Story Contributed by Adrian, Community Worker
Each year, the United World College (UWC) partners with Beyond in a programme that brings their students on a Learning Journey into one of the neighbourhoods we serve. The intention is to give these students an opportunity to connect on a more intimate level with the community they often support as volunteers in our learning programme.
This time, however, instead of the visit being led by Beyond staff, two Bukit Ho Swee youths – *14-year-old Zak and 15-year old Amir – stepped forward to be their guides. Inspired by one of their older brothers, a dedicated youth volunteer, the two best friends decided it was their turn to give back. The boys took on the challenge with some trepidation and nervous excitement.
The Learning Journey was a free-wheeling affair, without a predetermined route or rehearsed lines – just two friends sharing their daily lives with a group eager to listen. They led the UWC students through their neighbourhood – the futsal and sepak takraw court where they trained with friends, the multi-purpose hall where children played “kampong” games, and even the home of a Neighbourhood Leader for a warm welcome and a simple meal. At each stop, the boys offered glimpses into their world, revealing not only the physical spaces but the stories and people that made these places meaningful.
When they reached the pondok (a small, worn shelter) near the playground, Zak hesitated, suddenly feeling self-conscious. He glanced at the simple structure, noticing the peeling paint and litter nearby. He mumbled, “So, this is where we meet after school. We come here to play or just… you know, hang out.” He trailed off, embarrassed.
One of the UWC students stepped closer to the ramshackle structure, and her face lit up. “This place is such a vibe!” she said warmly, taking in the surroundings. “My friends and I have a spot like this at the park. It’s our special hangout!”
Zak’s face softened, the embarrassment of earlier giving way to a sense of acceptance. “Yeah,” he said, a bit more confidently now. “This is our special spot.”
Other UWC students chimed in, sharing stories of their favourite hangouts in Singapore—cafes, parks, and quiet corners that felt like home in a foreign land. The differences that had seemed pronounced at the start began to soften as conversations turned to familiar topics: school pressures, friendships, and dreams for the future. Despite their varied backgrounds, they realized that the experiences of growing up – figuring out who they were and what mattered to them – bound them together.
Gradually, Zak and Amir found themselves opening up more, encouraged by the genuine curiosity of their guests. Their initial hesitation gave way to confidence, knowing that the students weren’t just observing but truly connecting. It felt comfortable and natural, like they were simply talking with friends.
By the end of the day, the UWC students saw a neighbourhood that thrived on community spirit, camaraderie and resilience. And Zak and Amir, our youths from Bukit Ho Swee, discovered their own capacity to lead and connect with people from different walks of life. As the tour ended, Amir expressed a simple wish: “It would have been nice to have more time,” he said, glancing at Zak who nodded in agreement. “There’s a lot more we could show.”
As they parted ways, it felt less like a farewell between ‘visitors’ and ‘hosts’ and more like the end of a journey shared by friends. Perhaps one of many more to come.
*Not their real names
Beyond facilitates opportunities for different communities to get to know each other, to understand and appreciate what connects us all. If you’d like to be involved in our mission to help build a nurturing, compassionate, inclusive society, get in touch with us at editorial@beyond.org.sg or on our social media pages.
