SOAR: Flourishing MINDS workshops.
Since April 2025, I have been volunteering as a Programme Developer and Facilitator for SOAR's "Flourishing Minds Workshops". In this role, I actively contribute to a non-profit organisation dedicated to bridging people in the mental health community and beyond in Singapore.
SOAR aims to reconnect individuals with mental health conditions to themselves and their communities through workshops that spark deep and thoughtful conversations about living with mental health issues. My responsibilities include developing workshop ideas and facilitating honest conversations, as well as creating safe and welcoming spaces for participants. This involves bringing empathy, creativity, and an open heart to every session, aligning with SOAR's vision of fostering a safe and thriving mental health community built on mutual regard, confidentiality, and respect.
As a key agent of change, I am committed to supporting SOAR's mission to make a difference in the lives of those impacted by mental health issues in Singapore.
VOLUNTEERING WITH YLABS@COnVALESECE LABS.
Since the 24th of March 2025, I've had the privilege of volunteering with YLabs @ Convalesece Labs, contributing to the development of an innovative mental health application. My role has involved actively participating in numerous brainstorming and ideation sessions, where I've collaborated with the team to generate creative ideas and designs for the app.
These workshops have been incredibly insightful, fostering deep and personal discussions on youth mental health. We've explored critical topics such as combating the stigma surrounding mental health support and identifying effective ways to seek help both online and within communities.
Through this experience, I've connected with individuals from diverse backgrounds, each sharing their unique perspectives and experiences with mental health. These interactions have been invaluable, leaving me feeling well-informed and personally developed as I continue to await further sessions.
Brainstorming Sessions
Project meraki.
Project Meraki was born from the joint passions of my classmate, Fan Ziduan, and I in regards to the creative arts as well as psychology. We shared an intense desire to encourage mental wellness amongst the student body in SAJC as we had realised the magnitude of students refusing to reach out in times of distress due to factors such as a lack of trust or the impression that their problems were not serious enough to seek support. Thus, Project Meraki, a Student-Initiated Project, was founded upon our proclivity towards supporting our fellow peers in any way we could.
The purpose of our Student-Initiated Project is to give back to the community by providing a suitable outlet for self-expression and healthy regulation of pent-up emotions. We wish to do so through art therapy, as art therapy can be said to improve cognitive and sensorimotor functions, foster self-esteem and self-awareness, cultivate emotional resilience and reduce and resolve conflicts and distress. Through uniting youths working towards a common goal, it creates a warm and embracing community which would also allow our participants to foster social skills and build a support system.
We started with sessions within our college, organising after-school programmes for students to express themselves through the creation of their own artworks. Eventually, we adapted and shaped our project to extend our efforts out to students from other schools or institutions. We had hoped to reach out to schools at both the primary and secondary level, and even venture into special education schools such as Pathlight and St. Andrew’s Mission School but was only given the opportunity to carry out this outreach programme in Bendemeer Primary School.
Our project was held bi-weekly on Mondays with a small group of J1s and the occasional J2s. Project Meraki opened its arms to the student body on the 1st of April 2024 with our first session and ended on the 5th of August 2024. Throughout its run, Meraki has participated in school-based events such as Mental Health Week 2024 with our very own booth as well as Teacher's Day 2024. Despite the ending of Project Meraki '24, SAJC has expressed its desire in continuing the project with a new team made up of our current J1 participants. Furthermore, SAJC has extended our reach as a Student-Initiated Project beyond art therapy to aiding in the creation of a tree installation in the library for Teacher's Day. The continuation of the Meraki x Bendemeer Primary School collaboration was also highly requested by both SAJC as well as our partner school into the foreseeable future due to the overwhelmingly positive response.
All in all, Project Meraki has not only gifted me with valuable friendships and memories but it has also equipped me with a multitude of skills ranging from emotional regulation, healthy coping practices and exceptional communication abilities as I engaged with a wide range participants of varying ages.
Our Instagram Page - @sa.projectmeraki
A Typical Meraki Session
Our Last Meraki Session for 2024
Library Tree Project for Teacher's Day 2024
Student Initiated learning (SIL).
Yale University: Introduction to Psychology Course.
On the 22nd of January 2025, I had completed the Yale University: Introduction to Psychology Course, which consisted of a total of 12 modules, and 6 honours quizzes.
The course commenced by laying the groundwork of psychological study, delving into the diverse theoretical frameworks that seek to explain human behaviour and mental processes. Throughout these initial modules, I was consistently presented the intricate mechanisms of the human mind and the methodologies employed by psychologists to investigate and interpret behaviour.
I was intrigued by the course's strong emphasis on the principles of critical thinking and scientific inquiry. The curriculum underscored the crucial role of empirical evidence in substantiating psychological theories and actively encouraged students to adopt a critical lens when evaluating information. This focus not only honed my analytical and problem-solving abilities but also instilled in me a habit of approaching psychological topics with a healthy sense of scepticism and a commitment to evidence-based reasoning.
A significant highlight of this course was the broad exposure it provided to the diverse spectrum of topics within psychology. This exploration fostered a deeper appreciation for the pervasive relevance of psychology in our everyday lives, shedding light on areas such as childhood development, social interactions, cognitive functions, and the intricate relationship between the mind and the brain.
In conclusion, I found the Yale University Introduction to Psychology Coursera course to be an exceptionally enriching and valuable learning journey. It delivered a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the field of psychology, significantly enhancing my understanding and passion of the multifaceted world of human behaviour.
Introduction to Psychology Certification
University of Edinburgh: Introduction to Philosophy Course.
On the 22nd of January 2025, I had completed the University of Edinburgh: Introduction to Philosophy Course, which consisted of a total of 9 modules, 18 quizzes as well as a peer assessment.
The course started off with a comprehensive overview presented by Dr. Dave Ward, exploring the fundamental nature of philosophy and its distinct aims and methodologies. Key inquiries, such as how philosophy addresses fundamental questions and the inherent significance of these questions, were examined alongside the criteria employed by philosophers to evaluate the validity of philosophical arguments. Furthermore, the perspectives of influential philosophers like David Hume and Immanuel Kant on discerning the appropriate frameworks for understanding the world were introduced, providing me with a valuable initial exposure to the diverse landscape of philosophical thought.
A particularly compelling aspect of this course was its emphasis on the cultivation of critical thinking and rigorous argumentation. The curriculum underscored the importance of logical reasoning and the careful construction of philosophical arguments, encouraging students to engage thoughtfully with the presented material. This focus significantly contributed to the development of my analytical and problem-solving capabilities and fostered an appreciation for approaching philosophical concepts with intellectual rigor and a commitment to reasoned inquiry.
All in all, I found the University of Edinburgh Introduction to Philosophy Coursera course to be a highly rewarding and intellectually stimulating learning experience. It provided an amazing introduction to the core principles and diverse domains of philosophy, significantly enhancing my capacity for critical thought and reasoned analysis.
Introduction to Philosophy Certification
University of Sydney: Positive Psychology & Mental Health Course.
On the 1st of April 2025, I had completed the University of Sydney: Positive Mental Health & Psychiatry Course, which consists of a total of 5 modules and 2 quizzes.
As someone who has experienced multiple challenges with mental health, personally and from my peers, as well as having to work with those suffering from mental health problems in my volunteering journey at IMH, I have a strong inclination towards understanding the psychology of mental health. Combined with my innate empathetic abilities, this Coursera course with Dr. Sonia Kumar had undoubtedly equipped me with the necessary skills to be cognisant of the complex workings of mental health, aided me in my aspirations to further pursue my interest in Psychology at the University level as well as allowed me to support those around me at a more informed level.
This course aims to define mental health in a positive sense, in relation to the influence of mental illness and social factors, and discusses the different components of mental health such as social, emotional and psychological well being. Furthermore, the course explores the role of stress in everyday life and discusses coping mechanisms to combat the negative impacts that results from it. Lastly, Dr. Sonia Kumar asserts the importance of the contributions from positive psychology in the recovery movement.
Overall, the knowledge gained from this course allowed me to perceive mental health from a more informed perspective. Thus, shaping the way I engage with individuals and society as a whole.
Positive Psychiatry & Mental Health Certification
University of Melbourne: Foundations of International Psychiatry Course.
On the 3rd of April 2025, I had completed the University of Melbourne: Foundations of International Psychiatry Course, which consists of a total of 5 modules and 4 quizzes.
My career ambitions ultimately lie in the field of Psychology and I aspire to be a Clinical Psychologist. Hence, this course by Dr. Mahesh Jayaram and Dr. Greg Shields on Coursera piqued my interest as it was designed to provide essential background knowledge and practical skills for health professionals working with mentally unwell patients, which would be imperative information to possess. The course also emphasises on the importance of good communication skills and how to work effectively and collaboratively with patients, especially in the circumstances of when patients refuse help or in more severe cases. Additionally, the course explores a myriad of topics from recognising skills and techniques used when interviewing mentally unwell patients to describing the core conditions embodied by a professional in a therapeutic relationship.
Overall, the knowledge gained from this course would not only aid me in realising my dreams to be a Clinical Psychologist but also provide me with the necessary skills to approach similar situations as an individual volunteering at IMH.
Foundations of International Psychiatry Certification
American Psychological Association: Psychology of Anxiety, Mood, Substance Use, & Addictive Behaviours Specialisation.
On the 7th of April 2025, I had completed the American Psychological Association's "Psychology of Anxiety, Mood, Substance Use and Addictive Behaviours Specialisation" on Coursera, which consisted of three courses.
This specialisation, offered by the APA, provided an in-depth exploration of theory, diagnostic criteria, and evidence-based treatment approaches for prevalent psychological challenges. I was introduced to the intricate interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to the development and maintenance of anxiety and mood disorders. The course material delved into various diagnostic categories, such as generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, major depressive disorder, and bipolar disorder, providing a nuanced understanding of their clinical presentations.
Furthermore, a significant portion of the specialisation was dedicated to understanding substance use and addictive behaviours. This involved an examination of the mechanisms of addiction, the psychological factors that contribute to substance dependence, and the various forms that addictive behaviours can take. The courses had also explored the impact of these issues on individuals, families, and society.
A key strength of this specialisation was its emphasis on evidence-based interventions. I was exposed to a range of therapeutic treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing, as well as their application in treating anxiety, mood disorders, and substance use disorders. It highlighted the importance of treatments and the process of tailoring interventions to meet the specific needs of individuals.
Overall, learning from leading experts in psychology provided valuable insights into current research and best practices in the assessment and treatment of these complex conditions. It had also fostered a deeper understanding of the ethical considerations involved in working with individuals experiencing these challenges, granting me a greater understanding of psychology as a whole.
Psychology of Anxiety, Mood. Substance Use, & Addictive Behaviours Specialisation Certification
IMH Mental Health Literacy Course: Office of Population Health.
As part of my volunteer intake at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH), I was required to complete the Mental Health Literacy Course offered by the Office of Population Health. I am proud to say that I completed the course with outstanding grades, which not only highlighted my proficiency in emotional capacity but also deepened my understanding of mental health and the complexities involved in engaging with patients.
The course provided me with invaluable knowledge on the psychosocial aspects of mental health, effective communication strategies, and how to best support individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical tools, I was equipped with a comprehensive understanding of emotional well-being, stress management, and the importance of empathy in building supportive relationships with patients.
This knowledge has proven instrumental in my role at IMH, as it has allowed me to engage with patients in a more informed, compassionate, and effective manner. Whether it was through creating meaningful interactions during my volunteer sessions or offering emotional support during more challenging moments, the insights gained from this course have enhanced my ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and at different stages of their mental health journeys.
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
My Course Results
Pursuits in the Visual Arts
My love for the visual arts began in early childhood, when I was enrolled in enrichment classes to nurture my strong interest and natural aptitude in the subject. From a young age, I found joy and freedom in creating and drawing and crafting became my most authentic outlet for self-expression. Throughout primary and early secondary school, I consistently achieved high grades in Art, which led to the opportunity to take it as a GCE O Level subject. During this time, I flourished artistically, participating in multiple art competitions and eventually earning an A2 grade for O-Level Art. Eventually, my final coursework was selected for display on the school’s walls which is an achievement that remains especially meaningful to me.
Although I did not pursue Art academically during Junior College, it has remained a vital part of my identity. I continued to find comfort and joy in casual sketching and illustration, and made a point to contribute visually wherever possible including designing posters and materials for class competitions and my H1 Project Work group. As part of Saints Support Crew, I also used art to promote positive mental health within the student body, creating visuals to encourage mental wellness and community support. This passion extended further into initiatives like Project Meraki, where I helped incorporate art into student-led activities that celebrated emotional well-being and creativity.
Over time, my love for visual storytelling expanded into the realm of photography. I’ve picked up both film and digital photography in my free time, exploring the world through a different lens and finding new ways to capture emotion, light, and narrative in everyday moments. This exploration has allowed me to appreciate the subtle beauty of the world around me and deepened my understanding of visual expression as a therapeutic and reflective practice.
My creative pursuits continue to find expression in my current volunteer work with Matchsticks and Project Inner Light, where I participate in craft sessions with individuals navigating mental health challenges. These sessions have affirmed my belief that art is not only a personal outlet, but also a powerful means of empathy, connection, and healing.
To me, the visual arts, in all their forms, are more than a hobby. They are an enduring language of compassion, introspection, and community care.
My GCE O Level Art Piece
A Quick Sketch in Class
Pursuits in the Literary Arts
My passion for the literary arts transcends the academic realm as it’s a deeply personal pursuit that continually drives me. Outside the classroom, I actively immerse myself in the dynamic world of literature. One notable experience was attending the Shakespeare in the Park: Macbeth production on May 21st, 2025, with a close friend. The performance was profoundly impactful, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the play’s musicality and literary brilliance beyond the confines of a traditional classroom setting. This experience not only enriched my appreciation for Shakespeare’s works but also fueled my ongoing passion for writing and deepened my connection to the broader literary world.
The Set of Shakespeare in the Park: Macbeth
Pursuits in Music
Beyond academics, music has been a grounding and inspiring force in my life. I play the electric guitar, acoustic guitar, bass, and occasionally the ukulele. It was a journey that began out of curiosity but grew into a deep, enduring passion. Though largely self-taught, I have also pursued structured learning by taking acoustic guitar lessons at Guitar Emerge, progressing to the Intermediate Level 2 range.
To deepen my appreciation of the art form, I actively immerse myself in Singapore’s music scene by attending gigs, small concerts, and live performances that feature both local and international artists. These experiences have enriched my understanding of music as a universal language and a tool for emotional expression.
Currently, I am further honing my craft by undertaking a Coursera specialisation titled “How to Play Guitar” offered by Berklee College of Music. This course allows me to refine my technical proficiency while deepening my theoretical foundation. Music, for me, is more than a hobby, it's a meaningful form of self-expression, creativity, and discipline that complements my academic and personal growth. It has taught me persistence, emotional awareness, and the joy of lifelong learning.
.jpeg)