Youth should be brave in acting on aspirations: Minister Edwin Tong’s Youth Month 2022 message

In celebration of Youth Month, which falls in July, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong delivered a message on Youth Day (Sunday, Jul 3). 

In his message, which was posted on the National Youth Council’s social media platforms in a minute-long video, Mr Tong encouraged youth to seize the opportunity to take part in a range of activities that will take place throughout July. 

“Use this time to discover your passions. Be brave in acting on your aspirations,” said Mr Tong. 

“It is you, our youths, who will carry Singapore forward. Together, we can create a home where we care for one another, and where we have a fair shot at our dreams.” 

The Minister also highlighted the work of several Singaporean youths that have had a positive impact on their fellow countrymen. 

From the student leaders from the Inter-University Network who are working to improve the mental wellbeing of undergraduates, to NYC council member Dr Hamid Razak who has created opportunities for youths to be mentored, Mr Tong shared his pride at how youths have adapted to changing situations. 

“This year, we acknowledge your resilience and tenacity in emerging Stronger Than Ever from the pandemic. I am proud of how our youths have adapted to changing situations, yet never hesitating to put others first, and stepping up to help Singapore in your own ways,” Mr Tong said. 

He added that the National Youth Council will share more of such “remarkable” stories throughout the month. 

READ: Win Grab vouchers, Mighty Jaxx figurines on Youthopia in July

This was Mr Tong’s Youth Month message in full: 

Happy Youth Month! July is when we recognise and celebrate the youths of Singapore, so this message is dedicated to you, our youths. 

This year, we acknowledge your resilience and tenacity in emerging Stronger Than Ever from the pandemic.

I am proud of how our youths have adapted to changing situations, yet never hesitating to put others first, and stepping up to help Singapore in your own ways.

Some, like student leaders from the Inter-University Network, are working to improve the mental wellbeing of undergraduates in universities. They have recommended for more mental health support and measures to reduce stress on campuses. 

Others, like Dr Hamid Razak, a National Youth Council member, are creating opportunities for youths to be mentored based on their individual needs, so they can grow confidently in their chosen areas.

Youth Corps Leader Chan Ming Hui helped persons with disabilities discover and express their emotions as a volunteer. Now, he is studying to be a medical social worker and is committed to care for society’s vulnerable.

Throughout July, the National Youth Council will be sharing more of such remarkable stories.

There will be a range of activities lined up too. From industry talks on careers in the music industry, to programmes for youths to lead ground-up initiatives.

I encourage you to seize these opportunities, or to organise your own activities.

Use this time to discover your passions. Be brave in acting on your aspirations. It is you, our youths, who will carry Singapore forward.

Together, we can create a home where we care for one another, and where we have a fair shot at our dreams.