The gentle hum of the Singapore Oceanarium filled the air as visitors streamed past colourful marine displays. Amongst the crowd were beneficiaries from SPD’s Enabling Services Hubs (ESHs) and volunteers from Asia Pacific Breweries Singapore (APBS). With communication cards in hand, they set off in groups — ready to explore the exhibits together and get to know one another.
Held on 15 October 2025, the session marked the first event in the second edition of the Worlds Together series — a social impact initiative by APBS that connects communities through shared experiences.
“In a world that can sometimes feel polarised, it is more important than ever to bridge connections that build mutual understanding,” said Ms Anca Olteanu, Managing Director, APB Singapore. “With Worlds Together, we are creating spaces where communities can come together, share experiences, and discover the power of true connection.”
Co-created by APBS, SPD and two APB Foundation scholars, the experience was designed to move beyond one-off volunteering to foster genuine connection and shared ownership. For both organisations, the event also signalled a clear shift: from support to shared creation.
From partnership to co-creation
For over two decades, APBS has worked with SPD to empower youths through the APB Foundation Scholarship for Persons with Disabilities. Today, that partnership has deepened into co-creation, grounded in the belief that true inclusion takes shape when everyone plays a part in building it.
Unlike usual volunteer initiatives, this was not about helping for a day. It was about designing together — asking, listening and learning from one another to create an experience which all can participate in.
“We are grateful for our partnership with Asia Pacific Breweries Singapore (APBS). APBS exemplifies the spirit of inclusion through Worlds Together, where persons with disabilities are engaged in the planning and facilitation of community-led experiences. This collaboration reflects true inclusive planning and serves as a testbed for new ideas in building more inclusive communities,” said Mr Abhimanyau Pal, CEO, SPD.
Inclusion in action
Months of preparation went into the event, as APB Foundation scholars Winston Wong and Raphaella Gautama co-developed the event with APBS and SPD. From developing communication cards to designing a photo-hunting game, the scholars shaped an experience that supported diverse communication needs, added fun and shared discovery, and most importantly, fostered meaningful connection.
“It’s been a privilege to co-design and facilitate Worlds Together. This experience showed how simple interactions can break down barriers and normalise relationships between persons with disabilities and volunteers,” said Winston, who also serves as an SPD Inclusion Champion.
“Many of us have as much to give as we do to receive, and I hope more people will see that and walk alongside us to create true connection for a more inclusive society,” he added.
For SPD, the experience reaffirmed that inclusion is not about special arrangements — it is about building shared understanding, one interaction at a time. This was evident in the smiles and conversations that unfolded throughout the day, as participants grew more comfortable with one another.
It was a day to remember for Mdm Linda Goh and her son, Dylan Hong, 20, who has autism.
“Dylan’s favourite part was exploring the fascinating exhibits showcasing a variety of ocean creatures,” shared Mdm Goh. “The APB volunteers at our table were friendly, patient, and engaging. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to them for being such amazing hosts.”
Her views were echoed by Mdm Chong Chow Yeow, caregiver of 40-year-old Yeo Chang Hui, who has an intellectual disability. This trip was their first visit to an aquarium in a while.
“We enjoyed every moment of it,” said Mdm Chong, whose son attends ESH@Tampines.
“Chang Hui’s favourite part was presenting his group’s handicraft artwork as a token of appreciation to APB. Our table host was engaging and created meaningful opportunities for us to connect with other parents. Thank you to APB and SPD for organising this wonderful event,” she added.
Looking ahead
The Oceanarium session marks only the beginning. Over the next six months, more sessions will be held to continue to spark conversations, challenge assumptions and strengthen shared ownership of the experience.
Because Worlds Together is more than a programme, it is a belief in action. When we design together, we create a world where everyone belongs.
Find out more about upcoming Worlds Together sessions and how you can be involved via https://bit.ly/WorldsTogether2026 today.