Sgp Youth Final Debrief Presentation Deck

MTI Youth Study

November 17, 2009

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVESBACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

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BACKGROUND

Youth are the literal future of Singapore.

The broad base of Singapore’s youth are fairly certain of their future(s), and their career aspirations are largely met

within the opportunities available in Singapore.

This qualitative study investigates the fringes: youth whose career aspirations may be harder to accommodate, due

to their unusual or creative interests, or due to a lack of recognised systems to aid their progress.

This youths collective are vocal, affluent, relatively well travelled, and locally educated. They are also ambitious

talented and worldly.

MTI's Futures Group’s interest is to study the “Leading Edge” of youth.

Background & Objectives

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OBJECTIVES

A LIFESTYLE AND ATTITUDINAL INVESTIGATION

To understand the targets’ lifestyles, aspirations, habits and motivations in terms of their lives and work/study/family

etc in Singapore, in order to provide insight into the targets’ ATTITUDES towards Singapore as a place for

their working/leisure lives; their career progression and their futures.

TO UNDERSTAND THE DECISION-MAKING PROCESS

– When and how do they decide on their futures? What are the drivers and motivations?– Where/what is the sense of opportunity in Singapore?

– What are the attractive options (either within Singapore or outside) and why?– Where do they end up going? Why? How do these destinations compare to Singapore?

–Within the decision-making process, to understand the target’s influence spheres in broader terms – be this peer– to–peer; parental/familial; media etc...

TO UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENTIATING FACTORS..

– Are the youth today really fundamentally different from youth of previous generations?– What is the appetite for risk today? What drives/negates this?

Background & Objectives

WHO DID WE SPEAK TO, AND HOW?WHO DID WE SPEAK TO, AND HOW?

This group of youth are a This group of youth are a unique set, they are not the unique set, they are not the ““massesmasses””; they are not the ; they are not the

““averageaverage””... ... they are a group they are a group who are bright, worldly and who are bright, worldly and

enthusiastic. enthusiastic.

We found those who were We found those who were educated, relatively well educated, relatively well travelled, articulate, and travelled, articulate, and

lively.lively.

These were to be the young These were to be the young people who are tomorrowpeople who are tomorrow’’s s industry leaders, industry leaders, a small but a small but representative sample representative sample of the of the

youth who will take Singapore youth who will take Singapore into the future. into the future.

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ATTITUDES & LIFESTYLE

• The larger proportion of the study: those youth who’ve taken, or intend to take, a slightly alternative path in study or career – this usually means creative or humanities-related careers – dance; visual arts; culinary arts etc…

• Retaining a healthy representation of those who are taking a more-or-less mainstream path.

• Driven, talented, energetic, youthful, spirited, worldly.

• With a high potential to study or work overseas

• Potential entrepreneurs

Methodology and Sample

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CORE YOUTH DEMOGRAPHICS• Youth defined as 16- 24 years old• Male and female• Multi-racial• All youth caught at important “Breakaway

Points”

A VARIED AND INCLUSIVE SAMPLE• Inclusion of foreign Asian students studying in

Singapore• Inclusion of Singaporeans working / studying

outside of Singapore (UK; Australia)• Inclusion of SOTA student• Inclusion of 27-year old e-entrepreneur

A TARGET SAMPLE SIZE OF: 23• 14 blogs• 8 ethnographic interviews• 1 face-to-face interview

Additionally: stakeholder interviews were conducted with the MCYS; EDB; OSU and MOE; and expert interviews in the academic and creative fields.


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AN EXPLANATION OF BREAKAWAY POINTS

Respondents were those caught at the various breakaway points. Those who have JUST

MADE the choice of educational or career path, or are about to. The sample is more

heavily weighted on those who are ABOUT to make the choice.


NATIO

NAL

SER

VIC

E

SECONDARY SCHOOLSECONDARY SCHOOL

JCJC

POLYTECHNICPOLYTECHNIC

UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITY FIRST JOBFIRST JOB

FIRST JOBFIRST JOB

BREAKAWAY

POINT #1

BREAKAWAY

POINT #1BREAKAWAY

POINT #2

BREAKAWAY

POINT #2BREAKAWAY

POINT #3

BREAKAWAY

POINT #3

BREAKAWAY

POINT #3

BREAKAWAY

POINT #3

The significant attitudinal / lifestyle differences that emerge in these breakaway points need to be uncovered, understood and leveraged into realistic and tangible

recommendations...

THE APPROACHTHE APPROACH

To engage with this group, we To engage with this group, we had to utilise methods which had to utilise methods which

were upwere up--toto--date, collaborative date, collaborative and immersive.and immersive.

A qualitative study felt A qualitative study felt essential.essential.

BloggingBlogging and and ethnography ethnography were the methodologies most were the methodologies most

suited to this target and suited to this target and study. study.

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WHY QUALITATIVE?

In order to get “under the skin” of such a young target, we need to immerse ourselves in their world – which means immersing ourselves in their world, on their

terms.

Interviewing them in a regular focus group facility felt unreal and static as their lives and their own environments are alive with clues to their inspirations, aspirations and

their day-to-day lives.

Quantitative studies are useful in gathering data and certain type of information, but a qualitative research method will provide the depth, detail and real reflection of the

attitudes and lifestyles of these young people.

…Further qualitative methods are able to visually represent the world of youth with materials from the interviews and blogs.

Qualitative research provides the HOW and WHY, quantitative will only provide the WHAT.

Methodology

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WHY BLOGS?- Emergence and growth of the ‘blogosphere’ is indicative of an era where people are increasingly empowered to create and disseminate their own content

- This trend is harnessed as a research tool with blogs enabling research teams to access people’s lives over a given amount of time

Blogs are particularly good because…

They address the target on a platform that they are comfortable with and speak to the target in a language that they are used to.

They encourage the inclusion of audio-visual material to bring the subject at hand to life.

They provide an intimate, private and personal forum to express yourself.

They allow for time to reflect.

Methodology

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WHAT IS ETHNOGRAPHY?It takes place at the actual ‘site’ of consumer behaviour and decisions – in a bar, in a shop, in a gym, in somebody’s home. It provides a more holistic and nuanced view of what is actually going on.

Actual sites potentially include –

• The consumer in their workplace• The consumer in a social place• The consumer in a retail space• The consumer in their home with their family

Methodology

A NEW GENERATIONA NEW GENERATION

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NEW VALUES AND IDEAS OF SUCCESS AND LIFESTYLE ARISE FROM YOUNG

SINGAPOREANS’ INTEGRATION WITH, AND ASSIMILATION OF, GLOBAL

CULTURE: WHETHER PROFESSION, CREATIVE OR YOUTH CULTURE.

WHILE YOUTH EXPERIMENTATION AND EXPLORATION IS NOT A NEW

PHENOMENON, THIS GENERATION FEELS DIFFERENT IN SINGAPORE, AS

THEY HAVE VASTLY MORE ACCESS TO INTERNATIONAL INFLUENCES, AND

ARE ABLE TO “PICK AND MIX” GLOBAL INSPIRATIONS, ROLE MODELS AND

LIFESTYLE CUES MORE THAN ANY GENERATION BEFORE.

A New Way of Thinking

IS THIS GENERATION REALLY DIFFERENT?IS THIS GENERATION REALLY DIFFERENT?

THIS TARGET IS INCREASINGLY ONLINE AND FEEL THEMSELVES CITIZENS OF A GLOBAL VILLAGE.

THIS TARGET IS INCREASINGLY ONLINE AND FEEL THEMSELVES CITIZENS OF A GLOBAL VILLAGE.

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This target now live in a culture where they increasingly feel anything is possible. The

mass media and the internet are huge, active promoters of realisable success, and

therefore the gap between “’FAME AND FORTUNE” and the “AVERAGE JOE” is that much

smaller.

PASSIONS NOW SEEM MORE REALISABLE!!

Reality and talent shows, and the proliferation of peer-to-peer media (blogs, Youtube,

Facebook, Twitter) are examples where participants are able to achieve success on their

own terms, with their own talents.


ACHIEVABLE DREAMS!ACHIEVABLE DREAMS!

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Examples locally and internationally of this trend of “Achievable Success”…


ACHIEVABLE DREAMS!ACHIEVABLE DREAMS!

Singapore Idol winners Taufik Batiste, and

Hady Mirza

Internationally acclaimed

Singaporean Chubby

Hubby blog

American recording artist Esmee Denters –

discovered on Youtube

American Idol finalist turned actress and Oscar

winner – Jennifer Hudson

Christian Siriano Project Runway

winner.

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…and a young Singaporean who has made his name internationally!


PEER-TO-PEER INSPIRATIONPEER-TO-PEER INSPIRATION

Acclaimed Singaporean Designer Ashley Isham

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The proliferation of online businesses in Singapore – further proof that the internet is a

medium which is changing habits, especially for young people.


REALISTIC BUSINESS INSPIRATIONREALISTIC BUSINESS INSPIRATION

All in all, this generation lives in a world which feels smaller and more accessible!

DEFINING CHARACTERISTICS

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1. THE NEW SUCCESS1. THE NEW SUCCESS

2. ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT2. ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

3. EXPLORE NOT ESCAPE3. EXPLORE NOT ESCAPE

4. FAMILY 4. FAMILY MATTERSMATTERS

5. GIVING BACK5. GIVING BACK

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A SEARCH FOR A MORE HOLISTIC FORM OF “SUCCESS”– More balanced, lifestyle, family and quality-oriented, than materialistic.– Success means achieving material AS WELL AS intellectual and emotional goals: these two are not

isolated areas.– A feeling that a Western view of success is more holistic and inclusive than the Asian viewpoint,

which seems too bound in the material / face-saving aspects.

WITHIN THIS HOLISTIC VIEW: ACCEPTANCE AND VALIDATION OF FAILURE– Understanding that this is a learning curve: failure is an opportunity as well!– Trying to achieve is better than not trying at all.– This feels very new, as this type of exploration doesn’t seem to be part of the current

learning / education system.



“I’m Asian and a student. Success seems to be defined by the university you get into.”

- Miki, 16, Aspiring Lawyer

“I’m Asian and a student. Success seems to be defined by the university you get into.”

- Miki, 16, Aspiring Lawyer

“I think [Singaporeans] are too driven by success for a fear of falling out of the middle-class life.”

- Professor Chua Beng Huat, NUS

“I think [Singaporeans] are too driven by success for a fear of falling out of the middle-class life.”


“My peers from school mostly define success with sporting and academic

achievements. This is the general mindset of most Singaporeans as I feel they define

success with grades alone.”

- Haresh, 19, Passion in Rugby and Aviation

“My peers from school mostly define success with sporting and academic

achievements. This is the general mindset of most Singaporeans as I feel they define

success with grades alone.”

- Haresh, 19, Passion in Rugby and Aviation

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REJECTION OF MYTHS OF “TRADITIONAL SINGAPOREAN SUCCESS”

– The regular icons and methods of success seem outmoded in a world that is increasingly more integrated, less hierarchal, and more diverse.

– “5Cs” and regular but un-inspiring careers (Doctor; Accountant; Lawyer, Engineer…) don’t HAVE to be the ways to succeed.

– Money / the material is important, but as a compliment to an intellectually and emotionally fulfilling lifestyle.



“Sadly society defines success as material success. 1st class honours? EM1? Scholarship? 5Cs? High net worth? I must say it has been ingrained in

Singapore which has a winner-takes-all mentality.”

- Daniel, 25, Entrepreneur in online fashion retailing

“Sadly society defines success as material success. 1st class honours? EM1? Scholarship? 5Cs? High net worth? I must say it has been ingrained in

Singapore which has a winner-takes-all mentality.”


“I feel I’m a special person doing things that people don’t normally do… most want to become

lawyers.”

– Sencai, 17, aspiring male ballerina

“I feel I’m a special person doing things that people don’t normally do… most want to become

lawyers.”

– Sencai, 17, aspiring male ballerina

“I would rather much do something impractical but enjoyable like Journalism than be dulled to

death in something sensible like Law.”

– Zachary, 17, aspiring journalist/photographer

“I would rather much do something impractical but enjoyable like Journalism than be dulled to

death in something sensible like Law.”

– Zachary, 17, aspiring journalist/photographer

25A New Way of Thinking


EXPOSE ME!– Youth are keen to expose their talent not only locally but on a global forum – this seems

achievable, especially through the internet.– …for material, intellectual and emotional gains.

CARVING THEIR NICHE– Able to see a gap in the market, which aligns with their talents.– Singapore is a stable place incubate ideas and inspiration.– Singapore provides the structure, youth provide the idea.

“I am turning 25 and I own a couple of small businesses- a shipping hedge fund, a youths events and marketing company, an online

shopping company and an educational firm.”

- Althea, 24, Entrepreneur

“I am turning 25 and I own a couple of small businesses- a shipping hedge fund, a youths events and marketing company, an online

shopping company and an educational firm.”

- Althea, 24, Entrepreneur

“I started pursuing my interest in design as a career- it was one of the best things I have

done in my life.”

- Si Ping, 22, Graphic Design Artist/ Entrepreneur

“I started pursuing my interest in design as a career- it was one of the best things I have

done in my life.”

- Si Ping, 22, Graphic Design Artist/ Entrepreneur

“I am taking my first step to achieve this dream of mine. Luckily this dream is not bound by monetary constraints. People have come forward to tell me what a great idea it is. This

definitely whets my appetite for success. Of course, there is always that fear when you take the road less travelled?”

- Daniel Lim, 25, Entrepreneur in Fashion Business

“I am taking my first step to achieve this dream of mine. Luckily this dream is not bound by monetary constraints. People have come forward to tell me what a great idea it is. This

definitely whets my appetite for success. Of course, there is always that fear when you take the road less travelled?”

- Daniel Lim, 25, Entrepreneur in Fashion Business



NEW BUSINESS MODELS

– New business models abound, especially with the advent of e-business and online transactions.

– New business models are horizontal and dynamic. They don’t exist based on established hierarchies – youth are able to make their own rules and execute as they feel fit.

– E-businesses, in particular, are the greatest examples of new business models: low cost, no overheads, 24 hours, international etc…

– Examples exist the world over – collaboration; user-generated content; super-bloggers; online retailing etc. these examples are taken to heart by budding entrepreneurs.

– Rather than remaining online some online retailers have reversed norms, and taken their store into real space to compliment their online shops.

– Business now feels POSSIBLE, no longer daunting, or complicated.

“I am taking my first step to achieve this dream of mine. Luckily this dream is not bound by monetary constraints. People have come forward to tell me what a great idea it

is. This definitely whets my appetite for success. Of course, there is always that fear of taking the road less

travelled.”


“I am taking my first step to achieve this dream of mine. Luckily this dream is not bound by monetary constraints. People have come forward to tell me what a great idea it

is. This definitely whets my appetite for success. Of course, there is always that fear of taking the road less

travelled.”




Overseas exposure does not equate to youth wanting to “escape”

Singapore. They yearn for exposure, inspiration and “the thrill of

the new.”

THEY WANT TO EXPLORE, NOT NECESSARILY ESCAPE!

Youth feel the need to travel overseas for different reasons…

“I think, there is no fear in Singaporeans to go out and see the world, you can’t try to tell the youth

“No, don’t do this.” You should try to let everybody see the world. I think those who see the world can benefit society when they return.”

- Chris Lee, Founder of Design Boutique ‘Asylum’

“I think, there is no fear in Singaporeans to go out and see the world, you can’t try to tell the youth

“No, don’t do this.” You should try to let everybody see the world. I think those who see the world can benefit society when they return.”

- Chris Lee, Founder of Design Boutique ‘Asylum’

“Our youths are, by circumstance, more outward looking than Japanese, Koreans or Taiwanese. If

you take the ones who are at least A-level educated, they are very aware of their

vulnerability - this is drummed into them. They are aware of the reality that Singapore needs

the world.”


“Our youths are, by circumstance, more outward looking than Japanese, Koreans or Taiwanese. If

you take the ones who are at least A-level educated, they are very aware of their

vulnerability - this is drummed into them. They are aware of the reality that Singapore needs

the world.”


CULTURE & VARIETYCULTURE & VARIETY EDUCATIONALEDUCATIONAL PROFESSIONALPROFESSIONAL

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CULTURE AND VARIETY– The urge to explore a different culture abroad, bolstered by Singapore’s small scale, and

equatorial weather patterns.– Exposure to non-Asian (most often Westernised) cultures is particularly sought after, as it

provides a very different view of life.

EDUCATION– For many who want to enter alternative career fields, overseas education is essential, as

the level or type of education needed might not be available locally.– This is particularly important for “under-developed” industries In Singapore.– Western cities are considered most highly for education. Due to reputations of established

schools (Ivy League; recognised arts schools etc); and and a logical language fit.

PROFESSIONAL – Professional exposure to markets which are more advanced or less saturated than

Singapore provides impetus to work abroad.– This is particularly important for “under-developed” industries In Singapore.


“Tokyo satiates my intellectual curiosity like only New York does, but perhaps with better food.”

- Jacinta Lim, 25, Lawyer (UK)

“Tokyo satiates my intellectual curiosity like only New York does, but perhaps with better food.”

- Jacinta Lim, 25, Lawyer (UK)



4. FAMILY MATTERS4. FAMILY MATTERS

FAMILY REMAINS IMPORTANT

– Traditional values, but ones which are essential – as the root for this globalised generation.

– Values simply accepted as “the way it is” – no resistance, or aggression towards them.

– The family figures into all major decisions.

– Respect for the family exists, but it is a constant struggle for youth: follow their own path or follow the wishes of their parents.

– Supportive parents instill a sense of confidence and pride in their children.

– However, an obvious gap in parents awareness of their children’s real dreams and aspirations, and their relevance in the modern world.

– In the absence of knowledgeable or supportive parents, mentors become increasingly important…

“All I want to do is cook, but my parents are not open about it… They are very Singaporean, they

just want me to study here…”

“My parents won’t sponsor me to study overseas, so I am saving money by myself. I have to sweat for it every inch of the way, but it feels very good

when you’re there!”

- Iliya, 18, Aspiring Chef

“All I want to do is cook, but my parents are not open about it… They are very Singaporean, they

just want me to study here…”

“My parents won’t sponsor me to study overseas, so I am saving money by myself. I have to sweat for it every inch of the way, but it feels very good

when you’re there!”


“There was an issue with me freelancing. People would ask my father what I am doing, and he would say ‘she is doing part-time jobs’

or ‘doesn’t have a job yet’. I think it is a security thing - they are used to a life where

people go to work, but freelancing was something that I did from home.”

- Faz, 23, Fashion Editor of VIP Magazine

“There was an issue with me freelancing. People would ask my father what I am doing, and he would say ‘she is doing part-time jobs’

or ‘doesn’t have a job yet’. I think it is a security thing - they are used to a life where

people go to work, but freelancing was something that I did from home.”

- Faz, 23, Fashion Editor of VIP Magazine


MENTORSMENTORS

All too often, parents are unaware of their children’s interests and aspirations. More so, they are are often less aware of HOW their children will achieve these

aims.

Particularly in the case of the more artistic and unusual careers, where local industries are under-developed, a mentor can be an inspiration as well as a guide.

A mentor is a role model who has had relevant industry experience, and who is available to guide or provided assistance

to youth on their journey towards achieving their goal.


5. GIVING BACK5. GIVING BACK

GIVING BACK

- A new and emergent value: the sense of social consciousness where youth feel they want to contribute back to their home country, i.e.: coming back home.

- Philanthropic efforts in addition to economic benefits i.e.: via business giving back to the community.

“I feel whatever you do you should contribute to society... I would come back to be an instructor, to educate and teach dance or have a school.”

- Sencai, 17, aspiring male ballerina

“I feel whatever you do you should contribute to society... I would come back to be an instructor, to educate and teach dance or have a school.”

- Sencai, 17, aspiring male ballerina

SINGAPORESINGAPORE


SINGAPORESINGAPORE

Singapore is more than just a home for this youth group, it is a place that annoys and inspires at the same time There are many different viewpoints on aspects of

Singapore – the government, the social practices, infrastructure etc.

Important to note that there are very few polarised viewpoints – this group are aware and accepting of both the positives and negatives of

their home country!

POSITIVEPOSITIVE NEGATIVENEGATIVE

Positivity around:1.Singapore’s / governmental infrastructures

2.Family values which are encouraged locally

3.Safety and security4.A feeling of “belonging” / rootedness

5.Globality of Singapore

Positivity around:1.Singapore’s / governmental infrastructures

2.Family values which are encouraged locally

3.Safety and security4.A feeling of “belonging” / rootedness

5.Globality of Singapore

Negativity around:1.Education system

2.General conservative attitudes of society – especially kiasu-ism, conservative

attitudes 3.Lack of depth and variety, especially in

creative culture

Negativity around:1.Education system

2.General conservative attitudes of society – especially kiasu-ism, conservative

attitudes3.Lack of depth and variety, especially in

creative culture

AND

KEY OBSERVATIONS / WAYS FORWARDKEY OBSERVATIONS / WAYS FORWARD

35Key Observations

KEY OBSERVATIONSKEY OBSERVATIONS

Given all the different values of this group of youth, and looking at the challenges and drivers for different typologies, there are a several key observations which aid

in understanding and activating this target…

NEW WAYS OF THINKINGNEW WAYS OF THINKING ENGAGEMENT WITH SINGAPOREENGAGEMENT WITH SINGAPORE

1. NEW VISIONSOF SUCCESS

2. ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

3. EXPLORE NOT ESCAPE

4. FAMILY VALUES

5. GIVING BACK

1. BARRIERS TO ENGAGEMENT

WITH SINGAPORE(EDUCATION SYSTEM;

SOCIETAL VALUES)

2. GLOBALITY

3. A SAFE & STABLE PLACE WHICH ENABLES WHILE

PROTECTING

4. A MAGNETFOR FOREIGNERS

POSSIBLE IMPLICATIONS…

37Key observations

1. LATERAL THINKING ON CAREER CHOICES1. LATERAL THINKING ON CAREER CHOICES

Education and exposure legitimises alternative career paths: introduce/enforce the concept of a “Career Constellation”.

Education and exposure legitimises alternative career paths: introduce/enforce the concept of a “Career Constellation”.

At the very core – an “artist” – a small % of practitioners who are able to survive professionally.

In the outer rings – the careers which surround and support the “artist” at varying points, with varying levels of involvement.

Allowing for greater involvement from a variety of professional and educational backgrounds and interest brackets.

Dancer

Physiotherapist

Choreographer

Costume Designers

Set Designers

Lighting/Sound Technicians

Theatre Management

38Key observations

1. LATERAL THINKING ON CAREER CHOICES1. LATERAL THINKING ON CAREER CHOICES

THE CAREER CONSTELLATION CAN BE INTRODUCED AT THREE POINTS:

1.Within the education system – career counseling programs etc… as a culture within an institution

2.To the student directly

3.Within the family – education of parents and relative stakeholders

THE CAREER CONSTELLATION CAN BE INTRODUCED AT THREE POINTS:

1.Within the education system – career counseling programs etc… as a culture within an institution

2.To the student directly

3.Within the family – education of parents and relative stakeholders

39Key observations

2. HARNESS THE SPIRIT OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP2. HARNESS THE SPIRIT OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP

“Reebonz.com was started last December and things have been going well and thus I have

decided to focus on it. Nothing beats doing what you are passionate about. Gives you a reason other

than the monthly pay check to go to work everyday.”


“Reebonz.com was started last December and things have been going well and thus I have

decided to focus on it. Nothing beats doing what you are passionate about. Gives you a reason other

than the monthly pay check to go to work everyday.”


The drive towards entrepreneurship is ALREADY well-established, this needs to be encouraged with exposure and financial aid, in particular in blossoming industries such as

online businesses.

The drive towards entrepreneurship is ALREADY well-established, this needs to be encouraged with exposure and financial aid, in particular in blossoming industries such as

online businesses.

40Key observations

3. MENTORSHIP3. MENTORSHIP

“My friend’s mom told me that I can cook better than she can. She wanted to help me out and she got a career consultant to come see me. I cooked for her, and they said I had real talent,

and they want me to help out at Iggy’s - One of the top 100 restaurants in the world. If all goes well, I can apprentice with

him by the end of the year.”


“My friend’s mom told me that I can cook better than she can. She wanted to help me out and she got a career consultant to come see me. I cooked for her, and they said I had real talent,

and they want me to help out at Iggy’s - One of the top 100 restaurants in the world. If all goes well, I can apprentice with

him by the end of the year.”


Utilize a network of industry professionals and successful entrepreneurs to mentor youth from an early age, in particular in more alternative paths.

Mentors legitimise youth interest in a field and provide insight that will otherwise be out of reach.

Particularly relevant for under-developed creative industries in Singapore

Utilize a network of industry professionals and successful entrepreneurs to mentor youth from an early age, in particular in more alternative paths.

Mentors legitimise youth interest in a field and provide insight that will otherwise be out of reach.

Particularly relevant for under-developed creative industries in Singapore

41Key observations

3. MENTORSHIP3. MENTORSHIP

Potential Mentors…

Ashley Isham (internationally recognised Singaporean fashion designer)

Jeffrey Tan (winner NAC scholarship; retired dancer, currently teaching)

Chris Lee (Creative Director / owner of Asylum, currently mentoring in various design schools)

Furqan Saini, Johnny Khoo, Dolphin Yeo – fashion stylists

Justin Low – chef / restaurateur

Beyond these famous names, a possibility to tap into a network of local and overseas professionals.

Potential Mentors…

Ashley Isham (internationally recognised Singaporean fashion designer)

Jeffrey Tan (winner NAC scholarship; retired dancer, currently teaching)

Chris Lee (Creative Director / owner of Asylum, currently mentoring in various design schools)

Furqan Saini, Johnny Khoo, Dolphin Yeo – fashion stylists

Justin Low – chef / restaurateur

Beyond these famous names, a possibility to tap into a network of local and overseas professionals.

42Key observations

4. SUPPORTIVE FAMILY UNITS4. SUPPORTIVE FAMILY UNITS

“It’s just the way it is. My mother still thinks it’s a sin not to use your hands to work, rather than using my brain to create something that

other people can understand.”

- Keith Ng, 27, Founder of Digital Media Company Swoozh

“It’s just the way it is. My mother still thinks it’s a sin not to use your hands to work, rather than using my brain to create something that

other people can understand.”

- Keith Ng, 27, Founder of Digital Media Company Swoozh

Educate and inform the entire family unit, in terms of careers and future choices.

Enable a generation of parents to be in touch with their children’s true needs and hopes in the modern world, and help them understand how to realise those dreams.

(Links closely to the Career Constellation)

Educate and inform the entire family unit, in terms of careers and future choices.

Enable a generation of parents to be in touch with their children’s true needs and hopes in the modern world, and help them understand how to realise those dreams.

(Links closely to the Career Constellation)

43Key observations

5. CLOSE THE GAP BETWEEN TRAINING AND CAREER5. CLOSE THE GAP BETWEEN TRAINING AND CAREER

“I would probably be overseas in New Zealand or Australia studying and getting a degree in Aviation Management

since none of the local universities offer it here.”

- Haresh, 19, rugby player

“I would probably be overseas in New Zealand or Australia studying and getting a degree in Aviation Management

since none of the local universities offer it here.”

- Haresh, 19, rugby player

Offer educational avenues which facilitate a clear career path for more alternative careers.

Partnerships with overseas institutions; financial aid, more grants and opportunities for alternative careers etc.

Equipping young Singaporeans with the best foundation for their futures.

Offer educational avenues which facilitate a clear career path for more alternative careers.

Partnerships with overseas institutions; financial aid, more grants and opportunities for alternative careers etc.

Equipping young Singaporeans with the best foundation for their futures.

At the school level, this is already being initiated with the establishment of SOTA (Singapore School of the

Arts) and SSS (Singapore Sports School).

At the school level, this is already being initiated with the establishment of SOTA (Singapore School of the

Arts) and SSS (Singapore Sports School).

44Key observations

6. EXPLORE NOT ESCAPE 6. EXPLORE NOT ESCAPE

“I visited Tokyo last December during winter for about 10 days. I must say it was the most

interesting 10 days of my life. Tokyo definitely lives up to its reputation as being one of the most vibrant cities in the world. It is a vast metropolitan buzzing with energy. It is a unique mash of the old and new,

traditional and cutting edge.”


“I visited Tokyo last December during winter for about 10 days. I must say it was the most

interesting 10 days of my life. Tokyo definitely lives up to its reputation as being one of the most vibrant cities in the world. It is a vast metropolitan buzzing with energy. It is a unique mash of the old and new,

traditional and cutting edge.”


“In 5 years, I hope that I would be, or have already, stayed overseas for a period of time. I would love to experience life in a difference country- immersing

myself in that culture.”


“In 5 years, I hope that I would be, or have already, stayed overseas for a period of time. I would love to experience life in a difference country- immersing

myself in that culture.”


“Australia has remodeled me into a completely different person - I am

definitely a more independent individual, and my aspirations and drive are derived purely from self.”

- Laura, 22, student in Australia

“Australia has remodeled me into a completely different person - I am

definitely a more independent individual, and my aspirations and drive are derived purely from self.”

- Laura, 22, student in Australia

Recognize the desire for overseas exposure and exploration, whilst at the same time encouraging young Singaporeans to bring this learning and cultural enrichment back home.

They are generally not looking for escape in any case.

Recognize the desire for overseas exposure and exploration, whilst at the same time encouraging young Singaporeans to bring this learning and cultural enrichment back home.

They are generally not looking for escape in any case.

End

Sgp Youth Final Debrief Presentation Deck

Spiritual