the journey

I felt super nervous as the emcee called my name and as I slowly made my way up the stage to the President on the day of the award ceremony. It truly marked the end of the whole 2 and a half year journey we've spent on the NYAA Gold award.

It sure has impacted me so much, beyond that gold badge. The experiences shared with the 8, the struggles and the stresses of completion, juggling the commitment amongst those at school, it was truly memorable. It was really not an easy task, possibly the greatest commitment I have ever taken, but I'm glad Mr Khoo and the team decided to take it up. It was this award, that pushed me to do things I wouldn't otherwise imagine. It was also this award, that opened new possibilites, that I was able to see things and do things, to realise that I can actually have an genuine impact on others, to realise that we can always do better.

I thought to be different from the rest, I should just briefly touch on my thoughts about each of the sections

I will always recall the Vietnam trip, which was really a big step I took in my life. Somehow I managed to convince my parents to let me go, and I was so glad I did. The adventurous journey segment helped me discover my capacity and interest for the outdoors, and spurred me on to join the Outdoor Activities Club in college. Trekking the treacherous terrains of Sapa really pushed me to my mental and physical limits, and it was then where I realised how important the process of pursuing this award was beyond its prestige and the honour of receiving the badge.

We completed the physical recreation segment first. All I could say is that we are still kayaking now! and quite light the feeling of it too!

Service at MPFSC exposed us to the realities in a modern society in Singapore where we assumed nobody would ever be left behind. Even a place like Marine Parade can be home to elderlies who are lonely or cannot fend for themselves. I actually felt they were benefitting and really appreciating the little help we can give.

Guitar was initially a nightmare as we were really clueless about the instrument. Then we had to commit an entire 18 months to it. classes can be stressful if we went unprepared, but were really useful as we can at least play something decent now. And we were so worried about this section that we cannot complete it in time but we did.

But soon I saw the award beyond the end product, but really understood the meaning behind it. It was the journey, the thought process and the obstacles which we may have fallen and grown stronger from. An achievement is a feat, is winning yourself, and conquering your obstacles and fears, not forgetting the need to stay committed to your causes.

Special mention to Mr Khoo, who has guided us along all this while. I have learnt so much more from you, you always provided the deepest insights and a refreshing view point to things, and it's so enjoyable to just converse with you for hours! Without you, none of this would be even possible. And not forgetting the fellas, Zhan Liang, Jiawei, Seth, Edmund, Thomas, Boon Kiat and Joseph: thank you so much for sticking through with me. Well there were times we really never give chance and pushed each other around, but we still managed to get the job done. Glad to have experienced this with you, and its an accomplishment we can all be proud of!

That's about all I have to share, last words are that the NYAA Gold is on process, the award itself is just a minor incentive, or reward that shouldn't be placed as the priority. Shouldn't actually rush to complete it by JC, portfolio would still reflect that you are pursuing it even before you have gotten it, main thing is to experience it fully, and really to the best of this award, and you are sure to receive a whole lot more in return!