In my role as a student leader, I had the privilege of participating in a dialogue session with Minister of Education Chan Chun Sing, where we explored critical issues in education and Singapore's future. One of the focal points was the significance of lifelong learning in an increasingly dynamic world. Minister Chan emphasized that while lifelong learning presents trade-offs such as time and job stability, its benefits outweigh these risks, particularly through broadening perspectives and expanding networks.

We delved into practical examples, such as the evolution of remote work and its implications globally, where competition extends beyond national borders. Minister Chan underscored the importance of adapting to change, highlighting Japan's concept of Ikigai—finding fulfillment through aligning passion, mission, vocation, and profession.

Throughout our discussion, we explored the personal agency in finding meaning and adapting to detours in career paths, emphasizing resilience and determination. Minister Chan also addressed the complexities of meritocracy, noting its imperfections and the importance of recognizing diverse talents beyond academic achievements.

Beyond education, we discussed the broader theme of social responsibility and the role of individuals in contributing meaningfully to society. Minister Chan stressed that while efficiency is crucial, fostering an inclusive and compassionate society requires recognizing diverse contributions and opportunities for all.

Reflecting on these insights, I recognize the value of resilience, adaptability, and social responsibility in navigating personal and professional challenges. The dialogue with Minister Chan reinforced my commitment to continuous learning and contributing positively to Singapore's progress towards greater social mobility and inclusivity.

At the annual SAJC Model United Nations (MUN), I had the privilege of serving as Deputy Chair for the first time, where my responsibilities included directing council sessions, setting agendas, and facilitating discussions among participating nations. It was an enlightening experience, especially as a first-timer in MUN, as I gained deeper insights into geopolitics and the intricate workings of the United Nations.

One of the highlights was the presence of Professor Kishore Mahbubani, a distinguished fellow at NUS, who shared thought-provoking insights during his address. He touched upon several paradoxes in today’s interconnected world, emphasizing how despite greater global interdependence, fragility persists due to geopolitical tensions, such as those between the US and China. His observations about leadership within the UN as well as views regarding superpowers sparked intense discussion among delegates.

Professor Mahbubani underscored the pivotal role of diplomacy, highlighting it as one of the oldest and most dynamic professions. He elaborated on the nuanced strategies diplomats employ, often working in secrecy and leveraging power dynamics over principles to achieve diplomatic goals effectively. His reflections on Singapore’s founding leaders—Lee Kuan Yew, Goh Keng Swee, and S. Rajaratnam—further emphasized the importance of strategic diplomacy in shaping Singapore’s international relations.

A particularly compelling point was Professor Mahbubani’s assertion that ASEAN provides a crucial shield against the intense geopolitical rivalry between the US and China. He illustrated this with historical examples, such as Singapore’s unexpected advisory role in Vietnam following the collapse of the USSR, despite previous strained relations due to ideological differences.

Overall, the SAJC MUN, coupled with Professor Mahbubani’s insights, not only deepened my understanding of global affairs but also reinforced the significance of diplomacy and historical context in navigating complex international relations. It was a transformative experience that encouraged me to continue exploring and contributing to discussions on global peace and cooperation.

At the NUS Sejarah Inquisition (SI), I had the enriching opportunity to delve into Singapore’s cultural heritage through the lens of its vanishing traditions. This year’s theme, "Singapore’s Dying Traditions," prompted my team and me to explore the socio-cultural history of traditional pastries and bakeries in Singapore’s vibrant food culture.

Our focus was particularly on how globalization and rapid urbanization have impacted the demand for traditional pastries over the decades. We discussed how these changes pose challenges to preserving our culinary heritage, as younger generations may be less inclined to learn the intricate techniques and traditions passed down by their predecessors.

Through our research, we examined the historical evolution of traditional pastries and debated reasons behind their declining popularity in recent years. We explored the cultural significance of these pastries, not just as food but as embodiments of Singapore’s diverse cultural fabric. This exploration led us to consider strategies for strengthening Singapore’s food culture, proposing ideas on how to overcome challenges and ensure the continued appreciation and preservation of our culinary traditions.

Participating in SI was truly eye-opening, as it allowed me to deepen my understanding of the complexities involved in preserving cultural heritage in a globalized world. It reinforced my belief in the importance of valuing and safeguarding traditions that define our national identity, inspiring me to contribute actively to the ongoing dialogue on cultural preservation in Singapore. Ending on a sweet note, my team and I managed to clinch our positions as the top 3 finalists. 

The Singapore Perspectives (SP) conference, themed around "Youth," was an eye-opening experience. Held online on January 22 and culminating in an in-person event on January 29, 2024, it provided deep insights into the challenges faced by my generation amidst Singapore's shifting societal dynamics.

The online forums kicked off with "What is Being Young Like Today?", where we delved into recent studies on youth. It was fascinating to learn about the diverse experiences and struggles of today's youth, from navigating education and career paths to redefining family norms. The discussions were thought-provoking, highlighting how societal expectations and technological advancements are reshaping our lives.

In the subsequent forum, "The Terrain Ahead," we explored the future landscape of Singapore. Demographic changes, climate considerations, and technological advancements were at the forefront. The conversations emphasized the importance of sustainable planning and adapting to an ageing population, which resonated deeply considering the demographic trends ahead.

Overall, SP2024 was not just informative but also inspiring. It underscored the complexities and opportunities of being young in Singapore today. The blend of research findings and personal narratives offered a comprehensive view of our generation's role in shaping the nation's future. I left the conference with a renewed sense of awareness and optimism, knowing that our collective insights and actions can contribute positively to Singapore's evolving socio-economic landscape.

Participating in the Outdoor Adventure Club's expedition to Vietnam from December 25th to 29th was truly an indescribable experience that offered profound insights into preparedness, teamwork, resilience and cultural differences.

Trekking up and descending Mount Fansipan, the highest mountain in Indochina spanning over 3147m in elevation to our descent, I took away a few key lessons which I manage to reflect further on during our stay at Hanoi.

Firstly, the importance of Being Prepared. Truthfully, I was relatively relaxed about the trip initially, as I believed that it would just be a simple trek and that nothing could go wrong; since it was a school trip and therefore, the school would not allow us to engage in any potentially dangerous activities... However, I was heavily mistaken. Upon the first 5 minutes of trekking, I realised that this trek was not one that I had imagined at all. The terrain was steep, rocky and slippery. Despite it already being one of the safer trails since many JCs from Singapore would come here as well, I was quite horrified to see that there was actually no clear path to walk. Even more so, we had to do rock climbing and bouldering in real life which has never crossed my mind. (I'm confident to say that everyone are experts of it by now)k. This experience taught me the importance of being prepared as it was fortunate enough that we had the right trekking shoes and winter wear, since we were trekking during winter where the temperature would drop down to around three degrees midnight. Thinking about it, it was lucky for us that it did not rain throughout our trek or our lives would have been at stake, even if we possessed all the equipment required.

Next, the importance of a Team. During the trek up and especially during our descent, there were many occasions where I thought to myself how lucky I was to have the help of my supportive friends and CCA mates, as it would have been highly impossible to get through those obstacles alone. There were metal ladders in the middle of the mountains to help us reach higher ground, in the instances where bouldering was not possible. However, it was scary to see that those ladders were not very safe either as they were just built with basic infrastructure. The fact that we were carrying our camping bag which weighed around five to seven kilograms, and that we could not see what was above or below us, given that we were so focused on each step to avoid falling, did not help. Thus, friends were important in giving direction and supporting one another mentally and spiritually. When possible, we would even help push the bag of the person ahead of us so it was lighter for them to go up the rocks.

Lastly, the importance of Resilience. During the 2 day trek, there were many moments where I felt like giving up, as it was not only physically taxing, but even more so dangerous as one wrong move would result in a fall off the mountain. One would think that the teachers and guides would be with us all of the time, but to be frank, unless you were at the back or the very front, you would mostly be alone as the teachers and guides would have to focus on helping those who required greater help. Thus no one would be there to monitor and protect you most of the time. This made it a mental game for all of us.

I think an important thing I noted upon my reflection of the trek, was that I did not learn new things about myself. Rather the trek made me test who I thought myself to be, was who I really am. It tested my resilience and tenacity greatly, but I am glad to say I was not wrong.  Despite numerous complains or even instances where i felt like giving up; to just sit a cable car down once we reached the summit. I told myself that I had come this far and if I gave up, I would have disappointed not only my friends, but more so myself. I wanted to conquer the mountain and to do it with my friends. This pushed me to continue the descent down and eventually reached base camp, despite my exhaustion and fears of dying. 

Overall, the trek really tested my character and the values that I hold as an individual. It allowed me to show myself that I had the resilience and grit that I believed I possessed. Additionally, it made me cherish my loved ones more, as being in a foreign country alone facing such difficult circumstances, I find myself often thinking about the people I hold close to my heart, and they were a huge source of strength to me. 

Moving off from trekking to our city exploration, the CCA had a really great time at Sapa especially, as we were greeted by vibrant lights and cold, comfortable weather, that we did not expect Vietnam to have. My impression was that we would have to be sweating it out like in Singapore, but I was pleasantly surprised and fortunately prepared too... We managed to try out the art of bargaining in Sapa and at Hanoi, while also appreciating the architecture and beauty in Vietnam. Sapa was a really great place for us  foreigners, as they highly modernised the area to attract tourists. There were a myriad of coffee places and a variety of cuisines such as Italian, which really shocked us. Not to mention, there were many great photo taking spots as well. 

Over the past 4 days, we also managed to indulge in a variety of local Vietnamese food in the city, such as Pho to local Vietnam coffee from a place called Khuang's Cafe; equivalent to a Starbucks. In the mountains, the potters gave us some bread which went alongside their traditional processed meat. They also cooked for us hot, hearty meals in the cold mountains, serving beef and potatoes. Staying overnight in the mountians was a fascinating experience as I recalled the CCA sitting together around campfire, sipping tea cooked over charcoal and enjoying the stars in the early morning. 

In summary, the trip made me appreciate how lucky we are to have such  luxury of food and services at our disposal whereas in Vietnam, not everyone is able to enjoy eating varieties of cuisines each day. However, Vietnam has also taught me something that I thought Singaporeans, including myself will find interesting. The people there (those we interacted with at least) do not complain at all despite them facing similar/harsher conditions than us. (the locals climb the same mountain we did in slippers while we were complaining) Perhaps, this is food for thought...

At the Global Youth Leadership Summit on September 9 2023, attendees were provided with valuable insights and guidance on addressing essential aspects of youth well-being and personal development.

The summit emphasized the creation of a safe space for young individuals, highlighting the importance of preserving mental health. This safe space serves as an environment where one can feel relaxed and be more willing to express themselves clearly, which is crucial in addressing personal challenges and seeking support.

Building relationships was identified as a key factor in initiating conversations and supporting one another. Being a peer supporter is a role that involves preparation, recognizing potential, exploring possibilities, understanding the process, and connecting with peers (the 5Ps). This approach promotes positive interactions and engagement within the youth community.

A practical framework, represented by the acronym "LOOKS," was introduced to guide effective communication: Listen actively ; Observe carefully ; Focus on the desired outcome ; Enhance knowledge and skills ; Stay attentive to the conversation. Another framework, "ABCD," was shared to encourage constructive action and behavior, foster meaningful conversations, and make informed decisions.

The summit featured insights from prominent individuals, including Ms. Gan Siow Huang, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Manpower, and Mr. David Chua, CEO of the National Youth Council. Their contributions offered valuable perspectives and inspiration to the youth attendees.

Overall, the event provided a platform for youth to explore topics related to mental health, peer support, and effective communication. It highlighted the importance of empowering youths like us, to take an active role in our well-being and personal development while also fostering a supportive community of peers.

The HarmonyWorks! conference held on July 22th 2023, brought forth essential discussions about the experiences and challenges faced by migrants in Singapore. The event provided a platform for sharing and understanding, including insights from our President, Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam. 

During the conference, several key points and challenges were highlighted. Firstly, during our breakout sessions, we discussed the distinction between temporary migrants, often seeking short-term opportunities for education or work and permanent immigrants who come with the intention of settling in Singapore. We came to conclude that these differences impacted the way these individuals are perceived and treated. Secondly,  the conference touched upon the concept of "white privilege," where expatriates (often from Western countries) may receive more favorable treatment compared to Asian migrants, despite both groups having similar goals. This difference in treatment is attributed to perceptions and stereotypes.

Furtheremore, we touched on the common preconceptions about the types of jobs migrants perform include those in construction, F&B, and nursing, often characterized by hardship and low wages. However, the reality is more diverse, with migrants holding positions in construction, nursing, labor, office jobs, and administration, among others.The conference also discussed instances of discrimination, such as discrimination against local Indians in specific situations and gestures of disrespect.

A focus of the conference was on enhancing the living conditions of migrants, particularly those who often live in cramped dormitories or lorries. This issue highlights the need for better housing and working conditions.

The event also highlighted existing tensions between Singaporeans and migrants, often stemming from cultural differences and competition for jobs in specific sectors. Addressing these tensions are vital towards building a harmonious society.

Overall, the conference underscored the importance of these discussions and the commitment to addressing the challenges faced by migrants in Singapore. It provided a platform for sharing and understanding, working towards more inclusive and equitable policies and practices to promote harmony and cohesion within the society.

On the 9th Of June 2023, I had the opportunity to attend the 13th S Rajaratnam Lecture by President Halimah Yacob. From her sharing, I gained profound insights into the critical importance of domestic unity and resilience in our increasingly troubled world. These insights have a direct impact on improving and sustaining bilateral relations within ASEAN and with the rest of the world.

The lecture provided valuable perspectives on the functioning of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and the responsibilities associated with representing Singapore overseas. It underscored the significance of maintaining strong bilateral relations with other countries to ensure Singapore's continued economic growth and access to support during times of need. The lecture also emphasized Singapore's role in the global arena, highlighting that many countries would mourn our absence, underscoring the importance of our international presence.

In a world marked by geopolitical tensions, nuclear proliferation, technological advancements like artificial intelligence, and the complex nature of international diplomacy, Singapore, as a small, open trading environment, faces multifaceted challenges. Multilateral cooperation was emphasized as the key to addressing global issues like the COVID-19 pandemic and navigating the challenges of diverse and divisive politics.

Unity and resilience at the national level were highlighted as critical in the face of an increasingly troubled world. Singapore, being a young nation composed of people from various races and backgrounds, can only thrive as a global city by forging a shared identity of "One United People." To build resilience, Singaporeans need to feel they have a say in the future, and this requires strong institutions, government services, and trust-building.

The lecture stressed the importance of investing in education, skills training, and an entrepreneur-friendly business environment to equip Singaporeans for the future. It acknowledged the strength of Singapore's multiracial and multi-religious society, emphasizing the need to not only have laws but also find social common ground for mutual compassion and understanding.

The youth were recognized as essential participants in advocating inter-racial and inter-religious harmony, with programs like the Harmony Champions initiative aiming to nurture these advocates. Moreover, Singaporeans were encouraged to equip themselves with the knowledge and skills to communicate sensitive issues effectively, protecting the Singaporean core.

In an era where misinformation and misinterpretation can easily spread through digital platforms, Singapore must remain vigilant and discerning. While Singapore can contribute to global solutions despite its small size, the emphasis was on distinguishing sensational from factual information and countering falsehoods through critical thinking and responsible information consumption.

The lecture highlighted the importance of safeguarding and advancing national interests through foreign policy. It emphasized the need for innovative solutions, peaceful dialogues, and the pursuit of common interests. Despite the challenges in the multilateral trading system, many opportunities exist for expanding trade and business ties. For Singapore to have a voice that matters, it must maintain cohesion and resilience.

Every Singaporean has a role to play in making the nation strong, stable, cohesive, and connected to the world. Domestic unity and resilience are critical for Singapore to maintain its international footprint and forge a better future. Addressing misinformation, engaging with ASEAN, and building a circle of like-minded partners are all crucial components of Singapore's diplomatic efforts.

The lecture concluded by highlighting the importance of gender equality and the need for a supportive ecosystem to promote competent women in leadership roles. It stressed the value of diplomacy and relationship-building to achieve national goals and secure a brighter future for Singaporeans.

The lecture underscored the idea that Singaporeans, collectively, have the power to shape both domestic and foreign policy, reinforcing the importance of a resilient, united, and engaged citizenry in navigating the challenges of an increasingly complex global landscape.

During the "Career Management 101: The Street Smart Way" seminar on the 8th Of June 2023. Mr Tet Fah Liew, an established Career Director and Business Mentor shared on tips to future-proof our career. During his sharing, I gathered valuable insights into effective career management and street-smart strategies. The seminar offered practical advice and tips for navigating the corporate world and making informed career choices.

One key takeaway was the importance of selling a business when it's performing well, underlining the significance of timing in maximizing returns. Additionally, the seminar emphasized the need to safeguard company secrets by avoiding specific data and instead using percentages when discussing achievements.

To stand out as a High Potential (HIPO) candidate, the seminar advised on highlighting one's unique strengths and contributions. It also stressed the importance of not over-aligning your strengths with a company's focus when editing your CV, as it can come across as trying too hard.

When it comes to job interviews and negotiations, it was recommended not to reveal your current pay or the reasons for leaving your previous job. Instead, the emphasis was on maintaining good relationships with former colleagues and companies.

Another valuable tip was to refrain from stating the desired pay in a job interview and let the employer make the first offer. Similarly, it was suggested that if you have another job offer, you can tactfully mention it to create a sense of urgency in potential employers.

The seminar highlighted the significance of non-verbal communication, such as body language, and suggested that it can be emulated but should be done smartly. Emotional intelligence (EQ) was emphasized as an important attribute for career success.

Networking was underscored as a key strategy in career management, emphasizing the need to build and nurture professional relationships. Overall, the seminar provided practical and street-smart guidance for effectively managing one's career in a competitive and dynamic job market.

On May 19th 2023, I had the privilege to attend the SJI 2023 Catalyst Conference @ St Joseph's Institution. During the event, I had the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its relevance to education and lifelong learning. The conference underscored the importance of understanding AI and harnessing its potential to enhance our learning experiences. It emphasized that AI is a vast field with untapped potential, and we must remain committed to continuous learning to keep up with its ever-evolving capabilities. The event also sparked reflection on the disparity between what we learn in traditional educational settings and the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a world increasingly influenced by AI and technology.

Moreover, the conference provided a unique perspective on entrepreneurship and the challenges associated with setting up a business. It emphasized the need to persist and remain unwavering in our passions, drawing inspiration from the experiences of individuals like Mr. James Pang, CEO of Pacific Radiance, who invested substantial amounts of money multiple times before achieving success. These stories served as motivational examples of determination and resilience in the face of entrepreneurial challenges.

The event also offered insights into various industries, including media, film, oil, and technology, shedding light on their dynamic nature and the opportunities they present for innovation and growth. Overall, the conference was a valuable experience that highlighted the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning in an ever-changing world. It reinforced the significance of AI in education and the tenacity required for entrepreneurial endeavors while providing a broader perspective on diverse industries and their potential for exploration and advancement.

On 1st April 2023, I had the opportunity to attend the SG75 Launch Event @ PSA. This year's theme celebrated one of Singapore's greatest strengths: the harmony and cohesion of its multi-faceted society. It also underscored the responsibility of every citizen to maintain and strengthen this harmony so as to create a home where people can live as equals, regardless of their race, language, or religion. 

During the Lego Serious Play Workshop, other than exploring the importance of racial harmony, participants were also encouraged to envision Singapore's ideal future. This workshop emphasised the significance of maintaining harmony among diverse racial groups and those in our immediate communities, underlining the pivotal role of kindness and smiling in preserving Singapore's unity. From the sharing by Mr Karun, Head Of Communication @ Singapore Kindess Movement, I came to understand that kindness and smiling went beyond mere gestures; it was highlighted that these acts have far-reaching effects, leading to better mental health, improved behavior, and the creation of a positive learning environment. They also contribute to building stronger relationships, boosting overall mood, and improving well-being. Importantly, these actions serve as a catalyst for increasing motivation and fostering racial harmony, which is celebrated as one of our nation's greatest strengths and responsibilities. This underscored the transformative power of kindness and its role in nurturing a more harmonious and inclusive Singaporean society

Furthermore, we delved into the history and development of HDBs across the years, with the insights provided by the Deputy CEO, Dr Johnny Wong. Dr Wong shed light on HDB's initial purpose of providing affordable and quality homes, and how the organization has evolved to focus on building green homes. He highlighted ongoing testing facilities and the development of innovative housing systems in places like Tengah and Pungol, all aimed at making the most of limited land resources and learning valuable lessons for the future. In particular, the current testing in Tengah is centered around a People-Centered and Healthy Living approach. The People-Centered aspect involves amenities such as car parks and social hubs, while the Healthy Living focus includes the Health District @ Queensway, a wellness hub featuring an elevated exercise track and a multigenerational gym. This provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of housing development in Singapore, reflecting the nation's dedication to innovation and sustainability to achieve its ultimate goal of building inclusive and liveable flats that support the well-being and needs of the diverse population in Singapore.

These discussions and activities, led by Minister Indranne Rajah, encouraged participants to seek commonalities and enhance their understanding of the intricate tapestry of managing diversity. This experience highligted and affirmed Singapore's enduring commitment to upholding racial harmony in Singapore.

So, in the face of social strife, racial conflicts, as well as new economic and geo-political challenges, the question arises: Can our unity in diversity withstand the test of time? It compels us to reflect on what more can be done to weave our social fabric together, ensuring that we can weather any future storm and continue to rise above the social harmony that most of us enjoy today. Overall, this experience served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey to uphold and strengthen Singapore's harmonious and inclusive identity, which will soon rest on Youths like us.