This International Volunteer Day (5 December), we celebrate individuals who continue to show up with commitment, patience, and care. Each steady act of support becomes part of the fabric of a more inclusive community.
In this first article of our Strength in Community series, we shine the spotlight on first-time volunteer Navaneethan Sindhuja (Sindhu), whose journey reflects what it means to learn and grow together.
The dock was buzzing with chatters and excitement as a group of clients and their families prepare for a dragon boat training session at Passion Wave@Bedok Reservoir. This was Sindhu’s first time on a dragon boat, and she was hit with waves of nerves. But the cheerful encouragement and enthusiasm from the clients and families helped her ease in, turning this into a joyful experience.
Sindhu (first from right) was encouraged by the clients on her first dragon boat experience.
“Our clients and their families were so excited and brave. They encouraged me to join and enjoy the moment. Seeing their courage made me feel more confident,” recalled Sindhu.
Though the event happened back in July, this moment stayed with Sindhu. On that dock, she experienced a new perspective that changed the way she views volunteering.
“I used to think that volunteering was about helping others. Now, I see it as a two-way experience. I’m always learning from the clients, and it has taught me to focus on their abilities and potential,” shared Sindhu.
Volunteering with SPD marked Sindhu’s first formal step into volunteering. Drawn to the disability cause, she believes that everyone has strengths that can be nurtured.
“I’ve always viewed people with disabilities as individuals with unique strengths and potential, not as people limited by their circumstances,” said Sindhu, who has been volunteering at SPD’s Enabling Services Hub (ESH) at Tampines for over a year.
In her weekly sessions at ESH@Tampines, the 30-year-old works with staff to facilitate activities, build rapport with clients and families, and support outreach efforts.
Witnessing the clients’ progress, be it a small communication breakthrough or a new skill learnt, was the most rewarding part for Sindhu.
“I’ve seen the people I support grow in confidence through the activities we conduct and the time we spend engaging together. This shows the impact of consistent support and care,” said Sindhu.
And just as clients celebrate their progress, Sindhu has found herself doing the same. What started out as an exciting volunteering journey was not without its share of challenges.
“Understanding each individual’s unique needs and figuring out how to best support them was tough as it needs patience and careful attention,” shared Sindhu.
But the learning curve was made easier knowing that there is a supportive team of staff, caregivers and fellow volunteers behind her.
“ESH@Tampines provides a collaborative environment where everyone works towards the same goal in providing the best care to clients,” said Sindhu. “The staff and caregivers bring valuable experience, and I’ve learned many skills from them. Other volunteers are also passionate and dedicated in supporting our community.”
Her enthusiasm and eagerness to learn did not go unnoticed by the team.
“Having Sindhu around makes a difference. She’s always so driven and willing to learn, and she takes the time to understand our clients,” shared Johnson Chia, assistant manager of ESH@Tampines.
“It’s nice seeing how she connects with them, especially when she gently encourages the quieter ones to join in activities like Zumba or art and craft. You can really see the positive impact she has on both the clients and us staff,” he added.
Outside of volunteering, Sindhu is a homemaker who is studying to be a cybersecurity professional. While balancing her studies and volunteering commitments requires effort, Sindhu continues giving back as she noticed the changes volunteering had on her.
She found herself becoming more patient, more empathetic, and more attuned to others’ needs. Beyond skills, volunteering has also re-shaped her outlook on life.
“Seeing how clients face challenges with determination has inspired me to approach my own life with the same mindset,” she said. “Volunteering with ESH@Tampines has changed me indeed.”