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\u201cI came from a lot of privilege \u2013 my family was well-to-do financially, and most of us are well-educated \u2013 so I know I need to give back in whatever way I can,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Volunteering was second nature to her. Besides her stint at the refugee camp, she gave free tuition as a teenager and, as an adult, is involved in events organised by other charities. She also offers corporate advice or mentorship.<\/p>\n
While studying in London \u2013 for a Master\u2019s degree in development studies in 2002 and then a PhD in international history in 2007 \u2013 she found time to contribute to local initiatives.<\/p>\n
\u201cI call myself a \u2018serial volunteer\u2019,\u201d she chuckled. \u201cThrough volunteering, I get to hear a variety of voices and stories on the ground. That was crucial during my studies, and it\u2019s important now, while running a charity.<\/p>\n
\u201cAnd stories are the core of Ray of Hope. When we know someone\u2019s story, we humanise them. Stories make us know someone a lot better \u2013 and I don\u2019t just mean the pity parties; I mean the kind that actually makes us relate to others as people.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen you know their lives, their experiences, the \u2018frivolous\u2019 likes and dislikes, their pet peeves or quirks, it all points to the human they are.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s why more genuine, less sensational, and more humane stories are sorely needed in this field. And though some may think running a crowdfunding platform is already as humane and altruistic as it gets, more can still be done to improve it.\u201d<\/p>\n
At Ray of Hope, the focus on people\u2019s stories shows.<\/p>\n
Founded in November 2012 by Singaporean businessman Danny Yong, the registered charity believes in dignity for its beneficiaries. Since 2019, it has raised over S$26 million, run dozens of campaigns, successfully funded 70 per cent of them, and supported more than 1,200 families in Singapore.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n