Leap youth give back 2025

1. In a display of intergenerational bonding and engagement, 33 youths from the Leap initiative - a family strengthening programme by Pelita Centre under the purview of the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) - brought joy to 24 seniors at PERTAPIS Senior Citizens Fellowship Home (PSCFH) through meaningful activities and interactions recently.

2. The community engagement highlighted how Leap helps families grow stronger in two important ways. First, it focuses on developing children and youth. Second, it helps them become valuable members of the community. The programme creates a supportive environment where young people from Leap families can help and encourage each other. Through various activities, these youths develop confidence, empathy, and communication skills, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to society.

3. Nurul Darwisyah Binte Ramad, 15, who played a key role in organising the event discovered something important: “Giving back doesn't always mean donating money or items; sometimes, just lending a hand is more than enough. I really enjoyed the experience and hope other youths can be inspired to give back too, whether through their own effort or hard work.” Her experience shows how Leap’s programme helps young people discover the joy of giving back to their community.

4. The day brought different generations together through games and activities. Seniors shared their stories while young people taught them traditional games and helped them with Batik painting. The youth showed great patience and care while helping the seniors learn the art of Batik.

5. At lunchtime, the young girls naturally stepped in to help feed the seniors, treating them like their own grandparents. The seniors, in turn, offered wisdom, with one elder sharing the timeless advice: "Jadi anak yang baik dan taat kepada ibu bapa" - a gentle reminder on filial piety, to be good and obedient children to their parents.

6. The event showcased cross-cultural communication, as demonstrated by Fathima Haziqah Binte Mohamed Hussain, 16, who bridged language barriers by conversing with a Mandarin and Hokkien-speaking resident. "I feel honoured to be part of this activity," she reflected. "I learned how to be confident in myself and communicate effectively with the seniors."

7. The event had a strong positive impact on everyone involved. Every young participant enjoyed their time with the seniors, and many improved their communication skills. The day concluded with a meaningful debrief session at Masjid Muhajirin led by youth members of the Imran Mean (IM) network where they discussed important life values like setting goals, forgiveness, and respecting parents. The highlight came when the youth watched surprise video messages from their parents, touching the hearts of nearly all participants.

8. Mentor, Mdm Siti Nurraisha Salim, 38, whose daughters participated in the event, expressed pride in the youths’ achievements. "Leap is fostering a community of compassionate and capable individuals," she noted, "and I feel privileged to be part of this journey."

9. Working together with PSCFH, and supported by alumni and mentors since April, Leap created an opportunity for youth to grow while helping others. The Caseworkers are especially proud to see how the young people developed leadership skills and formed special bonds with the seniors. The event achieved exactly what it sets out to do - helping youth grow while bringing different generations together.