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We were delighted to host a group of dedicated educators from Nan Hua High School at our Make The Change office! During the visit, we shared about our Changemaker Skills Framework and how it is embedded across our programmes to nurture empathy, creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking among students. The teachers also had the opportunity to learn more about our MTC Changemaker Methodology — a structured approach that empowers youth to identify community challenges, ideate innovative solutions, and create meaningful impact. It was an inspiring exchange of ideas with passionate educators who are equally committed to preparing students to become future-ready changemakers . We look forward to more collaborations with Nan Hua High School and other education partners to continue advancing education for impact . 🌱✨ 📍 Make The Change, Singapore 📸 Nan Hua High School teachers during their visit to MTC

How do you move from a thriving career in media to building a purpose-driven social enterprise that champions sustainability? Christina Lee knows the answer first-hand. After more than a decade leading powerhouse brands like Bloomberg Businessweek, Yahoo!, and Star Television, she made a daring decision in 2012 to step away from the headlines and toward a higher purpose. Today, through Global Green Connect  and GGEF , Christina channels her business expertise into empowering youth, women, and companies to build a more sustainable future. Turning ESG into Economic Value In this podcast episode, Christina shares how her team works closely with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to address Scope 3 emissions —the indirect emissions that occur across a company’s entire value chain. By helping organizations translate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)  goals into tangible economic value , Global Green Connect proves that sustainability isn’t just good for the planet—it’s smart business. Learning Through Action Education is at the heart of Christina’s approach. From workshops to interactive programs such as the SDG Open Hack , she empowers participants to explore creative, hands-on solutions to global sustainability challenges. These initiatives don’t just spread awareness—they spark innovation and community action. Your First Step Starts Now Christina also offers practical tips and simple actions  that anyone can take to begin their sustainability journey. Whether it’s making mindful consumption choices, engaging in local green projects, or advocating for climate-conscious policies, each small step contributes to a larger impact. Tune in to the full episode to hear Christina’s insights and take your first step toward a greener, more sustainable future. 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

Held over two runs on 9th and 20th September , the sticker workshops welcomed both familiar and new faces. Despite many attending with little to zero knowledge of digital art, everyone came with open minds and eager hearts to learn. Learning the Basics of Digital Drawing Each session began with an introduction to the basic functions of Procreate , guiding participants through essential tools and techniques to navigate the digital canvas. From experimenting with brushes to layering their artwork, they learned how to transform a blank screen into a lively piece of art. By the end of the workshop, every participant successfully created their own digital sticker , gaining confidence in using professional art software. Discovering the Art of Chibi A highlight of the workshop was the deep dive into Chibi art , a beloved anime style known for its playful and adorable aesthetic. Chibi characters are often described as “super deformed,” featuring oversized eyes and heads paired with tiny noses and bodies , giving them their signature cute appeal. Participants were introduced to the idea of human proportions in drawing , learning that while a standard human figure is about eight heads tall and two heads wide, chibi-style art takes a dramatically different approach. The key is to drastically enlarge the head and simplify the body, focusing on roundness and exaggerated features to create that unmistakable cute, childlike charm. To help participants bring their ideas to life, trainers demonstrated how to break down complex shapes into simple forms , like spheres and cylinders to create helpful guidelines for positioning each part of their drawings accurately. We are incredibly grateful for the support from everyone who joined us, making these sessions such a wonderful success. With this positive response, we hope to conduct more workshops like this in the future, continuing to nurture creativity and bring people together through the joy of digital art.

We’re back with a fresh wave—literally. Our latest episode of Conversation of Change kicks off a new season, a new look, and the same bold spirit of storytelling. Who better to headline this next chapter than Ben Conniff , co-founder & CEO of Luke’s Lobster ? The Journey of Luke's Lobster From freelance food writer to co-building a sustainable seafood business, Ben shares the real story behind the brand that’s now synonymous with traceable, responsibly-sourced lobster rolls. In this candid conversation, he dives into: The early grit and vision that shaped Luke’s Lobster. How sustainability and fair treatment of fishermen are core to their mission. Lessons in leadership, humility, and staying authentic amidst rapid growth. Purpose-Driven Ventures This episode highlights how purpose-driven ventures can ride against the current—and still thrive. It’s not just about business; it’s about making a difference. Whether you're a changemaker, foodie, or entrepreneur at heart, this one’s for you. The Importance of Sustainability Sustainability is more than a buzzword; it’s a necessity. As consumers, we have the power to support businesses that prioritize the environment. Choosing sustainable seafood means supporting fishermen who practice responsible fishing methods. This choice helps protect marine ecosystems and ensures that future generations can enjoy seafood. Lessons from the Sea Ben's journey is filled with valuable lessons. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's values. In a world where trends come and go, authenticity remains crucial. Businesses that prioritize their mission over profits often find greater success in the long run. Join the Conversation 🎙️ Tune in now and be part of this new tide of transformation. 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 Conclusion In conclusion, the conversation with Ben Conniff is not just a story about seafood. It’s a narrative about change, sustainability, and the future of our oceans. By supporting businesses like Luke’s Lobster, we contribute to a healthier planet. Join us in making informed choices. Together, we can create a wave of positive change.

What would you do if the only thing standing between you and your dream career was money? For millions of students across Asia, financial barriers decide their future. Traditional loans are often out of reach, and even when available, they saddle young people with years of debt before they've even started their careers. But what if there were another way? In the latest episode of our podcast, Mario Ferro , founder of Waiser , came forward to discuss how the Pay-It-Forward model are transforming access to education. Instead of focusing on credit history, Waiser invests in potential—ensuring that capable, motivated students have the chance to pursue their studies regardless of financial background. The conversation with Mario Ferro is both eye-opening and inspiring. It challenges us to think differently about how education is funded, and what's possible when we remove financial barriers to learning. 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

Last weekend, we had the privilege of being a part of NTU SSC 2025 Networking Day  held at NTU's North Spine Plaza. It was a dynamic and purpose-driven gathering of industry professionals, student changemakers – to inspire and empower youth to create positive social impact. Our Contribution As part of the event, Make The Change  led a Masterclass on Effective Presentation . Our Community Engagement & Partnerships Senior Executive, Ms Nabilah Tai , guided students through a 60-minute interactive session focused on strengthening their presentation skills – a crucial asset for anyone championing a cause or pitching a policy. From structuring content to confident delivery, the workshop equipped participants with the tools they need to speak up for the change they wish to see. Later in the day, our Co-founder and Community and Impact Director, Mr Pedro Aguirre , joined a fireside chat  alongside esteemed industry leaders. He shared insights on driving social innovation and staying grounded in purpose. It was heartening to witness the thoughtful questions from students who were curious not just about careers, but about contributing meaningfully to society. Why This Matters – Inspiring the Changemaker Mindset What stood out most was the energy – the kind that signals a shift. These young individuals weren’t just passive attendees; they were eager listeners and critical thinkers. At Make The Change, we believe that social innovation begins with empowerment. Continuing the Movement Events like this reaffirm our mission. They remind us that when youth are given knowledge, skills, and encouragement, they rise to the occasion. That’s why we remain committed to co-creating learning experiences that blend creativity, civic engagement, and real-world impact. Whether it’s through workshops, mentoring, or collaborative projects, we’ll continue to champion youth-led change – because the future belongs to those who dare to imagine a better one, and act on it. To all the students we met, thank you for your enthusiasm. To the AISEC organising committee, thank you for pulling it all together. Here’s to more meaningful collaborations ahead!

Inspiring the next generation of changemakers through storytelling, problem-solving, and purpose At Make The Change, we believe that every young person has the potential to drive meaningful change in their community. That’s why we were honoured to be part of the Raffles Business Roundtable 2025 , an event organised by Raffles Institution that brings together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and educators to inspire the next generation of innovators. As a guest speaker, we had the opportunity to share the Make The Change journey — from our humble beginnings as a social enterprise to becoming a platform that empowers youths, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities through education, design, and innovation. But the real magic happened during the workshop session , where we invited students to tackle a powerful problem statement: How might we empower youths to become confident and capable entrepreneurs who can create solutions for real-world problems, generate income, and drive positive change in their communities? The students impressed us with their bold ideas — from social ventures addressing youth unemployment and financial literacy, to platforms that match young people with mentors, capital, and training. Their creativity, empathy, and entrepreneurial spirit reminded us that the future is bright when young minds are given space to dream and tools to build. We’re incredibly proud to have been part of this initiative and look forward to supporting some of these ideas as they evolve into real, impactful ventures. 💬 Let’s Collaborate to Empower Youth Are you an educator, school, corporate partner, or policymaker passionate about youth development and social innovation ? Join us in co-creating programmes, mentorship opportunities, and real-world platforms that nurture the next generation of changemakers. 📩 Reach out to us and let’s make the change together

We embarked on an inspiring journey with our Young Change Maker Internship, driven by a passionate goal: to empower the next generation of changemakers. We're thrilled to share that our story has been featured on the news at Channel News Asia , highlighting the incredible impact of secondary schools offering transformative internship opportunities. Join us in celebrating young leaders shaping a better tomorrow! Read the whole article here:   https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/internships-secondary-school-students-unpaid-5230706 If you are interested in our Young Changemaker Programme, you can read more HERE

At the National Day Rally 2025 , Prime Minister Lawrence Wong laid out a bold vision for Singapore’s future — a society where we put “We-First” . A future where our youths are not only digitally savvy, but also empathetic, responsible citizens who actively co-create solutions for our nation. This resonates deeply with us at Make The Change . For more than a decade, we have been designing programs that prepare youths to thrive in a fast-changing world while instilling values of empathy, sustainability, and civic engagement. Building Empathy and Citizenship One of the key messages from the Rally was the importance of nurturing empathy and citizenship . Beyond academic success, our youths must learn to understand different perspectives and work together for the common good. Through our Changemaker and Social Innovation workshops , students engage in real-world issues — from sustainability to social inclusion. Activities like design-thinking challenges and empathy walks encourage them to step into the shoes of others, cultivating compassion and a sense of responsibility for their communities. Strengthening Digital Literacy and Critical Thinking PM Wong also emphasized the need for youths to be digitally resilient , not just skilled at using AI and technology, but capable of critiquing, questioning, and using tech responsibly . Our iPad for Learning programs help students explore photography, videography, podcasting, and augmented reality — all while sharpening their digital storytelling skills. More importantly, we integrate critical thinking by guiding students to evaluate content, question biases, and consider the impact of technology on society. This approach doesn’t just build skills — it builds confidence, creativity, and discernment in a digital-first world. Inspiring Active Civic Engagement The Rally also spoke about creating more platforms — councils, hackathons, and youth panels — to give young people a real voice in shaping policies and initiatives. We echo this through our Young Changemaker Programme , where students co-create solutions for pressing social issues and present them to community partners. These projects not only empower youths to lead but also bridge them to civil society, government, and industry stakeholders. This is how we transform students from passive participants into active contributors of Singapore’s future. A Call to Collaboration Singapore’s next chapter will be defined by how well we empower our youth to live out empathy, citizenship, and digital fluency. At Make The Change , we are committed to walking this journey together with schools, corporates, and community organisations. If you share this vision, we invite you to collaborate with us — to design programs, mentor young changemakers, and co-create a brighter future for all. Closing Thought As PM Wong reminded us, building a “We-First” society means ensuring that no one is left behind — and that starts with our youth. By equipping them with empathy, citizenship, and digital skills, we give them the tools not only to succeed, but to lead Singapore forward with heart and purpose.

A 1-Day Workshop for Educators and Changemakers At Make The Change , we believe education is a powerful driver for a sustainable future. That’s why we’re proud to co-organize this upcoming hands-on workshop with Michael Johnston , CEO of SJI International and certified Compass Education facilitator. Join us on Monday, October 6 , for a full-day professional learning experience designed to introduce educators, administrators, and support staff to the Compass Tools and the fundamentals of systems thinking for sustainability . You can read more about Compass Education ( HERE ) 🧭 What You’ll Learn Practical tools to cultivate a culture of sustainability in your school How to integrate systems thinking into your teaching and school community Strategies for embedding sustainability in everyday learning and leadership Whether you’re new to sustainability or already on your journey, this workshop will empower you to lead with clarity, connection, and purpose. 📅 Event Details Date: Monday, October 6 Time: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM Venue: 30 Merchant Rd, Riverside Point Building #03-03, Singapore 058282 Fee: SGD 100 🎤 Facilitator Michael Johnston CEO, SJI International | Compass Facilitator Michael brings deep expertise in international education, sustainability, and leadership. 🗣️ What Past Participants Say “The workshop brought great concepts, models, and time to integrate positive growth into our thinking and practice. I left feeling like our team was better prepared to influence our school’s learning toward a more impactful growth of a sustainability mindset.” — Magda G., American International School of Budapest 🔗 Register Now – Limited Seats Available 👉 Click here to register For enquiries, contact: 📩 pedro@makethechange.sg 📩 michael.johnston@sji-international.com.sg

Spot us! We had the privilege of attending B Lab's workshop: How To Build Trust through Impactful Stories . The session had an engaging panel that brought together leaders across industries to share how storytelling can be a powerful bridge between businesses and their audiences. The panel was moderated by Cara McLeod, Cheif Executive at Mahlab and featured insights from: Peilin Lee, Head of Marketing at Nespresso Gayle Wong, Head of Marketing at Stone Cybersecutrity Irene Goh, Managing Director at L'Occitane APAC Together, they unpacked what it really means for brands to tell stories that not only inspire, but also build long-lasting trust. Embedding Impact at the Core One of the strongest messages that resonated with us was ' Impact should be embedded, not added on '. When purpose-driven work is woven into a company's business model, it creates authentic value. Audiences today are quick to discern when purpose is an afterthought versus when it's truly part of a brand. At Make The Change, this is an approach we actively practice. Purpose is not an afterthought, but a guiding principle behind every programme we design. Transparency Build Trust The panel also emphasized that trust grows through transparency. People respond to clarity and honesty. Brands don't have to be perfect, but they do need to be open about both their progress and their challenges. This aligns strongly with the way we work. In our collaborations with partners, schools, and communities, we are transparent about objectives, challenges and outcomes. Transparency also extends to how we measure and share impact. Rather than focusing only on numbers, we highlight the stories and transformations that show real change. Local Stories, Local Resonance A recurring theme was the importance of local contexts. Purpose becomes most powerful when adapted to the cultural context of a community. Stories that feel rooted in people's lived experiences have far more impact than generic global narratives. MTC actively adapts our programmes to the unique needs of the communities we serve: Youth : We integrate familiar digital platforms and creative tools, ensuring programmes are not only educational but also relevant to their world Seniors : We simplify digital literacy into bite-sized steps and tie lessons to meaningful themes Corporate / NGO partners : We design the programme to be aligned with their organisational values, helping them embed social impact into their own narratives By tailoring our approaches, we ensure our programmes are not just delivered to communities but with them. Final Thoughts The event underscored that impactful storytelling is far more than a branding exercise. It is the foundation for trust, credibility and long-term change. By embedding purpose, practicing transparency, and telling authentic stories, businesses can inspire action and shape culture. But as we think about storytelling, one question remains worth reflecting on: How do we strike the balance between showcasing impact and avoiding the dissonance of turning someone's lived experience into a marketing tool? This balance, between impact and dignity, is where true, purpose-driven storytelling lies. And perhaps that is the challenge for all of us, to ensure our stories not only inspire change, but also honour the people at the heart of them.

As the Youth For Change (YFC) program continues to inspire and shape the next generation of leaders, we are proud to share the journey of one of our inspiring participants, Faye. She not only embraced the challenges of the program but also emerged as a key player in her team's victory at the recent hackathon. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the desire to make a meaningful impact on her community. Find out what went down at the hackathon here: A Passion for Learning and Growth From the moment Faye joined the YFC program, it was clear that she was driven by a deep-seated passion for learning and self-improvement. A student with a wide array of interests, she sought out the program as an opportunity to expand her horizons and gain new skills that could help her contribute positively to society. Personal Impact and Growth The YFC program provided Faye with more than just technical skills—it offered a platform for personal growth and self-discovery. These experiences have shaped her into a more confident and capable individual, ready to tackle future endeavors with a newfound sense of purpose. One of the most significant impacts of the program on her life has been the development of a strong sense of social responsibility. She now sees herself not just as a participant in her community but as an active agent of change, eager to continue making a difference long after the program ends. Looking Ahead As she moves forward, her journey with the YFC program has left an indelible mark on her aspirations and goals. The skills she has gained—ranging from critical thinking to project management—will undoubtedly serve her well in her future endeavors. More importantly, the program has instilled in her a deep understanding of the importance of giving back to the community and using her skills to create positive change. In her own words, the YFC program has been "a life-changing experience" that has opened her eyes to the potential within herself and the power of collective action. She hopes to continue her journey of learning and growing, with a firm commitment to making the world a better place. Faye's story is a shining example of the impact that the Youth For Change program can have on young individuals, empowering them with the tools and drive to turn those ideas into reality. As we celebrate her achievements, we are reminded of the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for those who are brave enough to take the first step towards change. Want to be part of the Youth For Change program that shapes future leaders? Discover how you can make an impact and gain valuable skills with the Youth For Change program. Register here to make a difference!