Ouch Pte Ltd reposted this
𝗜𝘁 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗹𝘆 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘀 𝗮 𝘃𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗴𝗲... 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙫𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙜𝙚? At the start of 2024, I was given the opportunity to lead National Library Board’s collaboration with SG Enable for the iconic Enabling Lives Festival. The goal was to bring the festival to Punggol Library in a meaningful way. But the big question was, what programming would truly make a difference for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)? And more importantly, what gaps still need to be filled in the current landscape? As I explored ideas, one realisation struck me: while many programmes rightly focus on PwDs, their caregivers often go unnoticed. Yet, caregivers are the quiet, tireless pillars of support behind every success story. So, why not shine a spotlight on them for a change? Why not create a day just for them? To make this vision a reality, I brought in CaringSG as a major partner to host their CareForward event at the library, alongside other programming tailored for caregivers. Together, we shaped Enabling Lives Festival @ Punggol Library with a focus on Caregivers and Community—two pillars essential to building a sustainable and thriving support system. The collaboration featured a range of programmes, from mental health workshops using TCM approaches by Ouch Pte Ltd to legal and future planning for the “what-ifs” of tomorrow by Peggy Sarah Yee May Kuen. The festival even featured a child-minding service provided by Kaleidoscope Therapy Centre Pte Ltd, offering caregivers much-needed respite and the opportunity to fully focus on the programmes they attended. One of the highlights? The official book launch of “The Healing Journal: A Caregiver’s Path to Self-Care”, written by Julia C. and designed by Amanda Ong. This beautifully designed journal to support caregivers in prioritising their mental health and well-being. Seeing the audience connect with this meaningful resource was a powerful reminder of the importance of caring for the caregivers. The event was graced by Ms Denise Phua and Ms Yeo Wan Ling, whose presence underscored the importance of collaboration and community in tackling the challenges faced by caregivers and PwDs. Their support reinforced the belief that only through coming together as a community can we solve the world’s most pressing problems. This collaboration wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of CaringSG, SPD, SG Enable and the unwavering dedication of Julia C.. Thank you, Julia, for bringing people together and making this event such a success. Here’s to celebrating caregivers—the heart of the village. ❤️
-
+1