Students recognised for being Singapore's young silent heroes

When she was just three years old, Chia Sze En was already accompanying her parents to visit seniors living in rental flats in MacPherson to check on their well-being as part of volunteer work for Lions Befrienders.

- Clay Lim

At seven, inspired by her mother who works in the social service sector, she began her formal volunteering journey with the Singapore Cancer Society.

There, at the society's yearly fund-raising runs, Relay For Life and Race Against Cancer, and other events like Cancer Survivors Day, she helped in the set-up, packing and registration.

One of the fund-raising runs helped raise over $8,000 for cancer patients.

On July 5, Sze En, a pupil of Tao Nan School, was one of the 84 young individuals across 37 schools who received the Singapore Silent Heroes Student Award. Launched in 2023 by the Civilians Association Singapore, it recognises students who led with empathy, selflessness and resilience.

These unsung heroes went above and beyond in service to their communities, from organising donation drives and supporting seniors, to championing mental health awareness and advocating for inclusive education.

Sze En's spirit of care goes beyond volunteering for cancer-related causes.