Believe in strong effective communications in order for partnerships to work out as there are various working styles and personalities when it comes to getting work done. Thus, we learnt that we should always open-minded and receptive to changes.

Social

We were able to understand the struggles that financially disadvantaged youths go through in order to complete their education. We cleared up our assumptions about them and discarded names associating them as "rowdy", "noisy" and "rebellious". To ensure that they have enough educational resources for themselves, many of them take on part-time jobs to sustain their needs, showing how independent and hardworking they are.

Affective

I believe that in any sort of relationships; either business or friendships, communication is key. Despite having different opinions, we should always learn to listen and effectively communicate our thoughts so that there will not be any unnecessary misunderstanding. Through this FYP, I further understood why people were required to communicate with others carefully as it is a key indicator to a group’s teamwork and cohesiveness.

Social

Being a financially disadvantaged youth myself, I used to think that the only option to cope with my financial circumstances was to count on the government subsidies. Little did I know, many social enterprises in Singapore are branching out to assist these youths through various ways like their own pocket money fund (i.e. financial assistance scheme) and integrating a plough-back profit model in their start-ups. It warms me to see how much the community is putting in to ensure that the low-income in Singapore can fulfill their studies with all the educational resources they need.

Affective

From questioning my personal beliefs to deciding which values are right and strengthening them, I believe this project has helped me to grow most in the area of communication.

Besides having an influence of production efficiency, communication also affects team morale. Through this project, I have learnt the value of being reliable, keeping promises, staying positive and building tolerance.

Social

Previously, I developed a negative impression of the youths from low-income families after interacting with those residing in rental flats. They were rowdy and violent and I even personally witnessed them getting into a fight over trivial matters.

After that incident, I was left with misconceptions of the disadvantaged youths.

However, during this project, I was able to see another side of these youths where they show their perseverance in not letting their financial status determine them. As their parents may be busy working to support their family, they may not have proper guidance growing up which may cause them an inability to express themselves well, leading to rowdiness and rudeness.

I learnt not to judge the disadvantaged youths by their superficial behaviour and look deeper into the potential problems they may face.

Affective

I believe that strong communication can bring collaborations and partnerships to much greater heights. It plays a huge role as it is the beginning, the determining factor of any action and the key to maintaining relationships. A little communication can go a long way.

Working together in a group was not easy all the time as members were differently opinionated. I had to be acceptive of our differences, be more open-minded and flexible to feedback. Never shut down ideas quickly but rationalise more.

As a person who prefers sticking to procedures, I learnt to be receptive to changes and common occurrences. As a more reserved individual, doing sales pitches for the first time forced me to step out of my comfort zone and put up a qualified and confident front.

Social

Prior to taking up this project, I used to have a more negative perception that most disadvantaged youths are people who are rowdy and lazier, due to bad influences they mix around with. Nonetheless, it made me realise and think about how privileged I am. From educational opportunities to social activities and even daily struggles, they are not struggles I have to worry and miss out on daily.

The disadvantaged youths face multiple challenges, but yet they conceal the difficulties they face in front of others. They work multiple jobs in the midst of the school term, and yet I do not even take up part-time work during the school term. They are so hardworking and independent. Yet, it also shows that with more financial help, these youths are able to sacrifice lesser things in life.

Affective

This collaboration with our industry partner has definitely been a test of our ability to work alongside new people with opposing and differing views. This project has shown me the importance of equal contribution and participation from both parties for a collaboration to be successful, or at least to stand a chance to work out.

Social

I used to assume that financially disadvantaged youths were mainly youths under negative influences and would rebel their way through life. However, through this project, I learnt that many financially disadvantaged youths are actually very hardworking and willing to work for opportunities and resources that their parents are unable to provide them with, on their own. Most of these youths are more independent than majority of the youths without financial problems.