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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!

Last year’s Design For Good and New Media Youth Competition  brought together talented young creatives who used their skills to make a positive impact on the community. We were proud to see participants channel their creativity into meaningful causes — and the results were nothing short of inspiring. Recently, we had the pleasure of presenting the winners with their trophies and certificates, recognising their exceptional talent, dedication, and the stories they brought to life through their designs and media projects. Their works stood out not only for their technical excellence but also for the heart and purpose behind them. Primary School Secondary School Tertiary Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) This year, it could be your  turn to shine. The Design For Good  and New Media Youth Competition 2025 is now open, inviting youth with a passion for design and storytelling to submit their entries. Whether you’re driven by social change, inspired by a cause close to your heart, or eager to experiment with bold creative ideas — this is your chance to showcase your talent to a wider audience. 📅 Deadline for submissions: 30 September 2025 Don’t miss this opportunity to make your mark, share your vision, and perhaps even join our hall of winners. A glimpse Into the energy of the competitions New Media Competition Design For Good Competition

Over the course of seven sessions, we partnered with Children’s Wishing Well  to deliver a hands-on digital media programme for more than 20 students . Designed to empower youth through creative exploration, the programme introduced students to iPad photography and videography , while encouraging teamwork, confidence-building, and self-expression. From the very first session, students were guided through a step-by-step journey—starting with the basics in "Intro to iPad" and progressing to advanced topics like video storytelling and editing techniques. Each session layered on new skills, reinforcing the students' ability to see the world around them through a more creative and technical lens. Working in pairs, students practiced peer collaboration—learning not just technical skills, but also how to communicate, delegate, and support each other creatively. Some took turns being the director and videographer, while others brainstormed together to plan scripts and storyboards for their videos. The trainer noted how students gained confidence—not only in using technology, but also in sharing their stories, speaking on camera, and presenting their final works to the group. Many began shy and uncertain, but gradually became more comfortable and even excited to show what they had created. We are proud of the students' progress and grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Children’s Wishing Well on this impactful journey. Creativity is a powerful tool—and with the right support, every child can find their voice and tell their story. Check out the video that they did on Instagram!

Are you ready to bring your cute character ideas to life? Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your digital drawing skills, our Kawaii Anime Character Drawing Workshop  is the perfect way to dive in! Join us for a fun and beginner-friendly 2-hour workshop  where you’ll learn how to draw adorable anime-style characters using Procreate on the iPad . From sketching and inking to colouring and adding kawaii effects like sparkles and blushes—you’ll walk away with your very own digital masterpiece! Upcoming Dates: (choose one of the sessions) 9 September (Monday) or 20 September (Saturday) 2 hours (2-4pm) iPads and styluses will be provided, or bring your own! What You’ll Learn: How to navigate essential Procreate tools and brushes Sketching and refining your kawaii character Adding colours, shading, and cute highlights Drawing expressive features (think big eyes, tiny smiles, sparkles!) Exporting your finished artwork to share or print No experience? No problem! This workshop is perfect for anyone who wants to get creative in a relaxed and supportive environment. 🎉 Special Discount for Our Community If you’re part of our Younite , Trainer , or Changemaker  community— you’re eligible for a special discount code ! Just drop us a message before registering to get your promo code.

Competition, like a double-edged sword, has shaped numerous facets of human existence for centuries. From the battlefield to the trading floor, it has ignited innovation, driven progress and bestowed upon us countless achievements.  In today’s fast-paced society, competition is even more prevalent, from the simplest occurrences of attaining a higher score on a test to the current hustle culture of securing a high-paying and well-respected job. Millions of young people step into the arenas of competition every year, and while the spotlight often falls on the winners, the true value of these experiences lies far beyond the trophy. What Youths Really Gain from Competitions Building Real-life Skills We often hear that students are prepared for the test. After all, school grades closely tie into opportunities in the future, with national examinations determining which schools students go to, for instance. Rote memorisation is often a common studying technique used, so most youths are adept at recall and applying learned formulas. Alas, the world today is fraught with complexities, thus demanding the cultivation of critical-thinking skills. We can’t just use a one-size-fits-all approach; youths today need to have a conceptual understanding such that they can grasp the underlying principles of subjects, to apply their knowledge to unfamiliar situations. This is what competitions can provide, as competitions often simulate real-life problems and challenge students to go beyond the school syllabus.  Catalysing self-growth By setting our competitors as standards to beat, competition motivates youths to constantly set new, feasible and progressive benchmarks to overcome. Just look towards the motto of the Olympics, which is “Faster, Higher, Stronger” – it aptly captures the spirit of competitions, motivating individuals to build that strong will and mentality to continually give their better and best, a mindset that will prompt them to be better versions of themselves. Participating in a competition and seeing feats that seem almost impossible being achieved, youths will see this as a challenge and realise how much more they can actually do if they believe it is possible.  Cultivating Confidence & Resilience Knowing that you can win or lose in front of others, putting yourself out there demands courage. Youths learn how to handle pressure, accept feedback and cope with setbacks through competitions. Not every competition ends with a win, yet each loss offers a lesson: the value of persistence, the importance of preparation and the power of learning from mistakes. Over time, this builds real resilience, and this is essential to navigating the many challenges in life.  Fostering Healthy Competition Not all competition is cutthroat. In fact, when framed positively, it teaches youths how to strive for excellence without tearing others down. Youths can learn to celebrate others’ achievements while pursuing their own, to win with humility and lose with grace. It is pivotal to balance ambition with integrity, to not just win by getting an undue advantage, or mocking others when they are not as strong a competitor.  Unlocking New Opportunities Youths get to step out of their more familiar social and academic circles as they meet, compete and collaborate with other youths from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Competitions also often require public speaking or presenting ideas in front of an audience, which hones communication skills that are virtually required in every profession and sets them up for future leadership skills. Moreover, youths who participate in competitions tend to be highly motivated. Youths will feel inspired by interacting with like-minded individuals and get further clarity on their ideas and skill sets by seeking advice from experts in the fields they are pursuing. Hence, competitions can serve as a springboard to work towards their future goals.  Ready to challenge yourself? If you are keen on venturing out of your comfort zone and joining a Youth Competition to challenge yourself, our Design For Good Competition and New Media Youth Competition are now open for all students to join!  Take the Chance, and Make the Change in your life by joining us today!

In June, we conducted an engaging and transformative workshop focused on voice projection, an essential skill for effective communication. This workshop aimed to equip participants with the tools needed to project their voices confidently and clearly in any setting. Skill Development Breathwork To lay a solid foundation for voice projection, we began with breathwork. Participants learned the technique of diaphragmatic breathing, which is crucial for controlling and sustaining one's voice. This hands-on activity allowed everyone to practice and internalize the skill. Clear Communication Clear communication is key to effective voice projection. We introduced various vocal warm-up exercises to enhance this skill, including: Facial muscle exercises: To relax and activate the muscles involved in speech Vowel activity: To improve clarity and articulation Tongue twisters: To enhance diction and agility Deliberate Pausing Understanding the power of pauses in speech can significantly impact how a message is received. We explored different types of pauses and their uses: Sentence pause : To give the audience a moment to absorb information Paragraph pause: To signal a transition or new idea Rhetorical question pause: To engage the audience and provoke thought Participants had the opportunity to practice these pauses in various speaking scenarios, reinforcing their learning through practical application. Conclusion The workshop was a resounding success, with participants leaving equipped with valuable voice projection techniques. These skills are not only beneficial for public speaking but also enhance everyday communication. We look forward to seeing how these new abilities will empower our participants in their personal and professional lives.

At Make The Change, we’ve always believed in building a future where young people thrive through dignity, learning, and purpose-driven opportunities . So when we were invited to speak on Money FM 89.3 ’s Industry Insight with Lynlee Foo, we were deeply honored. The topic? A growing concern in the creative industry— unpaid internships and hustle culture . “Internships should empower, not exploit.” – Pedro Aguirre on Money FM 89.3 Too often, youth eager to break into creative industries are told they need to prove themselves through exposure, unpaid work, or by taking on one internship after another. But this culture is hurting the very pipeline the industry depends on. The Real Cost of “Exposure” Many students—even those in secondary school—are entering a cycle of unpaid internships in hopes of building their portfolios. This “stacking” mentality contributes to: Burnout and disillusionment Lack of real mentorship Financial strain and inequality of access A devaluation of creativity and innovation What Make The Change Is Doing Differently At Make The Change, we’re flipping this narrative: ✅ We offer fair internships that value young people’s time and skills ✅ We provide industry-relevant training in creative media, social innovation, and EdTech ✅ We champion purpose-driven work —equipping youth to design for good and make real impact ✅ We advocate for inclusive, ethical opportunities across all our partners and clients A Call to the Industry This isn’t just a youth problem—it’s an industry problem. If we want creative talent to flourish, we need to invest in young people with responsibility, equity, and support . 💬 Join the Movement We’re calling on educators, businesses, and social enterprises to work with us to build a better system. If you’re ready to empower the next generation ethically and meaningfully: 👉 Contact Us to Collaborate Together, let’s make the change.