accessible to any woman who needs them, without
It’s a combination of passion and time management. The most important thing is finding purpose in each commitment. I genuinely find joy and purpose in what I do, and seeing tangible change in people’s lives through GWTF motivates me to keep going.
I think women should prioritise their own happiness and growth, and the confidence and joy they get from that will spill over into other aspects of their life.
SHAKTHI MOHAN, 23
Social innovation promotes greater awareness of social issues within the community, which is why SINDA supports initiatives and proposals to benefit key groups in the community.
$25,000 Up to The SINDA Community Impact Fund (SCIF) provides grants to individuals and organisations, whose innovative solutions can bring about beneficial change and generate sustainable social impact in the Indian community
The SINDA Research Fund (SRF) encourages students from the institutes of higher learning, researchers, academics and community practitioners to conduct inter-disciplinary research related to the Singapore Indian Community and provide insights on the needs of the community.
$10,000 Up to
Across a multitude of professions, a diverse community of female Indian thought leaders is emerging and making significant strides.
On 22 June, SINDA’s Let Her Shine! programme gathered many of them at the Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre for the maiden ShineSpire Conference, organised by Indian women for women.
Held in collaboration with 22 leading private and public organisations—encompassing government agencies, the media and those from the healthcare, engineering and finance industries—this event was graced by Ms Indranee Rajah, Minister, Prime Minister’s Office, Second Minister for Finance and National Development and President, SINDA.
The conference, with "Empowered as One" as its guiding theme, welcomed more than 150 women. Despite their varied backgrounds, their strength and unity was something to celebrate, along with the achievements of Indian women. The ladies also affirmed their commitment to supporting and uplifting one another.
Read more about its programmes at https://www.sinda.org.sg/lethershine
It was a day of enriching exposure to contemporary topics. A series of 15 talks and panel discussions covered three pertinent pillars with 25 speakers sharing insights and their expertise. Holistic wellness was one of three pillars of the conference, and it addressed existing gaps in women’s healthcare and well-being. Personal growth and mastery was another; and a third theme was on professional pathway exploration, with an emphasis on STEM fields where women are often under-represented.
This gives a glimpse into the lives of women who have navigated tough situations and conversations at work and in their personal lives. It's an opportunity for our youth to watch, listen, learn, network and grow.
– Pavithra Venkatesan, Speaker ED/Engineer at Tech Onshore MEP Prefabricators
Let Her Shine! was launched in 2022 for the advancement of Indian women in Singapore. SINDA aims to equip Indian women with the knowledge and tools to cultivate a healthy lifestyle and mindset, recognise and protect themselves from vulnerable situations and foster their aspirations and ambitions through education and proactive measures.
DATE MUM
More than just a date on the calendar, Mother’s Day is an opportunity to reflect on the invaluable contributions of mothers and to express our heartfelt appreciation for their unwavering support and love.
This year, the Gardens by the Bay provided the perfect scenic backdrop for such a moment to treasure. During SINDA’s Date with Mum on 5th May 2024, 150 mothers and children gathered for a delightful day out, creating joyous memories with activities underscoring the message that all mums are valued in a child’s life.
"Families are the foundation of our community. The event gave me a chance to bond with my children through fun activities, spending quality time and making lasting memories.
– Rose Juliet, Participant
"Activities were planned around the classic “Five Love Languages” to spotlight different ways of giving and receiving love. Know of them? We should all become familiar with these “languages” of spoken affirmation, quality time, physical touch, acts of service and gifts. This day, families learnt how these languages can profoundly impact relationships with family members.
Indeed, SINDA believes that nurturing families leads to a stronger community and a better future for everyone. Look out for more family-centric events throughout the year!
NOT JUST KICKING ABOUT
You know we are all about developing the next generation, but did you think only that SINDA + Youngsters = Tuition? Oh no, we offer students so much more than an academic edge!
Our programmes—even our tuition programmes!—open up avenues for all-round experiences that help them discover new interests and grow holistically. Over the mid-year break, SINDA hitched onto Euro fever: football gets the kids running, it challenges them and puts them in charge, all while promoting teamwork and inclusivity.
A STEP out of the classroom
Kicking off the June school holidays was the second edition of the STEP Cup, held in collaboration with the Singapore Indian Association. The 5-a-side futsal competition on 25 May hosted 25 boys’ and 10 girls’ teams from 17 STEP Centres from all over Singapore.
It was a stimulating break from their STEP tutorials, as participating in the Cup gave them the chance to exercise their bodies as well as their sportsmanship, and that they love it is in no doubt. Participation has tripled from last year, with 210 pulling on their boots this round.
Self-Help Groups' Joint Football Camp
Football being the sport du jour, a football camp certainly found favour with participants raring to improve their mastery. When our kids aspire to something, we do what we can to help them reach their goals!
On 12 and 13 June, the four Self-Help Groups (SHGs)— the Eurasian Association, Chinese Development Assistance Council, Yayasan MENDAKI and SINDAbrought together 80 primary school children plus special guests from SportCares at the Kick Off! field in Hougang. Many new friendships developed, along with new sports skills and sporting mind-sets. The Self-Help Groups' Joint Football Camp went beyond promoting sports and healthy living; it brought together children from diverse communities, fostering meaningful connections and strengthening social unity.
YOUTH IN ACTION
Tree Planting with Me Too! Club
SINDA Youth Club (SYC) members teamed up with MINDS’ Me Too! Club (MTC) to show how volunteerism is a terrific means of social integration. On 13 March, our SINDA youth befriended some wonderful persons with intellectual disabilities (PWIDs) from MTC who had volunteered to green our nation.
As part of NParks’ One Million Trees Movement, the group headed to Pasir Ris Drive 1 where 70 saplings were waiting to put down roots. The event marked a milestone for MTC—its 100th member—and later, a big birthday bash for the March babies among the MTC members added to the celebrations. SYC volunteers again had a part to play: they helped to play! This day, our youths learned how joyous an inclusive society can be.
SINDA Youth Leaders Seminar 2024
The 12th SINDA Youth Leaders Seminar (SYLS) returned with 80 participants and 40 volunteers at its flagship 3-day residential camp, held from 14-16 June at the National University of Singapore.
Indian youths from various walks of life relished this opportunity to collaborate and broaden their minds. Through a mix of eye-opening activities, they learnt more about themselves and also uncovered challenges and pain points faced by the community. The camp culminated in the pivotal “Echoes of Insight” segment, when groups made presentations addressing the various issues.
All in, it was another successful instalment, cultivating civic-mindedness and developing purposeful and visionary leadership in the youths.
Serving Seniors
SYC volunteers from the ITE Leadership Programme (ITELP) reached across generational gaps, spending time with the residents of the Red Cross Home for the Disabled on 27 April.
Our volunteers engaged the residents over games and lunch, and got to understand the weighty role of caregivers. The youths were also motivated to better support and advocate for the silver generation in our rapidly-aging country.
GROWN UP BUT STILL GROWING
When you have come along so far in your academic journey, there comes a stage of transitioning to working and family life. It is exciting, if not stressful! While the unique complexities of starting out are often bypassed by other youth-centric initiatives, SINDA’s Young Adults Community (YAC) has your back.
Run by SINDA Youth Club (SYC) in partnership with national platforms such as the National Youth Council and The Social Development Network, YAC caters to the 25-35 age group. Whether it is picking up new knowledge for personal growth, gaining ground in your career progression or learning to develop family values as you create a home, topics and events are all carefully curated to meet your needs. Not least, you will find a supportive community that you can turn to as you navigate adulthood.
Taking Flight 2.0
YAC’s Taking Flight conference returned for a second year on 8 July with young professionals exploring international careers or different industries.
Two panel sessions had nine industry leaders sharing advice and first-hand accounts of working overseas, providing well-rounded perspectives and clear insights into the opportunities and challenges involved.
There was also the popular World Café session. This facilitated in-depth discussions on thriving in today’s competitive job market, including what experiences our youth can gain from choosing to work overseas.
Taking Flight 2.0 proved to be a constructive event filled with inspiration and networking opportunities. The young adults found fellowship with like-minded peers and industry mentors and plenty to consider.
The event was held at NTUC Centre 1, in collaboration with the Singapore Global Network and the Singapore Leaders Network.
Look out for approaching engagements by the YAC. You will be empowered to not just handle whatever comes next, but also to contribute positively to your communities.
EMPOWERING A CARING AND INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY
Community Chest has been uniting the community to mobilise resources and raise funds to serve those in need since 1983. Today, it supports more than 200 critical social service programmes, impacting more than 93,000 individuals.
1
Purpose
to rally sustainable philanthropy among corporate and community partners, so that the social service sector can serve those in need, now and in the future.
100%
40 Years of Service and Partnership
with the people, private and public sectors to create a collaborative and impactful social service ecosystem. of your Donations
goes towards helping those in need, as our fundraising and operating costs are covered mainly by Tote Board.
Over
5
Causes
to ensure that all groups of the community are cared for, including children with special needs and youth-at-risk, adults with disabilities, persons with mental health conditions and seniors and families in need of support.
200 Critical Social Service Programmes
are o ered to those in need, including special education, youth programmes, adult disability support, counselling services, eldercare and caregiver support.
Empowerment Made Possible by You with SHARE
SHARE is the hassle-free regular giving programme of Community Chest. It empowers communities in need in Singapore to live with dignity in a caring and inclusive society. The programme serves as a reliable and sustained source of funds to run many critical social service programmes that require regular support. Join us in making a lasting impact on lives and building a caring, supportive community.
For more information, please email us at ncss_comchest@ncss.gov.sg
Quiz-O-Mania
VISION
To build a strong and vibrant Singaporean Indian community together
MISSION
To build a well-educated, resilient and confident community of Indians that stands together with the other communities in contributing to the progress of multi-racial Singapore
VALUES
Respect, our culture Integrity, our foundation Service, our promise Excellence, our pursuit
Read everything in the September 2024 issue of SINDA Connections without skipping a page? Let’s see how well you know its contents!
This contest is open only to primary and secondary school students, who are Singaporeans or Permanent Residents. Three correct entries will win $50 worth of vouchers each. Scan the QR code or visit www.sinda.org.sg/Quiz-O-Mania and complete the quiz by 30th October 2024. Winning correct entries will be picked in a draw and the judges’ decision is final.
Winners will be contacted by SINDA to collect their prize and their names will be published in the next issue of SINDA Connections.
Congratulations to the winners of the previous contest!
Lukeshaan Nambiar, Anderson Primary School
Chandramathi D/O Janamani, Serangoon Garden Secondary School
Shahmina Abdul Raheem, Bendemeer Secondary School
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Patron
Mr Lee Hsien Loong
Chairman
Mr K Shanmugam
Life Trustees
Mr K Shanmugam
Prof S Jayakumar
Mr S Dhanabalan
Mr S Chandra Das
Mr J Y Pillay
Mr Sat Pal Khattar
Dr N Varaprasad
Term Trustees
Ms Indranee Rajah
Mr Ravi Menon
Mr Girija Pande
Mr Gautam Banerjee
Justice Judith Prakash
Mr K Kesavapany
Mr Shabbir Hassanbhai
Mr Timothy Chia
Mr Piyush Gupta
Dr Sudha Nair
Mr Harjit Singh Bhatia
Mr K V Rao
Mr Ashok Kumar Mirpuri
Advisors
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan
Mr Vikram Nair
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
President
Ms Indranee Rajah
Vice Presidents
Mr Sarjit Singh
Mr Murali Pillai
Secretary
Mr Siraj Omar
Treasurer
Mr G Arull
EXCO Members
Mrs Rathi Parimalan
Ms Praveen Randhawa
Ms Carmelia Nathen
Mr Rajakanth Raman
Prof Vineeta Sinha
Mr Dinesh Vasu Dash
Mr R Raghunathan
Dr Hamid Razak
Mr G Segar
Mathu Rupini D/O Kumar
Mathu Rupini D/O Kumar, 28, has come far from her initial days in ITE. Completing her Higher Nitec in Hospitality Operations and attaining a Diploma in Mass Media Management, Mathu today has a bachelor’s in Business Management under her belt and is working as a marketer with Maker Lab. Joining SINDA’s ITEnable as a Lead Peer Mentor and SYC sub-committee member, she tells other youths to take advantage of the resources available to better themselves and find opportunities to give back to the community.
My first interaction with SINDA was back in primary school when I took Maths tuition. Now that I’m in the workforce, I have found myself back with SINDA, this time as a Lead Peer Mentor with SINDA’s ITEnable programme, which works towards mentoring and motivation for students.
My role is focused on equipping the next generation of leaders, guiding the current ITE peer mentors to develop critical skills like leadership, communication and presentation. I also lead the development of the ITEnable newsletter. Last year, I got the chance to join the SINDA Youth Club sub-committee as well—contributing my voice to SINDA’s programmes and seeing first-hand how SINDA operates holistically. It has also provided me with the opportunity to support different causes, through Youth Giving and the SINDA Youth Leadership Seminar (SYLS), for example.
The two years I have been a SINDA volunteer have been memorable. I really love working with the ITE students. Seeing them grow and give back to the community warms my heart.
Programmes for youths, such as the initiatives by SINDA, are so important. And there is an abundance of opportunity for youths to grow critical skills and develop leadership, through ITEnable, SYLS and more. Take my peer mentor group—all of them are so talented and have had opportunities to represent their school and SINDA in various initiatives around the community. My assistant peer mentor, Barani, was recently interviewed by Thalam Indian Beat following his sharing at the recent ITE Youth Dialogue, giving his story great exposure.
Personally, my experience with SINDA has helped me become a better leader and mentor. It has helped me in my professional life and also in my communication with my loved ones.
I am thankful to SINDA for this space to grow and better myself, and I strongly encourage youths to sign up as well (after all the resources are free)!
SINDA’s Per Capita Income (PCI) criteria has been increased to If you or anyone you know requires additional support, please
$1,600
