National Pride

From teary-eyed moments to sun-soaked rehearsals, the stars of this year's National Day Parade share what it takes to bring Singapore's biggest celebration to life.

- JASMINE ALIMIN

HOSTS

JOAKIM GOMEZ & SONIA CHEW

Joakim, you've hosted the National Day Parade (NDP) for 12 years. What does this mean to you personally?

Joakim: For me, it's a time when Singapore comes together. I know it sounds like a line from an NDP song, but there's something powerful about that one day where everyone puts aside their stress and worries, and just celebrates together. It's a rare moment of unity and something I hope we can always strive for as a nation.

What's your first memory of NDP?

Joakim: Getting the call to host my first NDP in 2012. I was 24 and still serving National Service at the SAF (Singapore Armed Forces) Music & Drama Company. I remember telling my ma'am, “The dancers and singers get to perform—what about the hosts?” She told me to put my name in. When she called back later and said, “Your dream’s coming true”, I actually cried. That moment lives rent-free in my mind. Every year since, I remind myself not to take it for granted. Do it well, and do Singapore proud.

What have been some of your favourite moments thus far?

Sonia: Doing this with Jo makes it extra meaningful—it’s like an extension of our radio show. But beyond that, it’s months of hard work that people don’t always see. Sunburns, off-script rehearsals, changing foundation shades two or three times because we're constantly under the sun... but it’s the collective effort that makes it special. Everyone pours in so much heart. I'm a big believer of hard work, and that’s why it means so much to me.

Have you ever been moved to tears?