How do you move from caring about a social issue to actually creating meaningful change? That was the question at the heart of a recent learning session hosted by Make The Change for students from the SMU Global Summer School programme. During their visit, students heard from Make The Change CEO Michelle Lim and Community Development & Impact Director Pedro Aguirre about what it means to build a purpose-driven organisation, how social entrepreneurship works in practice, and why Theory of Change matters when designing programmes, initiatives, and solutions for real-world problems. The session gave students a practical introduction to social entrepreneurship, impact design, and changemaking frameworks that can help turn good intentions into meaningful action. Learning about social entrepreneurship in Singapore At Make The Change, we often talk about social entrepreneurship not just as starting a business with a mission, but as a way of thinking and working. Social entrepreneurship is about identifying a real problem, understanding the people affected by it, and building solutions that create positive social impact. It requires more than creativity or passion alone. It also requires empathy, systems thinking, reflection, and a clear understanding of the outcomes you are trying to create. During the session, Michelle and Pedro introduced students to Make The Change as a Singapore-based social enterprise working across education, youth development, digital inclusion, community impact, and purpose-driven innovation. Students learned how our work spans workshops, learning journeys, youth programmes, digital skills initiatives, and creative projects designed to equip people with the tools to contribute to society in meaningful ways. For students exploring the role of business, innovation, and leadership in society, the session offered a real-world example of how a social enterprise can combine purpose with practical action. Why Theory of Change matters in social impact work A key focus of the session was Theory of Change. Theory of Change is a framework that helps organisations, educators, and changemakers think clearly about how change happens. Instead of only asking, “What activity should we run?” it asks a more important set of questions: What problem are we trying to solve? Who are we trying to support? What change do we hope to create? What needs to happen for that change to become possible? How will we know whether our work is making a difference? At Make The Change, Theory of Change is an important part of how we design and evaluate our work. It helps us stay focused on the real problem, not just run activities for the sake of it. It supports us in designing programmes with purpose, connecting learning to real-world outcomes, and making decisions about what to prioritise. It also helps us measure impact in ways that go beyond attendance numbers or satisfaction scores alone. This matters because in social impact education and community development, not everything important can be reduced to a single metric. Some of the most meaningful outcomes show up through stories, observations, learner reflections, behaviour shifts, confidence, participation, and examples of action over time. From workshops to meaningful outcomes One of the ideas we explored with the SMU students was that two activities can look very similar on the surface, but lead to very different outcomes depending on how intentionally they are designed. A workshop can be engaging and enjoyable, but if it is not connected to a clear purpose, it may not lead to deeper learning or meaningful impact. A Theory of Change helps turn an activity into an intentional pathway for change. For example, a programme about sustainability, inclusion, digital wellbeing, or youth leadership should not only ask whether students enjoyed it. It should also consider what they understood more deeply, what skills they developed, what mindsets shifted, and what action they are now more prepared to take. This is one of the reasons Make The Change integrates changemaker skills, reflection, and real-world relevance into our programmes. We want learning experiences to be memorable, but also meaningful. A hands-on Theory of Change activity for students To help students apply the ideas from the session, they participated in a group activity in which they were challenged to build their own mini Theory of Change. Working in small groups, students selected a cause and began mapping out a possible pathway for change. The themes included: Student mental wellbeing Inclusion on campus Sustainability on campus Digital wellbeing Career readiness for vulnerable youth This activity pushed students to think beyond broad statements like “we want to help” or “this issue matters.” Instead, they had to consider the underlying problem, the people affected, the outcomes they hoped to achieve, and the actions that could move that change forward. In doing so, they practised several important future-ready and changemaker skills: empathy, critical thinking, collaboration, systems thinking, communication, and problem framing. Building changemakers through social entrepreneurship education At Make The Change, we believe many young people want to make a difference, but they often need the right environment, tools, and support to turn that motivation into action. That is why we care deeply about creating learning experiences that go beyond awareness. We want participants to leave with clearer thinking, stronger skills, and a better understanding of how change can actually happen. For the SMU Global Summer School students, this session was not only about understanding Make The Change as an organisation. It was also an invitation to think more deeply about their own role in creating change, whether in business, education, policy, community work, or entrepreneurship. When students understand both social entrepreneurship and Theory of Change, they are better equipped to move from ideas to action, and from action to impact. Why universities and schools are exploring Theory of Change and changemaking Across schools, universities, and youth programmes, there is growing interest in helping students become more thoughtful problem-solvers and more socially conscious leaders. Frameworks like Theory of Change are useful because they help learners connect classroom ideas to community realities. They encourage students to ask better questions, think in systems, and understand that impact is not only about doing something, but about understanding what that action is meant to change. For institutions looking to develop students’ leadership, social innovation, and civic engagement skills, this kind of learning can be a powerful complement to academic study. Thank you to SMU Global Summer School We are grateful to the students and organisers from the SMU Global Summer School programme for visiting Make The Change and spending time with our team. It was a pleasure to share our work, our thinking, and our approach to social entrepreneurship and impact design. We hope the session gave students useful tools for thinking more intentionally about social change, and that it sparked new ideas about how they can contribute in their own communities and future careers. Looking for a social entrepreneurship workshop or learning journey in Singapore? Make The Change runs workshops, talks, learning journeys, and educational programmes on topics such as: Social entrepreneurship Theory of Change and Impact Design Changemaker skills and youth leadership Sustainability and community impact Digital storytelling and advocacy Future-ready skills and social innovation If your school, university, or organisation is looking for a social entrepreneurship workshop in Singapore, a Theory of Change learning session, or a student changemaker programme, we’d love to explore how we can support you. Get in touch with Make The Change to design a learning experience that helps students connect ideas, action, and impact.

In a fast-paced world that frequently demands a linear, flawless trajectory toward success, choosing an unconventional path can feel like taking a massive risk. It is often through navigating unexpected disruptions and stepping far outside of our comfort zones, that the most profound change-making journeys are born. Earlier in March 2026, Make The Change had the privilege of inviting an insightful sharing session from Mr Imran Mean, the resilient 25-year-old founder of Signaturesofimran Group International and IM Volunteers Network (IMVN) at our Youth For Change Workshop 2026. Rather than recounting a predictable corporate climb, Imran shared a deeply personal, raw, and inspiring story defined by survival, entrepreneurial grit, and the courage to rewrite his own narrative. From School Struggles to Business Instincts: Finding Grounding in Chaos 💡🔥 As a young business pioneer himself, Imran didn't have an easy start. He faced severe challenges back in his secondary school days, and he had to be held back an academic year by an order from the Ministry of Education. Compounding the academic struggles, his family was experiencing severe financial instability after moving from Johor Bahru back to Singapore with zero assets, forcing them to stay in a shelter home before moving to a rental flat in Woodlands. However, it was precisely within all the challenges that his entrepreneurial spark ignited in Secondary 3. At just 16 years old, Imran launched Imran Snacks, selling viral street food like fried Oreos and corn dogs to his peers in school. When his school's discipline master halted his venture to force a focus on his N-Level Examinations, Imran chose to adapt and grow rather than stop. Upon moving onto his time at ITE, he pivoted entirely — shifting from physical products to a brilliant commission-based service brokerage model, proving that setbacks are often just setup points for smarter strategies. Steering Your Own Ship: Erasing Stigmas and Championing Second Chances 🌟 Imran's business instincts quickly expanded. Established in July 2018, the Signaturesofimran Group International grew to encompass over nine diverse brands operating across Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. But driven by a desire for a deeper and meaningful purpose, Imran chose to steer his ship toward a major social impact mission — which was founding the IM Volunteers Network (IMVN), an entirely youth-volunteer-led NGO. The network rapidly established specialized wings to address overlooked regional crises across the three Southeast-Asian countries: Singapore (IMVN SG) 🇸🇬 Focuses primarily on supporting youth-at-risks and fostering family development to those who are in need. Malaysia (IMVN MY) 🇲🇾 Launched actively around June 2023, the team focuses heavily on supporting the homeless community in Johor Bahru. Activities include providing feel haircuts, distributions of food (collaborating with major brands like KFC Malaysia), and the "Shop What You Want" initiative where beneficiaries are given monetary allowances to buy what they actually need. Their impactful work has recently earned them an official award from the Chief Minister of Johor, Datuk Onn Hafiz. Indonesia (IMVN ID) 🇮🇩 Focuses heavily on Batam, specifically aiding communities in Rumah Buluh (wooden stilt house villages) who face sudden displacement and homelessness due to sudden government demolitions. To scale this massive operational footprint, Imran made the conscious choice to look past systemic biases and perspectives. He intentionally built an alliance with unconventional community groups — including local biker networks, van groups, and wrestling communities such as GrappleMax — offering individuals from the felony community with a genuine pathway to give back. Rejecting social labels, Imran actively leaned on their logistics, motor vehicles, and determination to deliver critical food rations directly to needy families, cementing his deep belief in human potential and second chances. "I'm here not to support whatever you have done in the past, but I believe in second chances. If they have the vehicles and the drive to deliver food packs to families in need, why shouldn't we support them?" Charting New Horizons: The Non-Linear Road to Impact 🌍 Imran is far from finished charting his non-linear path. Looking to the immediate future, IM Volunteer Network is gearing up to pilot their next international chapter : IMVN Brunei 🇧🇳! The mission will focus heavily on improving community development and providing essential aid to the residents living within the unique, yet heavily isolated offshore water villages (Rumah Air). In a fast-changing world where uncertainty is often the only constant, Imran's journey serves as a living reminder that the non-linear path is frequently the most rewarding. By stepping past the fear of failure and transforming personal challenges into shared purpose, we can all take complete ownership of our own narratives and rewrite what it truly means to make a lasting change. We want to extend our deepest gratitude to Imran for his generosity in sharing his time, his vulnerabilities, and the invaluable lessons from his non-linear path. His story reminds us that our past detours do not define our destination — they simply give us the unique perspective needed to build a more empathetic future.

At Make The Change, we believe technology is most powerful when it helps young people not only create, but also connect, communicate, and make a positive impact in the world around them. That was the spirit behind our recent Technology & Innovation Discovery Session at St Anthony’s Canossian Secondary, where we engaged Lower Secondary students as part of the school’s EPIC (Exploring Pathways, Interests and Careers) Day 2026. Over two one-hour sessions, students stepped into the world of augmented reality (AR) and explored how technology can create immersive experiences, solve real-world problems, and drive meaningful social impact. More Than Just a Tech Demo The session, titled “Creating Experiences, Driving Social Impact”, was designed to give students a glimpse into the possibilities of the digital world while also helping them see how creativity, innovation, and purpose can come together in future careers. We began by sharing Pedro Aguirre’s personal journey into education, creativity, and social entrepreneurship, and how Make The Change uses technology to design learning experiences that empower young people and communities. From there, students were introduced to the growing role of AR across industries, including education and retail, museums, digital marketing, and interactive storytelling. The goal was not simply to show students what AR is, but to help them understand how technology can be used to create experiences that are engaging, meaningful, and relevant to people’s lives. Technology with Purpose One of the key messages we wanted students to take away was that innovation is not only about building new tools. It is about using those tools with intention. During the session, we explored how technology and creativity can support causes that matter, whether by making learning more interactive, creating content that raises awareness, designing more accessible experiences, or using digital storytelling to inspire action on sustainability and community issues. This is also what makes Make The Change’s approach different. We do not see technology as an end in itself. We see it as a platform for expression, empathy, collaboration, and positive action. Hands-On with Augmented Reality Of course, no AR session would be complete without students having the chance to try it for themselves. In the hands-on segment, students used iPads to experiment with AR tools and create their own digital experiences. Even within a limited time frame, it was exciting to see how quickly they embraced the challenge, explored the technology, and began turning their ideas into something visual and interactive. Some students focused on playful and creative concepts, while others thought about how AR could be used to communicate messages, tell stories, or create more engaging experiences for others. What stood out most was their willingness to experiment and their confidence in trying something new. We were especially encouraged by the quality of the ideas students produced in such a short session. A selection of their work has been uploaded to our Padlet showcase, and it is always rewarding to see how quickly young people can move from curiosity to creation when given the right tools and encouragement. Why These Experiences Matter Discovery sessions like this are not about turning every student into a programmer or AR designer. They are about helping young people see that the future of work is not limited to traditional job titles or linear pathways. AR opens up conversations about a wide range of careers and possibilities, from UX/UI design, content creation, app development, and digital marketing to creative technology, product design, and social entrepreneurship. More importantly, it helps students understand that future-ready careers will increasingly require a blend of creativity, digital literacy, collaboration, and problem-solving. When students are given the chance to experience emerging technologies in a hands-on and purposeful way, they begin to see that they, too, can be creators, innovators, and changemakers. Looking Ahead We are grateful to St Anthony’s Canossian Secondary for the opportunity to be part of EPIC Day 2026 and to share this learning journey with their students. It was a joy to see students engage so openly with the ideas, ask thoughtful questions, and produce such creative AR work in such a short time. Moments like these remind us why exposure matters. Sometimes all it takes is one session, one tool, or one spark of curiosity to help a young person see a new possibility for themselves. At Make The Change, we remain committed to creating learning experiences that help young people not only understand technology but also use it with purpose, imagination, and heart. If your school is looking to introduce students to AR, digital creativity, future-ready skills, or innovation for social impact, we’d love to explore how we can support your learners.

At Make The Change, we have always believed that business should create positive change, not only for customers, but also for employees, communities, and the environment. That belief is one of the reasons we chose to become a Certified B Corporation. Attending the B Lab Asia Summit 2026 reminded us that certification is not the destination. It is part of an ongoing commitment to learn, improve, and collaborate with a global community of organisations that believe business can be a force for good. More Than a Conference The B Lab Asia Summit brought together businesses, social enterprises, sustainability leaders, investors, and changemakers from across the region. While every session offered valuable insights, one theme stood out throughout the event: Real impact is created through continuous improvement and collaboration. Across industries and countries, organisations shared both their successes and their challenges with remarkable openness. Rather than competing, participants were learning from one another, demonstrating the collaborative spirit that makes the B Corp community unique. Why This Matters to Make The Change As a social enterprise, our mission extends beyond delivering programmes. We exist to empower young people with the skills, confidence, and mindset to become changemakers while helping organisations create meaningful social impact. The conversations at the summit reinforced several principles that guide our work every day. Collaboration Accelerates Impact No single organisation can solve today’s social and environmental challenges alone. Whether supporting schools, businesses, community organisations, or youth, meaningful change happens when people come together to share ideas, experiences, and resources. The B Corp community is a powerful example of what can be achieved through collaboration. Measuring What Matters One of the defining strengths of the B Corp framework is its emphasis on accountability. By measuring impact across governance, workers, community, customers, and the environment, organisations gain a clearer understanding of where they are making a difference and where they can continue to improve. For Make The Change, these principles shape not only our operations but also the way we evaluate the impact of our programmes and partnerships. Learning Never Stops Perhaps the most valuable takeaway from the summit was the mindset shared by so many organisations. Regardless of their size, industry, or certification score, they continued asking the same question: How can we create even greater positive impact? That commitment to continuous learning mirrors the growth mindset we encourage in every workshop, youth programme, and partnership we deliver. Looking Ahead As Make The Change continues our own B Corp re-certification journey, the summit has provided fresh ideas, valuable connections, and renewed motivation to keep raising our standards. We look forward to applying these insights across our programmes, strengthening collaborations within the B Corp community, and continuing to support the next generation of changemakers. The journey toward creating a better future is never complete. But by learning together, sharing openly, and continuously improving, we can create lasting impact that extends far beyond our own organisations. We would like to thank B Lab Asia and everyone we had the opportunity to meet throughout the summit. Your ideas, experiences, and commitment to positive change continue to inspire our work. Together, we can build a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future.

Making a Difference Starts with Building the Right Skills The world is changing faster than ever before. Artificial Intelligence is transforming industries. Climate change is reshaping communities. New careers are emerging while others disappear. At the same time, today’s biggest challenges cannot be solved by technology alone. They require people who can think creatively, work with others, understand different perspectives, and take meaningful action. These are changemakers. At Make The Change, we believe that anyone can become a changemaker. It is not about age, job title, or experience. It is about developing the skills needed to create positive impact in your school, workplace, community, or even globally. After working with thousands of students, educators, professionals, and community members across Singapore, we developed our Changemaker Skills Framework to guide the competencies that matter most for the future. What Are Changemaker Skills? Changemaker skills are the abilities that empower people to identify challenges, develop creative solutions, collaborate with others, and turn ideas into positive action. Unlike technical skills that may change over time, these human-centred skills remain valuable across every industry and stage of life. Our Changemaker Skills Framework focuses on eight core competencies that prepare individuals not only for future careers but also for meaningful leadership and lifelong learning. 1. Empathy Everything begins with understanding people. Empathy allows us to see the world from another person’s perspective. Before creating solutions, changemakers first listen. Whether designing a product, leading a team, or supporting a community, empathy helps ensure that solutions address real problems rather than assumed ones. Why it matters Builds stronger relationships Improves communication Creates human-centred solutions Develops inclusive thinking 2. Critical Thinking Information is everywhere. The ability to analyse information, question assumptions, identify bias, and make informed decisions has become one of the most valuable future skills. Changemakers do not simply accept problems as they are. They ask why, evaluate evidence, and explore multiple perspectives before taking action. Why it matters Better decision-making Stronger problem solving Greater resilience against misinformation Improved innovation 3. Collaboration No one changes the world alone. The most successful projects are built by diverse teams with different strengths and perspectives. Learning how to communicate effectively, resolve disagreements, and work toward shared goals is essential for creating sustainable impact. Why it matters Builds leadership Encourages teamwork Improves communication Strengthens project outcomes 4. Resilience and Adaptability Challenges are inevitable. What separates successful changemakers is not avoiding failure but learning from it. Resilience helps people recover from setbacks, while adaptability allows them to embrace change, learn continuously, and adjust when circumstances evolve. These qualities have become increasingly important in an AI-powered and rapidly changing world. Why it matters Builds confidence Encourages lifelong learning Supports innovation Helps manage uncertainty 5. Creative Confidence Creativity is more than artistic ability. Creative confidence is the belief that you can generate ideas, experiment with solutions, and improve through iteration. Many people think they are “not creative,” yet creativity is a skill that grows through practice. Changemakers approach problems with curiosity rather than fear. Why it matters Encourages innovation Builds confidence Inspires new ideas Promotes experimentation 6. Systems Thinking Real-world problems are interconnected. Systems thinking helps changemakers understand how people, organisations, policies, technology, and the environment influence one another. Instead of fixing symptoms, systems thinkers search for root causes and long-term solutions. Why it matters Better strategic thinking More sustainable solutions Improved decision-making Greater understanding of complex challenges 7. Leadership Leadership is not about having authority. It is about inspiring others, taking initiative, and creating opportunities for people to contribute. Everyone can demonstrate leadership regardless of their age or position. Great changemakers lead through action, integrity, and service. Why it matters Builds confidence Inspires others Creates positive influence Strengthens communities 8. Civic and Global Awareness Today’s challenges extend beyond our own communities. Climate change, sustainability, social inclusion, technological ethics, and global citizenship affect us all. Changemakers understand how local actions contribute to broader global goals and recognise their responsibility to make a positive difference. Why it matters Encourages responsible citizenship Supports sustainable thinking Builds cultural understanding Connects local action with global impact Why These Skills Matter for the Future According to employers worldwide, technical knowledge alone is no longer enough. As Artificial Intelligence automates routine tasks, the most valuable human capabilities will be those that technology cannot easily replace: Empathy Creativity Leadership Collaboration Critical thinking Adaptability These are exactly the capabilities developed through our Changemaker Skills Framework. Whether you are a student preparing for future careers, an educator developing tomorrow’s leaders, or an organisation investing in talent development, these skills provide a strong foundation for long-term success. How We Develop Changemaker Skills At Make The Change, these competencies are embedded across all our learning experiences. Instead of teaching skills in isolation, participants develop them through authentic projects, design challenges, digital storytelling, social innovation, entrepreneurship, sustainability initiatives, and collaborative problem solving. Learning becomes meaningful because participants apply what they learn to real-world situations. Becoming a Changemaker Starts Today Creating positive impact does not require waiting until adulthood or becoming an expert. It starts by asking questions, understanding others, trying new ideas, learning from mistakes, and taking small actions that improve the lives of people around us. Every changemaker begins with a single step. The skills can be learned. The mindset can be developed. The opportunity to make a difference starts today. Learn More About Make The Change At Make The Change, we design programmes that help students, educators, professionals, and organisations develop the skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. Through hands-on learning, technology, creativity, and social innovation, we empower people to become confident changemakers who create positive impact in their communities. If you are interested in bringing changemaker education to your school or organisation, we’d love to connect with you.

In the current fast-paced world that frequently demands a linear, flawless trajectory toward success, choosing an unconventional path can feel like taking a massive risk. Yet, it is often through navigating unexpected disruptions and stepping far outside our comfort zones that the most profound change-making journeys are born. Earlier this year on March 19th, our participants from our Youth For Change Workshop 2026 had the privilege of attending an insightful sharing session from Niall Ahern, a seasoned diplomat at the British High Commission in Singapore. Rather than recounting a predictable corporate climb, Niall shared a deeply personal, raw and inspiring story about his journey defined by resilience, military grit, global crises, and the courage to make decisions that others often labeled as mistakes. From School Struggles to a Leap of Faith; Finding Grounding in Chaos 💡🔥 Niall started his sharing by looking back at his roots, where he grew up in a traditional working-class family in South London. He admitted that he "hated every moment of school" and constantly felt like he did not fit into the standard education system. Failing exams and frequently finding himself in detention, Niall reached a critical crossroads at the age of 17. He had to make a decision between pushing through higher education or packing a bag to travel the world. Decided to go against his family's worries that he was "going off the rails", Niall took a leap of faith and made a decision to travel. However, it was a decision that he did not expect that would permanently alter his worldview. Niall's travels eventually took him to Thailand in 2004, when the historic Indian Ocean tsunami struck. Navigating the sheer panic of a pre-smartphone era where news could not travel instantly, Niall survived the disaster and quickly sought out ways to give back. He chose to stay in Thailand, volunteering his time to organize community initiatives and support children at an orphanage named "Maternus the Beach" for children who had lost their families to the majestic waves. This grounding experience instilled in him a profound sense of empathy and a desire to build a life centered around global service and giving back to communities. The Reality of Resilience: From "Photocopy Boy" to the Military 💼🪖 Returning to the UK, Niall found his 'tribe' and discovered a newfound interest for learning at King's College London. But just as he secured his dream job with the Foreign Office in 2008. the global financial crisis hit. Recruits were frozen, job cuts were made, and Niall found himself stranded in an expensive city with no income. Instead of giving up, Niall took a job as a full-time photocopy boy at a London law firm, spending eight hours a day lifting legal documents. He notes that the experience gave him the raw determination and drive to keep fighting for something more. He later transitioned into corporate consulting at Deloitte, finding financial success but little personal fulfillment. Driven by a desire for a deeper purpose, he made another sharp turn and joined the military. Serving in intelligence and deploying to volatile environments, Niall learned the true value of leadership, systems thinking, and deeply-rooted community camaraderie. Steering Your Own Ship: Turning "Mistakes" into Impact 🌟 Niall's diverse experiences eventually brought him back to his ultimate goal — diplomacy. After working through six grueling recruitment rounds, he landed a role in business and trade, spending five life-changing years navigating the length and breadth of India before his posting to Singapore. To close his insightful session, Niall left our youth participants with a powerful, reflective truth about self-leadership: "Every single time I've made a choice, it has led me down another path. It has made me a better human being, given me wider opportunities, and it has introduced me to some of the most incredible people in the world. Sometimes, pushing yourself out of your comfort zone is exactly what opens your mind to a whole different experience." In a digital age where uncertainty is the only constant, Niall's journey serves as a living reminder that non-linear path is often the most rewarding. By consciously choosing to step past the fear of failure, we can take ownership of our own narratives and rewrite what it truly means to make a change. Thank you, Niall, for stepping forward to share your raw, inspiring, and unconventional journey with our community! Your powerful message on embracing the uncomfortable and transforming perceived "mistakes" into impactful growth left a lasting impression on everyone in the room. Let's carry Niall's courage into our own lives — take this as your sign to step out of your comfort zone, embrace a new challenge today, and start charting your own unique path toward making a change! 🌟💪

At Make The Change, we believe that creativity is more than just making something beautiful. It is about expressing ideas, building confidence, and discovering new ways to tell stories. Over four engaging sessions, participants in our Digital Drawing & Animation Workshop explored the exciting world of digital art and animation using iPads and Procreate in collaboration with the Children Wishing Well. What began as simple sketches quickly evolved into colourful illustrations and animated creations that showcased each student’s imagination and unique artistic style. Building Strong Foundations in Digital Art The programme began by introducing students to the fundamentals of digital drawing. Using Procreate, students learned how to navigate the interface, use brushes effectively, work with layers, and experiment with colour, shading, and composition. For many participants, this was their first experience creating digital artwork on an iPad. Through guided exercises and hands-on practice, they gained confidence in using digital tools while developing their artistic skills. By the end of the first half of the programme, students had created a variety of illustrations ranging from characters and animals to imaginative scenes and personal artwork. Discovering the Magic of Animation Once students had developed their drawing skills, they were introduced to the world of animation. Using Procreate Animation Assist, participants learned how movement is created through frames, timing, and sequencing. Concepts that may initially seem complex became accessible through practical activities and creative experimentation. Students explored how even simple movements, such as blinking eyes, bouncing objects, or waving characters, could transform a static drawing into something engaging and alive. The excitement in the classroom was evident as students watched their creations move for the first time. Creativity Through Storytelling One of the key focuses of the workshop was helping students understand that animation is not just about movement. It is also about communication and storytelling. Students were encouraged to consider the stories behind their artwork, the emotions they wanted to convey, and how visual elements could engage an audience. Through this process, they developed not only technical skills but also creative confidence and self-expression. Showcasing Student Creations The final session provided students with an opportunity to complete and share their animated projects. The diversity of the final artworks reflected the group's creativity. From playful characters and imaginative worlds to animated scenes filled with personality, each project demonstrated how students had applied both drawing and animation skills throughout the programme. Most importantly, every student left with a finished creation they could be proud of. Isometric Drawing Animation Positive Feedback from Participants Student feedback highlighted the success of the programme and the positive learning experience it provided. Participants shared that they learned: Digital drawing techniques Colouring and shading skills How to use Procreate effectively Animation fundamentals Creative storytelling through visual media The workshop achieved an average satisfaction rating of 4.23 out of 5 stars, with more than 77% of participants awarding the programme 4 or 5 stars. Students described the sessions as: “The drawing was fun.” “Good.” “This lesson is the best.” These comments reflect the enthusiasm and engagement shown throughout the workshop. Empowering the Next Generation of Digital Creators As digital creativity becomes increasingly important across education, media, and future careers, programmes like this provide students with valuable opportunities to explore technology in meaningful and creative ways. By combining art, storytelling, and digital tools, students can develop skills that extend beyond the classroom, including creativity, communication, problem-solving, and confidence. We are proud of what our students accomplished during the Digital Drawing & Animation Workshop and look forward to seeing how they continue their creative journeys. At Make The Change, we remain committed to helping learners discover their potential through creativity, technology, and innovation. Interested in bringing Digital Drawing & Animation to your school or organisation? Contact us to learn more about our creative learning programmes.

When people think of Yishun, they often think of the headlines. Over the years, the neighbourhood has become the subject of countless memes, viral stories and internet jokes. Mention Yishun in a conversation and chances are someone will have a story, or at least a stereotype, ready to share. But for Cassandra and Aizuddin from Found Films, Yishun is much more than a punchline. It is the place they grew up in, the place that shaped many of their memories, and ultimately, the inspiration behind their micro-comedy series, Yishun Strong. In Episode 36 of Conversation of Change, we sat down with the duo to learn more about the origins of the series and the stories that inspired it. What emerged was not just a conversation about filmmaking, but a reflection on community, identity and the power of storytelling. Drawing from childhood memories, familiar neighbourhood personalities and everyday interactions, Cassandra and Aizuddiin began creating a world that felt recognisable to residents while remaining relatable to audiences across Singapore. Many of the characters were inspired by people they had encountered throughout their lives. The pair shared candidly about the realities of independent filmmaking, from storyboarding and casting to coordinating shoots and navigating creative differences along the way. Like many creative projects, bringing an idea to life required patience, adaptability and a willingness to solve problems as they arose. Yet one of the most memorable aspects of the journey was the response from the community itself. As filming took place around the neighbourhood, curious residents stopped to ask questions, local businesses offered support and community spaces became part of the production process. These interactions reinforced the team's belief that storytelling can be a collective effort, especially when it is rooted in genuine appreciation for a place and its people. Throughout our conversation, it became clear that Yishun Strong was never intended to be just another comedy series. In a time when narratives can spread rapidly online, micro-dramas like Yishun Strong remind us that communities deserve the opportunity to tell their own stories. Sometimes, all it takes is a familiar character, a shared laugh or a moment of recognition for people to see a place differently. Perhaps that is what makes storytelling such a powerful force for change. Discover our podcast on your favourite audio apps now! 🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/sg/podcast/make-the-change-conversation-of-change-podcast/id1511455099 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1FPfumkodY86gN9wUBUgYV?si=ff0560b50aff4c30

At Make The Change, we believe that innovation begins when young people are given the tools, confidence, and opportunities to bring their ideas to life. We were proud to support the YOUNNOVATE Hackathon 2026, an inspiring initiative that empowers young women to explore technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation and to develop solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As part of the hackathon experience, our team conducted a hands-on workshop focused on rapid prototyping using Apple Keynote on iPad. While many people think of Keynote as a presentation tool, participants discovered how it can also be used to create interactive app prototypes, simulate user experiences, and communicate ideas without writing a single line of code. From Ideas to Interactive Prototypes One of the biggest challenges for young innovators is translating an idea in their mind into something others can see and understand. Through the workshop, participants learned how to: Transform ideas into visual app concepts Create user interface screens Design navigation between different sections of an app Use animations and transitions to simulate user experiences Build interactive prototypes for pitching and feedback By focusing on prototyping rather than coding, participants were able to quickly test, refine, and communicate their ideas while spending more time thinking about the problem they wanted to solve. Learning Through Creation At Make The Change, we believe that the best learning happens when participants create something meaningful. Rather than simply teaching software features, the workshop encouraged participants to think like designers, innovators, and entrepreneurs. Students explored how technology can be used to solve real-world challenges and how visual storytelling can help bring solutions to life. The hands-on nature of the session allowed participants to immediately apply what they learned, experiment with different approaches, and see their ideas take shape before their eyes. Why Prototyping Matters Many of the world’s most successful products started as simple prototypes. Before an app is coded or a product is launched, innovators often create prototypes to test concepts, gather feedback, and communicate their vision to others. By introducing participants to rapid prototyping, we helped them develop an important innovation skill widely used by startups, designers, entrepreneurs, and technology teams worldwide. More importantly, participants discovered that they do not need advanced technical skills to begin creating solutions. What matters most is having an idea, understanding the problem, and taking the first step toward building something meaningful. More Than Technology While the workshop focused on technology tools, the deeper goal was to build confidence. Innovation is not just about apps and devices. It is about creativity, problem-solving, communication, collaboration, and the courage to share an idea with the world. Seeing participants transform their concepts into interactive prototypes reminded us that the next generation of innovators is already full of potential. Sometimes all they need is an opportunity to start. Looking Ahead We are grateful to the YOUNNOVATE team for the opportunity to contribute to this meaningful initiative and to support young women exploring pathways in technology and innovation. At Make The Change, we remain committed to empowering youths through creativity, technology, entrepreneurship, and social impact. Whether through hackathons, workshops, internships, or learning experiences, we believe every young person has the potential to create positive change. As we shared with participants during the workshop: Every great innovation starts as an idea. The future belongs to those who are willing to take that first step.

At Make The Change, we believe that young people should be exposed to a wide range of career pathways, especially those that empower them to create a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Recently, our Co-Founder, Pedro Aguirre, participated in the Global Indian International School Career Fair, where he shared insights into a career path many students may not have considered before: Social Entrepreneurship. While traditional career paths such as medicine, engineering, law, and finance are often well understood, social entrepreneurship remains relatively unfamiliar to many young people. Yet it is a field that combines innovation, business, leadership, and purpose to address some of society’s most pressing challenges. Throughout the event, students demonstrated remarkable curiosity and engagement. They asked thoughtful questions about how social enterprises operate, how impact can be measured, and what it takes to build a career focused on creating positive change. These conversations reinforced an important lesson: today’s youth are not only thinking about their future careers, but they are also thinking about the kind of impact they want to make in the world. Why Career Exposure Matters Career fairs play an important role in helping students discover opportunities beyond the professions they encounter in their daily lives. By meeting professionals from diverse industries, students gain a broader understanding of the possibilities available to them and can begin to align their interests, strengths, and values with future pathways. For Make The Change, these engagements are particularly meaningful because they provide an opportunity to introduce young people to the growing fields of social innovation, sustainability, and impact-driven entrepreneurship. As global challenges become increasingly complex, there is a growing need for individuals who can think creatively, collaborate across sectors, and develop sustainable solutions that benefit both people and the planet. Building the Next Generation of Changemakers At Make The Change, our programmes are designed to help young people develop the skills and mindsets needed to thrive in this changing world. Through experiences in social innovation, entrepreneurship, design thinking, sustainability, digital media, and leadership, students learn they can contribute meaningfully to society, regardless of the career path they eventually pursue. The conversations at the Global Indian International School Career Fair were a powerful reminder that many young people are eager to explore ways to combine purpose with profession. We are grateful to the Global Indian International School team for the invitation and for creating opportunities that encourage students to think deeply about their futures. As we continue our mission of empowering the next generation of changemakers, we look forward to engaging more schools, educators, and students in conversations about impact, innovation, and purpose-driven careers. Bring Career Exploration to Your School Looking to inspire your students with real-world insights into social entrepreneurship, sustainability, innovation, and careers with impact? Make The Change offers engaging talks, workshops, and experiential learning programmes that help students explore emerging career pathways while developing future-ready skills. Contact us today to learn how we can support your school’s career guidance, Applied Learning Programme (ALP), or student development initiatives.

Ray Yen, Hamsini, Gemma, Yann Wen, Claire (from left to right) Learning does not only happen in the classroom. During the June holidays in 2025, four students from Raffles Girls' School joined the Young Changemaker Programme for a two-week internship experience. Through hands-on projects, workshops, event support and meaningful conversations, they gained a firsthand look at how ideas can be transformed into action and how businesses can create a positive change in society. The internship began with the students getting acquainted with the day-to-day operations at Make The Change. As with many real-world projects, meaningful impact begins with strong system and organisation. The students supported various database and administrative tasks, gaining insight into the importance of data management and operational processes that keep programmes runnings smoothly behind the scenes. Having explored the foundations of social impact work, the second week focused on applying their learning in real-world settings. One of the highlights was being a part of the Young Changemaker Camp, where youths explored leadership and creativity impact through hands-on activities and collaborative challenges. At the end of the camp, the students also presented a final showcase, bringing together their learning. They were encouraged to reflect on their experiences, articulate key insights and share how their understanding of social impact has evolved through the camp. The internship concluded on a high note with the students supporting the Bring Your Kids To Work Day at the Infocomm Media Development Authority. Through two interactive workshops, Sticker Magic and Podcasting Pals, they witnessed how creativity and technology can be used to engaged and inspire young learners. The interns played an active role in supporting the participants throughout the sessions. The experience challenged them to adapt their communication styles and think on their feet. By the end of the day, the students had not only contributed to a memorable experience for the children attended the event but had also gained confidence in their own ability to support and engage others through meaningful programmes. "I gained an in-depth experience of how social enterprises utilise social innovation, digital tools, and different business models to uplift and improve the well-being of individuals in our society" - Gemma "This internship was truly something new for me, I got to explore many new things and step out of my comfort zone with plenty of fun activities. I also enjoyed getting to know my peers. Many of the things I learnt were very useful, such as presentation tips and editing skills and even organising things on notion ( I have not used Notion before this)" - Hamsini "A significant aspect of our internship was planning a project with various obstacles in mind. Overall, the internship provided a well-rounded exposure to the practical side of social innovation, enhancing both my strategic thinking and interpersonal abilities." - Claire The internship demonstrated that social impact is not limited to large-scale initiatives. It can begin with understanding a problem, listening to different perspectives and taking small but meaningful steps towards creating change. Through their two weeks here, these interns developed a deeper understanding of community impact, strengthened valuable life skills and discovered how they can play a role in shaping a better future. We are proud to have been part of their journey and look forward to seeing where it takes them next!

Episode 2: Building an AI Consultant to Guide Our B Corp Re-Certification Journey In Episode 1, we shared why Make The Change is embarking on our B Corp re-certification journey under B Lab’s new standards and why we decided to document the process publicly. As we moved from reflection to action, we quickly realized something. The new standards are comprehensive. There are multiple impact topics, detailed requirements, supporting evidence, policies, and documentation to review. For a small social enterprise, keeping track of everything can quickly become overwhelming. So we asked ourselves a simple question: Could AI help us navigate the process more effectively? Creating Our Own B Corp AI Consultant To help us stay organized, we decided to create a custom AI assistant using Gemini Gems. Rather than using a generic AI chatbot, we wanted to build a specialized consultant that understands the B Corp re-certification process and can provide guidance based on the actual requirements we need to meet. To do this, we fed the AI assistant with a range of reference materials, including: Documentation related to the B Corp certification and re-certification process Resources explaining the new B Lab standards Guidance documents and supporting materials Our own internal plans and organizational information But we wanted to go one step further. Turning the Assessment Into a Working Database One of the most useful things we did was download the assessment questions and organize them into a Google Sheet. By structuring the questions in a searchable format, we created a working database that our AI consultant could reference when providing recommendations. This means the AI is not simply giving generic sustainability advice. Instead, it can: Reference actual assessment requirements Suggest evidence we may need to prepare Identify potential gaps in our documentation Recommend next steps based on specific standards Help us prioritize actions based on our current progress In many ways, it feels like having a consultant available whenever we need guidance. Why This Matters One of the biggest challenges in any certification process is not necessarily understanding what needs to be done. It is staying organized and maintaining momentum over time. By combining AI with structured data and official guidance materials, we are creating a system that helps us break a large and complex project into manageable actions. The goal is not to replace human judgment. The goal is to augment our capacity to learn, analyze, and make better decisions. Early Lessons Although we are still in the early stages of our re-certification journey, a few lessons have already emerged: 1. Good AI Starts With Good Data The quality of the outputs depends heavily on the quality of the information you provide. Providing actual standards, assessment questions, and supporting documentation dramatically improves the usefulness of the responses. 2. Structure Matters Organizing information into a format that AI can easily access and reference has been just as important as the AI itself. The Google Sheet has become a surprisingly valuable part of the process. 3. AI Works Best as a Thinking Partner The most valuable role of our AI consultant is not giving answers. It is helping us ask better questions, identify blind spots, and think more systematically about impact. Looking Ahead As our re-certification journey continues, we plan to further develop this AI-powered approach and explore how technology can support organizations pursuing sustainability and impact goals. In future episodes, we’ll share: How we are mapping the new standards The biggest gaps we discover What surprised us most about the requirements Practical tools and workflows that other organizations can use Lessons learned from implementing improvements across the organization One of the exciting things about this journey is that we are not only learning about B Corp re-certification. We are also learning how AI can support mission-driven organizations in creating greater impact. And that may be one of the most valuable lessons of all.