Small Actions, Big Ripples: Empowering Youths to Rewrite Their Stories at Youth For Change 2026

March was like a testament to the power of values in action. At Make The Change, we had an eventful March filled with programs that are not just numbers -- but representing our commitments and beliefs in making positive changes to the community. In celebration of the B Corp Month, we kicked off our Youth For Change Workshop 2026. Powered by the National Youth Council (NYC), this year's YFC focused with the theme on "Empowered Voices: Youth-led Solutions for Marginalized Communities".

Empowerment is often viewed through many lenses—from psychological resilience to digital literacy. In the context of social change, we often focus on the "volume" of a voice in a crowded room. However, true empowerment isn't just about being the loudest; it’s about the freedom to share ideas and the passion to embark on an adventure.

Through three runs of our Youth For Change Workshop, Make The Change brought together a powerful lineup of speakers who didn't just talk about change -- they live it. On 17th March, we had a representative from Youth Guidance Outreach Services (YGOS), Goh Boon Siong, a dedicated social worker who believes that every individual has the power to rewrite our own future.

Sharing more on his personal story, Boon was once considered as a 'troubled youth'' who had a difficult academic journey. He shared that he struggled significantly with his O-Levels, failing nearly every core subject—a moment he once thought would define him. But that all had changed and pivot his path of struggle to a career of service for others, with the help of one adult who did not give up on him. Boon was and still is grateful for that one English Teacher who believed in him when he felt lost as a teenager, and even stayed in touch with her till this day.

Pieces of Wisdom from Boon's Sharing 🪄💬

1. The Ripple Effect

   Using the analogy of skipping stones, Boon shared that change doesn't need to be massive to be meaningful. A single, small action creates ripples that spread further than we can see. You don't need a grand plan to succeed; you just need the courage to start.
   

2. Big change starts with small actions around you

   In the field of social work, everyone started off with wanting to make change and to give back to the community. Boon noted that as youths, we can start making change differently through the time and love we give our families.
   

3. Everyone has the chance to rewrite your story

   Boon reminded us that even if a previous chapter of our life ever feels like a failure, the story isn't over yet. After all, we hold the pen that rewrites our future. The question is -- What story will you write?
   

Boon featured in Youth For Change Workshop 2026 representing Youth Guidance Outreach Services (YGOS), an organization that is missioned to provide hope for youth-at-risks and their families through caring relationships, and make available developmental opportunities for them.

With its roots dating back to 1983, YGOS worked with troubled youths and advocating for youth-at-risks under Youth Guidance, a ministry department of Singapore Youth for Christ (SYFC). YGOS then was registered as an independent entity in 1996 and officially became a member of the National Council of Social Services (NCSS) in 1997.YGOS operates across Singapore, from their Woodlands Youth Centre all the way to its newest Reformative Training Centre in the east. They support youths at every stage, whether if they are in school, navigating the juvenile justice system, or seeking a second chance after rehabilitation.

Change doesn't happen in a blink of an eye, it starts with small actions and safe spaces. If you're ever looking for a place to have someone to be a listening ear, or to find someone who believes in your potential, feel free to visit YGOS Ang Mo Kio Youth Centre at Block 125.

Huge thanks to Boon for sharing his story with our youth participants at the Youth For Change Workshop 2026 and reminding us that hope is always within reach. 🌟💪