Youth Initiatives Strengthen Community Bonds in Singapore

Efforts led by youth in Singapore are transforming local communities through initiatives focused on safety, support, and personal development. In the Lengkok Bahru neighbourhood, 11-year-old Rafieq Sahin Rafizal has taken the lead in establishing a patrol group aimed at enhancing community safety. This “emergency response team,” which Rafieq started with friends, consists of children aged 10 to 13, many of whom live in one- and two-room public rental flats.

Each day after school, these children don green hats and matching vests before spreading out across six blocks to monitor for hazards. “We look out for personal mobility devices blocking the corridors, fire hazards and sharp objects,” Rafieq explained. They communicate using walkie-talkies, allowing them to report potential dangers efficiently. The initiative is supported by Rafieq’s mother, Marlina Yased, who has lived in the area for 15 years and also runs a community fridge for residents facing food insecurity.

Rafieq’s motivation stems from a desire to contribute positively to his community after learning about local tragedies, such as house fires and elderly residents passing away alone. “My son has grown up around the work that I’ve done,” said Ms. Marlina. “He has that empathy in him already and wants to bond with his friends.” This initiative is just one example of how children in underprivileged communities are stepping up to make a difference.

Youth-Led Clubs Promote Creativity and Responsibility

The impact of youth-led initiatives extends beyond Lengkok Bahru. At the Tak Takut Kids Club in Boon Lay, children aged seven to 14 engage in various activities, including cooking, sports, and arts performances. This drop-in space, run by the non-profit organization 3Pumpkins, fosters a sense of community and encourages older members to volunteer.

For instance, 16-year-old Tan Ya Xuan has grown from a participant to a youth volunteer and part-time worker at the club. She describes her experience caring for younger children as “fun and fulfilling.” Experts note that such ground-up initiatives are vital for children dealing with financial pressures or long hours without adult supervision. These activities help them discover strengths and develop a sense of self-worth.

In another example, 13-year-old Muhammad Rizqizil Rosmaini leads a dance club at the Tak Takut Kids Club, organizing weekly talent shows that allow children to perform without fear of judgment. “A lot of them didn’t have the confidence to do it,” Ya Xuan said, “but we work with them and they slowly build the confidence to perform.”

Sports Initiatives Build Confidence and Community

In the Yio Chu Kang area, children from public rental flats gather weekly to play sepak takraw, a traditional sport. This initiative is largely self-organized, with some participants also engaged in programs run by youth charity Impart. The charity has reached out to 113 youths aged 13 to 24, aiming to empower them through mentorship and skill-building.

Mr. Narasimman Tivasiha Mani, co-founder of Impart, emphasized that these youth-led programs offer more than traditional interventions. They allow young people to mentor each other and navigate their challenges together. “Outside the court, they can be very playful, but the moment they step in, they become focused and driven,” said community worker Shariffah Nureza Alsagoff.

The benefits of these initiatives extend to personal development as well. Muhammad Rez’ky Razis, 18, shared how playing sepak takraw has bolstered his confidence and motivated him to advocate for his peers. “Everyone has their own roles,” he said. “Sometimes, if someone doesn’t have enough money to get to the training spot, we pool our resources so that everyone can come.”

The dedication displayed by these youths is evident, as they have become finalists in various competitions, including the Sport Singapore’s Pesta Sukan and the SportCares Sepak Takraw Invitational Tournament. Their achievements reflect their hard work and commitment to community engagement.

Education Minister Desmond Lee highlighted the importance of these initiatives, stating that when youths from vulnerable backgrounds take action, they gain a sense of purpose and confidence. “The residents they serve often feel a stronger sense of trust and connection,” he noted.

As the emergency response team in Lengkok Bahru completes their patrols, they report issues such as littering and vandalism, contributing to the overall well-being of their neighbourhood. Their involvement has instilled a sense of pride and ownership in the community. Eleven-year-old Nur Ittizaan Muhammad Redzuan expressed her feelings after her first patrol: “I felt happy, excited, tired.”

Community workers stress the significance of these youth-led initiatives in building resilience among children facing various challenges. While a single sports group or community club cannot solve all the issues these youths encounter, they represent a beacon of hope and an opportunity for growth.

Experts call for continued support to ensure underprivileged youths have access to opportunities that foster their community spirit. This includes addressing barriers such as competition fees in sports, which often limit participation.

Community members, local businesses, and government agencies can play pivotal roles in supporting these initiatives. Practical contributions, such as providing resources for training or funding community projects, can enhance the impact of these youth-led efforts.

Rafieq hopes to expand the emergency response team’s activities, dreaming of visiting an army camp or meeting with police officers to learn more about community safety. As he and his peers patrol their neighbourhood, they embody a new generation of community leaders dedicated to fostering a safe and caring environment.

Ms. Marlina expressed pride in her son’s efforts, stating, “When they hold their walkie-talkies, they really feel like they are the first responders in the community.” Their commitment not only strengthens community ties but also serves as an inspiration for others to engage and contribute positively to society.