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.

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.

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 to hike Mount Fansipan, the highest mountain in Indochina spanning over 3147m in elevation, was truly an indescribable experience that offered profound insights into preparedness, teamwork, resilience and cultural differences. 

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 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.

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.

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.

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.