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IMPACT 0563: DESIGNING A GAME ABOUT EARTH’S BIODIVERSITY

Youth Action Challenge (YAC) is a platform for youth to provide solutions that tackle the issues we are concerned about. Since October 2021, over 80 teams and more than 310 youths have undertaken the YAC Season 3 journey.

Lin Kai Hong, 22, is currently serving his National Service with the Singapore Police Force. As a graduate from Nanyang Polytechnic with a Diploma in Industrial Design, he is passionate about keeping Singapore’s streets and parks clean. His project “Earthtrek”, is a card game that aims to educate players on the biodiversity in Singapore. He hopes to encouragee people to show more love towards the environment and biodiversity of Planet Earth.

Today, he shares more about the EarthTrek project that he was a part of in the recent YAC!

What was your role within your YAC project?

I was one of the designers to come up with “EarthTrek”, a card game that aims to educate players on the biodiversity of Singapore.

What motivated you to join YAC?

I joined YAC to improve my design skills and most importantly, push myself to be a better version of me. In the past, I used to be a game addict and a self-proclaimed “lazy bum”. However, things took a turn after I failed my Final Year Project (FYP) and graduated with a low GPA.

I was determined to change my mentality. I started by reading self-improvement books and watching videos on developing a growth mindset, which have taught me to be uncomfortable and take up new challenges. Uncomfortable situations and challenges are things that will make you grow. Initially, I wasn’t very sure about joining YAC as I was scared. However, with the encouragement from a fellow friend, an ex-YAC participant, I chose to face my fears, joining YAC with the intention to be a better person than before and to leave a positive impact on society.

Another reason for joining YAC would be my love for the environment. This love was developed from my hobby, cycling, and has only grown the more I discover hidden nature gems in Singapore. I wish more people could see how beautiful nature is and appreciate it.

Can you share with us your experience with your YAC project?

It was challenging as I had to get out of my comfort zone frequently. For example, when teammates disagreed with my opinions, I had to hold my ground and defend my opinions with facts.

It was also eye-opening as I got to watch many amazing presentations from other teams who had many great ideas. The Zoom workshops provided helped me gain many new insights.

What are some challenges you faced while working on your YAC project?

As I’m serving my Police full-time National Serviceman (PNSF), time has definitely been a problem as I am only free during the weekends and have to make good use of my time, not only for my YAC project, but also for self-care and quality time with my loved ones.

Could you share more on how your project has a positive impact?

My project, EarthTrek, is a card game that will leave a positive impact on society in the long-run by getting more people more interested in Planet Earth and its biodiversity. As this happens, I hope it will increase volunteer rates for causes concerning the environment.

Were there any key takeaways or learning points from your time with YAC?

I learnt that making connections with people can help in your career/business as you can seek help and advice from those who work in the fields you are unfamiliar with.

This article was published on May 7, 2022