“I came from a lot of privilege – my family was well-to-do financially, and most of us are well-educated – so I know I need to give back in whatever way I can,” she said.
Volunteering was second nature to her. Besides her stint at the refugee camp, she gave free tuition as a teenager and, as an adult, is involved in events organised by other charities. She also offers corporate advice or mentorship.
While studying in London – for a Master’s degree in development studies in 2002 and then a PhD in international history in 2007 – she found time to contribute to local initiatives.
“I call myself a ‘serial volunteer’,” she chuckled. “Through volunteering, I get to hear a variety of voices and stories on the ground. That was crucial during my studies, and it’s important now, while running a charity.
“And stories are the core of Ray of Hope. When we know someone’s story, we humanise them. Stories make us know someone a lot better – and I don’t just mean the pity parties; I mean the kind that actually makes us relate to others as people.
“When you know their lives, their experiences, the ‘frivolous’ likes and dislikes, their pet peeves or quirks, it all points to the human they are.
“It’s why more genuine, less sensational, and more humane stories are sorely needed in this field. And though some may think running a crowdfunding platform is already as humane and altruistic as it gets, more can still be done to improve it.”
WHY STORIES BEHIND EACH CAMPAIGN ARE IMPORTANT
At Ray of Hope, the focus on people’s stories shows.
Founded in November 2012 by Singaporean businessman Danny Yong, the registered charity believes in dignity for its beneficiaries. Since 2019, it has raised over S$26 million, run dozens of campaigns, successfully funded 70 per cent of them, and supported more than 1,200 families in Singapore.
