the beginning
MYMCA first met Zhi Wei as an intern of our Resource Development Department in 2024. Volunteer Management was the particular skill he decided to hone, where he was exposed to various programmes.
“I first joined MYMCA as an intern for my university’s credit-bearing requirement. It was through all the behind-the-scenes work that introduced me to the programmes. Seeing how things unfold from planning to practice got me interested in getting involved myself, and I continued on after my internship ended.”
youth empowered!
Throughout his internship, Zhi Wei demonstrated increasing confidence in interacting with various stakeholders and volunteers, witnessing firsthand the real needs of the community.
“I've definitely become more outgoing. All the programmes and events have given me countless moments interacting with youths, volunteers, and other like-minded people - all of whom vary greatly in their backgrounds and aspirations, and allowed me to develop my understanding of society outside of my past bubbles.
I have also gotten more exposed to the many groups in our society that could use our help - which also revealed to me how there are equally many ways in which we can contribute.“
He mentioned that “by giving them responsibility and the chance to prove that they can be depended on”, he felt the assurance that his efforts will be seen and voice head.
communities formed
Zhi Wei continued to volunteer as a youth mentor, photographer, and participant of various youth engagement programmes. He mentions that the family-like atmosphere is what draws him to the Y.
“An inspiring theme that sticks with me is the endurance of the volunteers and the MYMCA team that works with them. For many beneficiaries, the support given to them has to be consistent, which the programmes match in their frequency. The team members and volunteers staying steadfast over the course of months is nothing short of comforting.”
When asked why he continues to maintain the friendship with us, he shared: “I think it's because I already know a lot of the people that I would be volunteering with. It becomes a familiar environment to 'return' to every once in a while. Something I've always valued was how the bond between the volunteers can sometimes spur people to stay involved, even through tough times.”
our youth programmes
-
M.Y Global
As part of a strong international YMCA network, M.Y Global aims to create meaningful platforms to engage, equip and empower youths through cross-borders experiences for rich exchanges and gain appreciation of diverse cultures for positive community transformation.
-
M.Y Mentoring (School & Community)
M.Y Mentoring is a tailor-made experiential learning programme in schools and communities. The outreach focuses on providing a safe and nurturing space for youths to share their experiences, thoughts, and feelings with trained older mentors. Young people will be equipped in mental wellness, character development and community service to confidently navigate life transitions.
-
M.Y Internship
M.Y Internship adopts a strong and intentional approach to equip and empower youths through providing a holistic professional internship and career counseling experience. Youth interns will be mentored in both personal and professional areas to scale new heights as they enter the working world in this 21st Century.
-
M.Y Mindspace
M.Y Mindspace seeks to intentionally engage youths going through different life transition stages to be prepared in this volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA) world through one-to-one and small group mentoring sessions and accessibility to resources