PORTFOLIO
Initiative
"Taking initiative means being aware of the people and situations around me, thinking about what can be done, and stepping forward to help without always waiting to be told. It also means acting responsibly to help others and improve situations."
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Classroom Clean-Up (After School)
Description
While waiting after school for our parents, there was usually around 20 minutes before parents were allowed to enter the foyer for pick-up. During this time, I noticed that the classroom was often left messy after lessons. Instead of waiting for teachers to remind us, I suggested to a few classmates who were also waiting, to clean up the classroom together. We started by arranging tables, chairs, sweeping the floor, and tidying the classroom before our parents arrive. After some time, it slowly became something we would do regularly, and gradually more classmates started joining in as well.
Outcome
This experience taught me that taking initiative can start from small actions. I also realised that when someone takes the first step, it can encourage others to do the same and create a more caring and responsible environment.
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Guiding & Supporting Classmates
Description
I supported three classmates who needed help with Mathematics and English after teachers assigned me to sit beside them during lessons during Primary 5. I guided them by explaining concepts in simpler steps, going through questions patiently, and encouraging them whenever they were unsure of their work. At times, I also used part of my recess when I did not have prefect duty to help them with difficult Mathematics problem sums and revise work that they did not understand well.
Outcome
Over time, they became more confident in their work and were more willing to participate during lessons. They were also very grateful and even gave me small handmade gifts and notes as tokens of appreciation.
Receiving the handmade gifts made me feel touched and encouraged because I did not expect anything in return for helping them. It reminded me that even small acts of support and encouragement can positively impact others more than I realised.
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Mission Trip to Bintan
Description
I took part in a mission trip to an orphanage in Bintan, Indonesia, where I spent time interacting with the children through games, drawing activities, and simple conversations. Although we could not communicate well because of language differences, we still managed to bond through games, drawings, and using a translator app on mobile phones. During the trip, I also learnt more about respecting different cultures and personal backgrounds. For example, I learnt that some children were uncomfortable with others patting their heads because it was seen as a caring action usually done by parents. This made me become more aware of how even small actions or gestures can affect others emotionally and taught me the importance of being respectful and sensitive towards others’ feelings.
Outcome
During the trip, I also learnt to be more sensitive towards different cultures and personal backgrounds. I realised that even small actions or gestures can affect how others feel, which taught me the importance of showing respect, empathy, and understanding when interacting with others.
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Community Food Distribution Initiative
Description
I helped to pack and distribute food to elderly individuals, many of whom were living alone and had silver hair. While giving out the food, I also talked to some of them and listened to their stories. Through this experience, I realised that some elderly people spend a lot of time alone and may not have much support around them.
Although the food packs were simple, I felt that small actions like talking to them politely, greeting them warmly, and showing care could make them feel happier and less lonely.