» Address by Rakshanaa Pandian, Valedictorian at the SINDA Youth Awards 2024 on Saturday, 26 October 2024 at Marina Bay Sands

Guest of Honour, Mr Eric Chua, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Culture, Community and Youth & Social and Family Development;

SINDA Executive Committee and Youth Sub-Committee Members;

CEO,SINDA Mr Anbarasu Rajendran;

Guests, Fellow Award Recipients and Family Members;

Ladies and Gentlemen.

Introduction

My name is Rakshanaa Pandian, and I am honoured to be standing before you as this year’s valedictorian at the SINDA Youth Awards.

Firstly, my heartfelt congratulations to all my fellow award recipients. This celebration is a testament to our collective hard work, determination, and the support from those who stood by us.

My Journey

This moment, to me, reflects my journey and the unwavering support and belief from SINDA, my mentors, and my loved ones. I am grateful to be here before you today to share my story of growth, transformation, and leadership.

My journey with SINDA began in 2018 through the STEP tuition programme, when I was in Secondary 1. During the school holidays, I learned that SINDA was organising several activities, which led me to join the Guidance and Mentorship programme, also known as GAME. Joining a new programme felt intimidating. I wasn’t sure if I would fit in, or if I have the skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully.

I remember walking into my first session feeling nervous and wondering if I had made the right decision, but those feelings quickly faded. The supportive environment at GAME, along with the encouragement of mentors and peers, empowered me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace new challenges. Initially, I hesitated, thinking “am I ready for this?”. The opportunity allowed me to grow in ways that I had not anticipated. It became a turning point in my journey.

As I grew more involved with SINDA, I joined the Peer Leadership Programme. These experiences opened my eyes to the profound impact of mentorship. The peer leaders I met were a source of inspiration; they taught me that every voice matters and that true growth often comes from stepping into the unknown. Their unwavering support and guidance shaped my perspective, helping me recognise that I had unique strengths and insights to contribute.

By 2022, I had taken on the role of a peer leader and started mentoring others. While this was a milestone moment, I also learned some of the most important lessons of my life. I realised that vulnerability can be a strength, that listening is just as powerful as leading, and that our experiences – both good and bad – can help guide others. Watching my mentees grow and thrive was one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey.

As I continued to seek out leadership opportunities, the SINDA Youth Club became my second home. From participating in camps to organising events, I found my voice and learned to lead with empathy and purpose. These programmes taught me that leadership is not merely about taking charge; it is about uplifting others and helping them recognise their own potential.

Opportunities from Youth Programmes

Throughout our younger years, we often find ourselves at a crossroads, navigating the challenges of life while trying to carve out our own identities. But what if I told you that our experiences, no matter how big or small, have the power to transform not only our lives but also the lives of those around us? This means seeking out new experiences, embracing challenges, and engaging in meaningful conversations that broaden our understanding of the world around us.

This is why I fully embraced the youth programmes that SINDA offered. Through my involvement with SINDA, I have gained invaluable opportunities to participate in national-level discussions, which have enhanced my sense of responsibility and reinforced my commitment to civic engagement. As a facilitator for the National Youth Council’s ‘Beneath The Surface’ toolkit, I led conversations on race and religion, promoting understanding and unity among diverse youth. I also participated in the National Youth Dialogue, ‘Together, We Make Singapore,’ where I engaged in meaningful discussions on youth participation in policy-making.

I am thankful for these opportunities. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to making a difference, not only in my own life but in the lives of others. These have given me the confidence to represent my community and the conviction to be a voice for positive change.

Appreciating Loved Ones

Throughout my journey, there were times when I struggled to find my path, made mistakes, and questioned my potential. But when I look back, I am deeply grateful for the countless people who have supported me.

It wasn’t just about the programmes and opportunities – it was the confidence that SINDA had instilled in me. The warmth, acceptance, and unwavering belief from my mentors and peers made all the difference. Today, I stand before you not only shaped by my achievements but by the love, trust, and support of those who stood by me.

To my family, friends, and my fellow peers – thank you. Your encouragement and belief in me have been the foundation of my success, and I will forever be grateful for the role each of you has played in my journey.

Conclusion

Before I end, I would like to share a quote by Nelson Mandela that has always inspired me: “It always seems impossible until it is done.” This quote reminds me that no matter how daunting the challenges may seem, we can overcome them with perseverance, support, and belief in ourselves. No matter how difficult, every step of the journey brings us closer to our goals.

I hope that my story can inspire others, especially those who want to find solid footing or purpose in life. As I look forward, I am grateful to SINDA and everyone here for being a part of my journey. To my fellow peers – as we step into the next chapter of our lives, let us continue to uplift each other, serve our communities, and build bridges of compassion and understanding.