SINDA Connections - March 2023

Dear Friends of SINDA

With 2023 firmly upon us, I look back on the year that has passed, with gratitude. We launched new programmes and gained new ground in our efforts to reach out to an even larger community than before.

There were several milestone moments in 2022. We identified and supported 7,500 Indian students through our annual Back To School Festival (BTSF), from 4,200 students in 2021 – an almost 80% increase! This was the largest ever batch of students supported through the BTSF, and this engagement has opened up more avenues for us to help not just the students but also their families. We’re very heartened that we could extend a hand to more of those in need.

Another milestone moment was the SINDA Excellence Awards 2022, where 782 recipients – the largest cohort of Indian students – were lauded for their exceptional achievements in academics, sports and the arts. More of our Indian students are excelling in their respective fields, thanks to our collective efforts, and we remain proud of our young ones who are blossoming into bright, young individuals charting the path ahead.

We also introduced new initiatives, such as Let Her Shine!, focused on empowering women. As a community, we can play greater roles to ensure that women realise their aspirations and potential, and allow them to shine as exemplary individuals inspiring all of us. Such aspirational programmes deepen SINDA’s list of programmes, ensuring that our work is not only focused on helping those in need, but also supports the wider community in reaching even greater heights.

In 2022, SINDA’s work for our community was recognised by two awards. The Advocates of Second Chances Award at the Yellow Ribbon Awards underscores SINDA’s efforts in helping those formerly incarcerated to reintegrate into society, while supporting their families through financial and social support. We also received the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth’s Charity Transparency Award, which recognises SINDA’s good governance practices. This validates our efforts in managing the community’s monetary contributions towards uplifting families and individuals. Receiving these two awards reinforces our determination to improve, and encourages our efforts to strengthen the community for the coming years.

This year, SINDA has big plans, as we anticipate reaching out to as many people as possible. We are extending support to more segments in our community, including the elderly. We are also ramping up our programmes to benefit more young ones, with an additional $1.5 million channelled into expanding our education, children and youth development programmes.

Such efforts buoy SINDA’s mission of ensuring that no one in our community slips through the gaps as the landscape evolves. As we extend our endeavours, we ask that you join us on this journey to help those who are in need. Be it as a partner, volunteer or in any other capacity, we welcome you to join us in our work for community betterment.

2023 promises to be a bright year, with many exciting new programmes for our community. I look forward to meeting you along the way, in our shared journey of continued progress.

Anbarasu Rajendran CEO, SINDA

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Looking Back

SINDA’s Award-Winning Ways

November last year saw SINDA pick up two new accolades, acknowledgements of how we have been conducting our affairs with purpose and integrity.

The Charity Transparency Award (CTA)

The Indian community has been generous with its monetary contributions, and these go a long way towards uplifting families and individuals. Receiving the CTA from the Charity Council reinforces our commitment to serving the community well, says Mr Anbarasu Rajendran, SINDA CEO. SINDA was among 45 charities receiving the prestigious award for the first time. That we passed the rigorous assessment validates our work—SINDA will continue to improve and refine our processes in pursuit of charity excellence and to further the trust placed in us.

Yellow Ribbon Award

Also for the first time, SINDA has been accorded the Advocates of Second Chances Award. This award, jointly bestowed by the Singapore Prison Service (SPS) and Yellow Ribbon Singapore, pays tribute to those who champion the rehabilitation journeys of inmates and ex-offenders.

Since 2016, SINDA has worked with SPS to offer inmates and their families social and financial assistance. Today, we have the very successful SINDA-SPS Reintegration Programme supporting Indian families with young children, as family remains very much the centre of our focus.

Mr Anbarasu, who has served as a YRSG Reintegration Committee Board Member since 2019, notes that Singapore is a society of opportunities and such second chances reinforce our nation’s values.

After two years under pandemic restrictions, the Joint Tuition Awards (JTA) Ceremony was back in a distinctly celebratory mood. It was held on 20 August at Nanyang Polytechnic for some 786 awardees and their families.

Since 2004, the JTA has saluted students for their academic progress. Hailing from all races, these are pupils of the Collaborative Tuition Programme (CTP) run by the four SelfHelp Groups.

At the 2022 JTA, students from SINDA bagged a total of 227 awards across the PSLE, N- and O-Level categories. Among them was Emmeline Tanya V, 18, who cinched the Best Overall Student prize in the GCE N(T)-Level category. The event was graced by Guest-of-Honour Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman, Minister, Prime Minister’s Office, Second Minister for Education & Second Minister for Foreign Affairs.

Let Her Shine!

2023 will surely be bright for the 341 young women who joined our Let Her Shine! developmental workshops held in the last quarter of last year.

From grooming tips and how to dress for success to learning journeys, the nine workshops ran the gamut of confidencebuilding activities. The ladies learnt about health; they discussed wealth. They were inspired to explore STEMrelated careers, getting creative with 3D printing and touring a biological sciences laboratory. Not least, they developed a growth mindset and healthier self-esteem, all the better for these young women to seize the opportunities of the future!

Joint Tuition Awards “Live” Once More

Engaged Parents, Eager Children through SINDA s Family Programmes

Parenting can be exhilarating! Even if every family is different.

SINDA’s Family Programmes are designed to help any family thrive. From support packages for the disadvantaged to crash courses on navigating parenthood to long-term programmes empowering women, we help the grown-ups grow stable and loving families. We help the little ones grow up, too, with courses and activities that spark creativity, inspire learning and rouse aspirations.

Shamala is a single mother who was struggling to juggle her responsibilities, but found a way forward with SINDA’s help. As a Project Athena participant since 2018, she has grown stronger and gained the tools to weather any storm, all while having a safe space to turn to whenever she needs to take a break. Shamala destresses by catching with other mothers in the programme.

Critically, the programme’s myriad activities have allowed her to forge stronger ties with her children, especially her 11-year-old twin boys, Lohendra and Lukesh, who look forward to Project Athena’s weekly swimming classes. The duo also benefit from academic support with STEP and have been recipients of the Back To School vouchers for the past three years, with which they can pick out their favourite school supplies. As finances can be stretched, the vouchers afford some flexibility for the family, taking care of the twins’ school needs so that Shamala can focus on her eldest son and youngest daughter. SINDA’s help has also extended to her eldest son. As a beneficiary of the SINDA-SIET Tertiary Bursary, he can stay motivated and work towards his dream of becoming a teacher.

Shamala Masilamany, 43

“SINDA has helped my family in many ways. For this, I am truly grateful. I now have a strong bond with my children and with all the knowledge and skills gained, I am a stronger and more confident mother.”

Get to know our family programmes with this quick introduction, and see if you can find one for your family!

The Literacy and Numeracy (LYNN) Programme

LYNN engages 3-to-6-year-olds through interactive learning, encouraging out-of-box thinking and spontaneous learning through play. The emphasis on reading, writing and numeracy ensures the little ones are ready for school.

Enrichment Workshops

We bring out your child’s creative potential! Kids are equipped with the vocabulary and skills to express themselves and explore different emotions safely, while being empowered to work towards their goals.

Hello Baby/Hello Toddler

Gift Bundles

Babies and toddlers get a warm welcome into family life with SINDA’s gift bundles. Ageappropriate toys and storybooks capture the imagination and build bonds between parents and the wee ones.

Parenting Workshops

Discover how to strengthen your bond with your children and support them during their significant growth stages.

SINDA helps children develop in a holistic way, whether it is preparing them for the next stage of education, cultivating a lifelong interest in learning or expanding their horizons beyond school walls.

Holiday Enrichment Camps

An affirmative experience that builds resilience and confidence, these camps provide not just the fun requisite for the holidays but also learning opportunities. Children recognise the value of pushing through and overcoming difficulties and are encouraged to aspire to succeed.

programmes programmes

Discover how playing a bigger role in your children’s lives makes a difference! Our programmes guide you in raising confident children and nurturing them at every stage.

Project Athena

Single mums and their children can tap this support network to discover in themselves the confident, independent, self-sufficient and resilient individuals within! Empowered mums and vibrant kids are the hallmark of this programme.

Family Bonding Activities

We believe that a family that plays together stays together, so we’ve arranged for exciting things you can do as a unit throughout the year.

Basic Coding Workshops

Born into a world of technology, new generations of digital natives are given a head-start in coding concepts. Structured thinking and creativity are integral skills they will pick up even before encountering advanced maths and science in school!

Robotics Workshops

Participants experience the thrill of making models come alive with movement and sound, using the taught sequential programming skills.

Starter Series

Being prepared is key to a great start. Find out how you can help your child prepare for the next stage in their education — pre-school, Primary 1, Secondary 1 or Tertiary-level. Find out how to ease the transition for your child and support their social and emotional well-being.

SINDA inspires young Indian women to reach for their dreams! Through a series of programmes, SINDA equips young Indian women with the skills and resources to grow into strong and confident ladies who are more than capable of reaching great heights.

Bookmark our programmes on www.sinda.org.sg/family and bring the family together this year!

Stuck in your Studies? Tap on SINDA s education Programmes!

If you’re tired from tackling that tough topic at school, it might be time to try one of our tutorials. Think tips and tools, structure and strategies that strengthen your academic performance. Our programmes are stimulating, not stressful (thank us later) and will stretch you to your fullest potential. Be assured, no matter how tangled your circumstances, you can get your studies straightened out! We believe in you!

SINDA Tutorials for Enhanced Performance (STEP)

Our flagship tuition programme welcomes primary, secondary and A-Level students, providing academic help, together with holistic after-school support.

Teach Programme

Conveniently sited in schools as an after-school programme, Teach offers intensive primary and secondary level coaching in small group sessions.

Guide

Homework help is at hand in this community and home-based programme for primary and secondary students. Strengthen your understanding of concepts and close those learning gaps.

Intrigued? Find out more at www.sinda.org.sg/education

Landmark Programme

Face the national Mathematics and Science examinations—at the PSLE, GCE N(A)-Levels and GCE O-Levels—with confidence, with this punchy preparatory programme.

Café Excel

Don’t bother trying to find a table at a café for your revision—find the perfect conducive environment at a Café Excel study venue near you.

Scholarships and Study Awards

SINDA offers a wide variety of scholarship schemes for those pursuing a higher education. Offered in collaboration with donors, established educational institutions and organisations, scholarships bring you a step closer to reaching your goals.

Aside from offering tutorial programmes, we value the holistic development of our students. Through the Equal Opportunity Fund (EOF), we provide opportunities for deserving students to press ahead with their passions and interests! Students who are interested in the fields of the arts, music or sports can receive funding through the EOF to pursue and develop new skills and passions.

As avid Taekwondo fans, 12-year-olds Lashell and Leshawn were eager to pick up the sport. Beneficiaries of SINDA’s Teach programme and Back To School vouchers. However, with four school-going children in their family, for whom finances were stretched. To provide the siblings with the resources to pursue their passion, SINDA additionally supported them through the EOF, enabling them to kick-start their Taekwondo journey and hone their diverse capabilities.

“We are happy that we are able to learn Taekwondo, something we have been wanting to do. Our lessons have been very fun and we are grateful that we can pursue our passion. We look forward to joining SINDA’s youth-related programmes and initiatives in the future”

Lashell Nishan Pillai and Leshawn Nishan Pillai, both 12 years old

More recipients than ever at the SINDA EXcellence Awards 2022

The SINDA Excellence Awards (SEA) swung back with a bigger-thanever ceremony on 24 September 2022, hosting 1,200 guests at Nanyang Polytechnic.

These awards are the highest honours we present to Indian students who have achieved excellence in academics, the arts or sports. The 16 categories represent the diverse opportunities available to students in Singapore, and the exceptional achievements of our students signal the community’s progress.

Indeed, more Singaporean Indian students have been advancing to post-secondary education pathways in the past few years. The day’s Guest-of-Honour, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Mr Lawrence Wong, revealed that this proportion now stands at 95%, compared to less than 80% 20 years ago. In the realms of the arts and sports, too, youths have chalked up successes on both local and international platforms, giving the entire community every reason to be proud.

While recognising the pursuit of excellence is never easy, DPM Wong stressed that there are “no alternatives to hard work, practice, and the discipline of getting things done”, and hoped the award recipients would affirm that “this is in fact a better way of living than to settle for mediocrity.”

2022 SEA Valedictorian Ms Surabhi Malani would concur. The Nanyang Technological University graduate holds a double degree and is an active volunteer. She was also listed among 18 Girls in Tech in 2021’s Singapore 100 Women in Tech. Passionate about empowering women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), Surabhi believes the first step to bridging the gender gap in these industries is creating a strong community that motivates and inspires its members.

SINDA stands with young stars like Surabhi. We work to ensure our youths receive not just educational support but meaningful opportunities to contribute towards nation building as well. Look out for news on the Forward Singapore conversations happening nationwide—a chance for us to come together to refresh and update our social compact, and so shape the future of Singapore.

SEA 2022 Fun Facts

• Winners in the Special Mention of Outstanding Achievements category include podium-takers at the 31st SEA Games in Vietnam, as well as a President’s Scholar

• SEA 2022 marks 3 decades since the first Awards in 1992, which had only a handful of recipients!

• A sizeable number of recipients are from SINDA programmes These include those who have benefitted from education, youth, family and financial assistance.

• The award comes with a cash prize of between $150 and $500, depending on the award category.

Up and up!

This has been the biggest cohort of award winners in the history of the ceremony. The 782 recipients mark a 7% increase from 2021. This continues the upward trajectory since 2019!

The number of students qualifying for the awards significantly increased in 2022:

GCE O-Levels

34% increase from 2021

GCE A-Levels

19% increase from 2021

IB (Local and International)

75% increase from 2021

ITE Higher NITEC

29% increase from 2021

Local University Degrees

25% increase from 2021

A big boost at btsf 2022

accessible to students; it sees, too, the introduction of Café Excel, providing conducive environments at 10 community venues for students to do their homework.

A further half-million dollars will be put to expanding early childhood programmes such as LYNN, and to strengthening programmes for our youths and enabling their aspirations. Our young people will have opportunities for overseas training, learning journeys and mentorships, giving them greater exposure to the world we live in.

The annual Back To School Festival (BTSF) last year was the biggest it has ever been. The largest cohort yet, of over 7,500 students, was an almost 80% increase over the previous batch. With the annual distribution of school necessities, SINDA welcomed an additional 3,300 Indian students into our fold, having been introduced through our community partners, schools and grassroots bodies.

Ever thankful for the continuous support, Mr Anbarasu Rajendran, CEO, SINDA said “This year, we are grateful for the new partnerships we have forged that have allowed us to reach out to a large group of students who did not have the support of SINDA before. As we work with our partners to identify more students and families, we will continue to support our students in their journey to academic excellence.”

Since 2008, SINDA has been happy to help families start the school year on a good footing, easing their financial burden with $140 worth of stationery vouchers from Popular Bookstore and $60 shoe vouchers from Bata. BTSF 2022 kicked off on 12 November, following which students under the scheme could collect their kits at various venues over nine days in November and December.

Ms Indranee Rajah, Minister, Prime Minister’s Office, Second Minister for Finance and National Development and President, SINDA, assured recipients at the BTSF launch of SINDA’s continued support as they continue their education.

In a warm address especially welcoming of those new to SINDA, Ms Indranee also announced new investments. An extra $1 million is being used this year to bolster our education programmes. This will see the STEP tutorial programme extended to more centres, making it more

17-year-old Venkatesan Bharathi Kannan from TampinesMeridian Junior College, for one, is very excited about the chance to not only buoy his studies but also boost his personal development. Having benefitted from SINDA programmes—such as BTSF and the Young Leaders’ Programme—over several years, he is now looking forward to broadening his horizons. As Ms Indranee noted, “we all work together to create a shared future, where every Singaporean thrives and achieves success.”

SINGLE-MINDED ABOUT PUBLIC SERVICE

SINDA Volunteer G Solai Valli, 18, is just the second Indian girl to receive a President’s Scholarship; she is also a Singapore Armed Forces Scholar. What drives this publicspirited youth, who is now pursuing a degree in International Relations and Organisations at Leiden University in the Netherlands? Solai shares her mind with us.

You’ve done exceptionally well in your academic journey. Does it take a special kind of focus or mind-set?

I was actually an average student in school; but while I placed importance on my studies, I also made sure to develop myself holistically. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone, to get involved in school events and explore new opportunities. Through these, I got to learn more about my strengths and weaknesses, and developed my interpersonal and leadership skills. Academically, I did my best to stay consistent throughout the school year and have a genuine interest in the subjects I was learning.

Were there ever struggles?

I had my downturns but I picked myself up and worked even harder. I adopted a positive mindset, believing things will work out in the end. Learning is not always linear, so I tried to learn from my mistakes and move on, instead of dwelling on them. Grades and scores are just one part of the education process.

I learnt a lot from interacting with other students and individuals. I also had teachers and coaches who believed in me and went the extra mile to support me in my endeavours.

You also excelled in your CCA—helping your softball team clinch third place at the National School Games B Division in secondary school, and captaining the school team in JC. How difficult was it to juggle all that?

By understanding my time, interests and commitments, I was able to prioritise activities and manage them efficiently. Additionally, softball was a way to de-stress and have fun with my friends! Approaching school and CCA with enthusiasm meant that even during difficult times, I was happy to challenge myself and keep working hard at both.

Having participated in a MINDEF Experience Programme while in JC, you were inspired to join the Army. Now you are both an SAF Scholar and a President’s Scholar. How does it feel to embark on a path towards public service?

I’ve been interested in joining the public service since I was young. I am incredibly grateful and honoured to receive the scholarships, and it provides me with inspiration to push further and strive for more. I have decided to pursue political science as it allows me to follow my interests while still gaining a good academic foundation in diverse subjects such as governance, economics, diplomacy and international relations.

Growing up, I was grateful for the opportunities I enjoyed as a student in Singapore. I knew that I was able to live in a peaceful, vibrant community because of the foundation laid by the public service, and I hoped to have the opportunity to do the same for future generations. The community support I received reinforced my decision to join the public service and give back to society.

I also wanted to work in a challenging environment, to always push myself and excel, while doing meaningful work. I hope to develop myself as leader so that I can make a difference.

Solai (in red) volunteering at SINDA’s Celebrate! Festive Gift Pack distribution exercises.

You’ve already made a difference as a volunteer—as a SINDA youth mentor. What got you going?

I started volunteering with SINDA when I was in secondary school, joining my mother. From all her stories, I knew my mother had had good experiences and enjoyed volunteering with SINDA, so I was curious to try it myself.

I initially volunteered as a break from my studies, for something to do during the weekends. Along the way, I learnt more about my community, met new people and contributed to society, all of which I savoured.

My first volunteer stint was helping out with Code for Kids. It was an experience that will always stick with me, as I had a great time interacting with the children. I have also participated in SINDA’s door-knocking exercises and GAME football programme. I am happy to have had the opportunity to volunteer with both programmes, to interact with beneficiaries and participants.

How has volunteering shaped your attitude and outlook on life?

Volunteering with SINDA has strengthened my motivation to work with my community and nation. Meeting Singaporeans from different backgrounds, hearing their stories and interacting with them, spurs me to pursue my aspiration, to work in public service.

I would encourage other youths to try it. Volunteering is a great way to take a step back from school and give back to society. It can be in any form, and it is a great way to meet new people and learn new skills. While it might seem like an additional commitment, it is a precious opportunity to make a difference.

You are an inspiration to Indian youth, especially girls, in our community. What would you like to tell them?

Don’t be afraid of adversity. There might be challenges along the way, but follow your dreams and continue to work with purpose and determination.

Solai (extreme right) as a peer mentor as part of the GAME Football programme.

PROJECT GIVE Booth brightens deepavali

Every year in the run-up to Deepavali, the Indian community looks forward to the buzz around SINDA’s flagship event, Project Give. It brings out the caring and sharing spirit among us and is pretty good fun to boot.

While the safe management measures over the previous two years failed to dampen the altruism of donors, we certainly missed the convivial air of Little India, and our popular Project Give booth in the midst of it. Since 2001, we have been making sure the less-privileged families in our community get to enjoy the festive period. From a simple fundraising drive, Project Give has transformed into a broader campaign that engages every segment of our society. It brings awareness of our community initiatives, encourages the spirit of giving and strengthens community bonds.

Last year, the annual month-long outreach in the district was back with a bang, having new activities in its roster of events. Needless to say, we were heartened to be able to host Project Give physically again!

Project Give launched with a run and a roar

Who better to lead the charge up to the launch of the monthlong campaign than the Thaarumaaru Runners, long-time supporters of the community, along with some of our own SINDA representatives? The running group’s member Richard Morgan Samuel said, “It gives us a sense of satisfaction to be part of this meaningful initiative that helps students from low-income families.”

The Runners sallied through the 1.5km from SINDA HQ to Campbell Lane on 17 September 2022, and they were not unaccompanied. Riders Aid, which organises charity rides, roared along on 30 motorbikes to help roll out the campaign. Riders Aid President and founder, Mr Suriya Kumar, described how bikers from all walks of life and of all races had come together to join the ride.

Meanwhile, at the Project Give booth, SINDA’s children beneficiaries were waiting with barely-contained excitement. In a symbolic gesture, the runners and riders ceremoniously handed over the Project Give flag to them, signifying the various collaborative community efforts at play to support the younger generation.

Having a blast at the Project Give booth

The return of our signature booth was met with great enthusiasm. Hosted for five weeks by the Indian Heritage Centre and the Little India Shopkeepers & Heritage Association, it attracted much traffic with its traditional games, craft-making and cultural activities. With a strong belief in a community-for-community approach, 29 community partners and 50 volunteers came forward as ambassadors of SINDA, to conduct the booth activities and engage members of the public who visited the booth. Adding vibrancy to Deepavali celebrations was just one aspect of the booth—it also raised awareness around various community themes.

Packing a party in a Celebrate! Festive Gift Pack

Making sure families have the means to celebrate festive occasions, SINDA has always spread cheer with a festive gift pack under our Celebrate! initiative. In 2022, some 1,200 low-income families celebrating Deepavali received snacks, groceries and a $120 grocery voucher from our partners and volunteers.

Among those involved was undergraduate Aditi Chattopadhyay, an international student who helped put the gift packs together. “As I am unable to celebrate Deepavali with my parents and family, I am grateful for this opportunity to bring joy to other families,” she said cheerfully.

Grab Singapore was one of our partners in the distribution exercise, helping to deliver more than 600 of the festive packs island-wide on 1 October 2022. Managing Director Mr Yee Wee Tang declared it an honour to bring the community together. His driver-partners in Grab who offered their strong support numbered 50, among whom was Mr Peh Hock Chuan, who said he was glad to give a helping hand. “We are just playing a small part to deliver these goodies so that those in need can have a joyous Deepavali,” he said.

Going down memory lane

On 8 October, seniors living alone had the chance to relive the old days in Little India, in the sunny company of SINDA youth volunteers. Over trishaw rides and festive meals, the young and not-so-young bonded and had a wonderful evening.

Thanking our donors

8 October was also the date when 25 of our donors came forward to donate at the annual Donor Cheque Presentation Ceremony.

It was a congenial, gracious evening, with donors sharing their aspirations for the community and beneficiaries sharing their inspirational stories and gratitude. SINDA President Ms Indranee Rajah, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister for Finance and National Development, expressed her thanks to the many generous patrons on behalf of SINDA and our beneficiaries.

empowering youth leaders at itelp

of leadership and service to others.

It is an enabling journey, as those who come through it attest. Here is what the 2022 cohort experienced:

Youth Empowerment

A key element of the ITELP is teaching the youths about self, team and community leadership. Our participants engaged in capacity building with skills like design thinking and public speaking, and bonded by dragon boating in the Kallang River.

In September, their new competencies were put into practice at a three-day-two-night residential camp. Here, they faced a high-elements team building activity and tackled a hackathon on issues faced by ITE students today.

Community Engagement

“Acts of Kindness” were the focus of this phase. In October this involved the students volunteering at the Project Give Booth at the Indian Heritage Centre. They were a hit with visitors, who joined them in rangoli colouring, lamp painting and a question-and-answer game about Deepavali and Indian culture.

Then on 12 November, participants and mentors alike took to the streets to engage other Singaporeans in acts of kindness. Travelling to locations such as Somerset, Dhoby Ghaut and Little India, they encouraged members of the public to write a kind note and pass it forward. A total of 170 letters were distributed in this manner.

Graduation

The ITELP culminated in a graduation ceremony on 26 November. It was a chance for the youths to showcase what they had learnt before their peers, parents and guests. The young leaders also got to engage with the Guest-of-Honour Mr Sarjit Singh, Vice-President of SINDA and SYC Advisor, and Special Guest Mr Suresh Natarajan, Principal of ITE College Central, in a panel discussion on prevailing youth concerns.

Newly-minted ITELP leader A. Parvatha Dhaarani was excited at the opportunity to address her peers and the audience, and encouraged them to undertake volunteer work and give back to society. She shared, “I have always had trouble with speaking in front of a crowd, but the programme has allowed me to find my voice… it has been a great boost to my selfesteem.” Dhaarani is looking forward to flourishing more under the SYC.

The ITE Leadership Programme (ITELP) is SINDA Youth Club (SYC)’s flagship programme bringing together likeminded Indian ITE youth. Running over the five months from July to November, it takes participants through the roles

Inspired to Think Positive and Think Big

It was a chance for the students to interact with professionals in the corporate world, gaining from them an understanding of what it takes to have a good career. Both sides found the encounters gratifying, as they discussed diverse topics from innovation to sustainability.

Mr Gautam Bannerjee, Chairman of the IBR, was glad to have met with these “bright, young minds”, he said. “I saw firsthand the development of these students, who were able to ask questions and seek knowledge that they would normally not have access to.”

It’s not easy to look up or look far ahead when you’ve got to keep your nose to the grindstone, but last year 32 ITE students learnt to have a vision to strive for.

These are Indian youths in SINDA’s ITEnable programme that runs in all three ITE colleges. Over the year they attended various activities, both enriching and enjoyable; engaged with peers and the community; and built their confidence and resilience.

In 2022 a Corporate Mentoring component was introduced, supported and guided by the Indian Business-leaders’ Roundtable (IBR). Four well-known companies—National Computer Systems, PwC Singapore, Tata Consultancy Services and Singtel—welcomed the students into their offices over four Saturdays in August and September, in the maiden round.

The mentorship also gave the youths insights into enhancing personal and professional competencies, as they prepare to enter the workforce. ITE East student Tharshini, 18, took away many lessons from the experience. After her visit to Singtel, she related, “I learned that one should work more on one’s strengths. When you concentrate on your strengths, you automatically start working better on countering your weaknesses.”

Indeed, one of the aims of the programme is for the students to build enthusiasm for continuous improvement, as well as positive mind-sets and habits. Getting such industry exposure through direct mentorship from the professionals helps to break down the mental barriers to success.

Mr Bannerjee is confident of the programme’s benefit for the participants. As for Tharshini and her peers, they are motivated to reach for their goals, and preparing for future leadership opportunities.

SCENE IN SEPTEMBER

Students all over Singapore seized the chance to soak up some fun before the looming year-end exams. How many excursions could SINDA squeeze into the one-week holiday? Stacks!

Race to Ransack Little India

From Little India Arcade to the Indian Heritage Centre, some 20 tweens zipped across six different locations, searching for clues and solving puzzles, in a race to open a treasure box at the end. The team-based friendly competition was definitely a holiday highlight.

Swinging into Action at the Civil Defence Heritage Gallery

Ready in an emergency? These primary school-age kids certainly are! A trip to the Hill Street Central Fire Station let them try out life-saving skills and see how our Civil Defence heroes fight fires and conduct rescues.

Getting Dressed for Success

Clues and cues to ace interviews are what 18 young ladies, aged 16 to 30, got at a workshop by the Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations (SCWO). Communication, grooming and presentation skills all got a special polish for that winning poise.

Art Attack!

16 youths found freedom to express themselves as they picked up their brushes to colour their world. For a couple of hours at the SINDA Youth Hub, they put to use new-learnt knowledge about various elements of art, creating their personal masterpieces.

GAME to Host a Gig

Who’s got the gift of the gab to charm the socks off the audience? Thirty youths attended the Guidance and Mentorship Programme (GAME) Emcee workshop, with a confident and eloquent 13-year-old Vikasini taking 1st place.

Vikasini, together with her fellow participants, Jairevanth and Nikhita went on to host the SINDA Youth Awards in November. The three youths put the skills they gained to great use as they emceed the event with aplomb.

Crafting Leather Together

With what great pride 13 teens all tried their hands at stitching hide! They did good jobs making their own pouches and fobs and sewed up the day most satisfied.

Having a Splash at Sentosa’s HydroDash

Mohammad Rayyan called it “a blast” to climb, slide and bounce through Singapore’s first floating aqua park. He joined 45 other 13-to-21-year-olds from SINDA for a wild Wednesday, trying to find the fastest and most creative ways to tackle the wacky floating obstacle course.

High Hourglass

It’s hard enough to climb a 24-metre tall hourglass-shaped tower while strung together with your team-mates, but to have to overcome a series of obstacles at every level of the way takes the challenge up a few notches. Good thing special guest Dr Saravana Pillai, who scaled Mount Everest, was there to inspire the 20 SINDA youths on!

Read everything in the March 2023 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 30 April 2023. 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!

1) Suurya Moorthi ACS Independent

2) Hemang Dubey Presbyterian High School

3) Shivashangari D/O Ganeson Fernvale Primary School

Join us for a meaningful career

Inclusive environment

Work in an inclusive and positive work environment, which recognises diversity and encourages people to share di erent perspectives.

professional development

We take pride in o ering support and opportunities for our people to enhance their skillsets and capabilities with self-directed and continous learning.

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

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Patron

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong

Chairman

Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam

Life Trustees

Prof S Jayakumar

Mr S Dhanabalan

Mr S Chandra Das

Mr J Y Pillay

Mr Sat Pal Khattar

Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam

Mr K Shanmugam

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

Advisors

Dr Vivian Balakrishnan

Mr S Iswaran

Mr Vikram Nair

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President

Ms Indranee Rajah

Vice Presidents

Mr Shekaran Krishnan

Mr Sarjit Singh

Secretary

Mr Siraj Omar

Treasurer

Mr G Arull

Members

Mr Murali Pillai

Mr K Ramamoorthy

Mrs Rathi Parimalan

Mr Mohamed Nasim

Ms Carmelia Nathen

Prof Vineeta Sinha

Mr R Raghunathan

Ms Praveen Randhawa

Mr R Rajakanth

DURGA KESHAV

She has been a volunteer since she was little, now mum-of-three Durga Keshav runs her own volunteer initiative with support from the youths of the SINDA Youth Club.

As a pre-schooler, Durga used to follow her mother, aunts and grandmother to visit old age homes every weekend. Later, a teenaged Durga would volunteer with SINDA’s Project Read, and then go on to start various initiatives of her own. It is no wonder, then, that in raising her children, she made sure to cultivate the same spirit of serving the community in them.

The early childhood educator and her husband set up KuttyDinosaurs—so named because the kids were “dinophiles”—to encourage her children to “do good”. As a family they would reflect on news stories and brainstorm ways to help. Now that the children are older, they not only propose plans but also raise funds for such projects themselves. “They understand that they can make the world a better place by taking the first step,” Durga explains.

In Her Words

SC: What would you like to share with our readers?

Durga: “I believe that every minute invested in volunteering makes a difference not just in the lives of others but also our lives. You will receive in unexpected ways!”

Today, KuttyDinosaurs organises free educational excursions as well as donation programmes for underprivileged children in Singapore and Asia. The SINDA Youth Club has been a steady partner since 2019, and Durga has only praise for the volunteers: “The youths come from different backgrounds and they interact very well with our beneficiaries,” she reports.

In 2014, Durga was named a Singapore Silent Hero (Outstanding/Inspiring Youth) for her “extraordinary dedication to improving lives”. Almost a decade on, her commitment is steadfast. Durga is looking forward to nurturing other young heroes, and hopes to recruit more children as volunteers and imbuing in them a passion for “doing good” while they are young. “It’s a very special feeling when you give your time and effort, sharing your expertise or simply being present for a person,” Durga says.

Durga with her children –Chael Dhruvin, 6, Michaela Dhruvina, 4 and Raphael Dhruv, 8

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