400 youths commemorate as Youth Corps Leaders at ceremony

Four hundred youths were commemorated as Youth Corps Singapore leaders at a ceremony on Saturday (Jan 22). 

The Youth Corps Leader Programme (YCLP) Commencement Ceremony 2022 saw 103 youths presented with certificates by President Halimah Yacob at the Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre. The other 297 youth were commemorated online.

The YCLP involved volunteer leaders-in-training aged 17 to 25 who conceptualised and implemented projects to address social issues in the local community in partnership with external organisations. 

Ever since COVID-19 began, many projects had to be adjusted to be conducted online for everyone’s health and safety. As such, there were many difficulties that both volunteers and the community had to overcome together.

“The past two years have been challenging for everyone, with COVID-19 causing disruption to community service and volunteering operations. For the community in need, this double whammy causes even more difficulties,” said Mdm Halimah in her speech.  

“Youth Corps quickly adjusted its programmes with new and innovative approaches, so that our youths could continue volunteering while adhering to safe management measures.”

“Through its efforts, Youth Corps has kept the spirit of volunteerism high, and continues to rally others to serve amidst these uncertain times.”

One of the projects highlighted at the ceremony was KidsCount, a numeracy programme that targeted lower primary students from low-income households. 

The project was in partnership across different locales across Singapore, enabling the volunteers to hone their leadership skills while providing more volunteering opportunities within the community for youths.

Hannah Lee, who was a part of KidsCount, said: “Volunteering has allowed me to gain new perspectives while interacting with people from different backgrounds. The experience made me feel thankful for what I have.”

President Halimah added that she hopes the 103 youths will continue to do more for the community. 

“This commencement marks the beginning of your journey,” she said.

“Let us inspire collective action with other youths. Together, we can build a cohesive society, a caring people and a confident nation.”

If you’re interested in volunteering with the Youth Corps Singapore, you can check out opportunities on their website here.