Page 37 - NYAA Annual Report 2022

Appendix 12

NATIONAL YOUTH ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR 2022

The National Youth Achievement Award (NYAA) is a proven and effective self-directed programme
designed to empower young people with self-reliance, perseverance, resilience, and a sense of
responsibility to themselves, society, and the nation. Through the NYAA programme, young
individuals identify their needs and interests, embarking on a journey of self-discovery while taking
charge of their personal development and progress. This transformative process enables them to
make unique contributions by exploring their potential, talents, and ability to impact others in
society positively.

The year 2022 presented numerous challenges, but amidst the difficulties, we also witnessed
glimpses of hope. Although we have not entirely overcome the obstacles, we have made
significant progress. The COVID-19 pandemic threatened our health and well-being during the
year's first half. The NYAA's primary objective was to ensure that the momentum gained in the
pre-COVID-19 years was not lost. We implemented innovative approaches to sustain our activities
while adhering to COVID-19 regulations and restrictions. By leveraging online platforms, we
enabled our young participants to remain active and engaged in the programme.

The pandemic forced us to adopt alternative operating systems, providing young people with
firsthand experience in understanding how a crisis of this magnitude can disrupt lives, particularly
for the less fortunate and vulnerable. We seized this opportunity to deepen our commitment to
helping ourselves and those in need, developing a greater capacity for empathy and understanding
the challenges we must not take for granted. Young participants explored beyond their comfort
zones, displaying motivation to find solutions by working independently or in small groups. They
discovered new interests and acquired life-saving skills such as first aid and CPR.

The NYAA is particularly encouraged by the efforts and contributions of our Operating Partners
and the NYAA Gold Award Holders' Alumni. Alum members took the initiative to spearhead
community projects and leverage new technologies to assist the needy and vulnerable in our
society. Their collective actions inspire young people to understand the true meaning of leadership
and how to adapt and contribute during times of crisis.

In 2022, NYAA organised three significant events. The 30th Anniversary Celebration Dinner, held
in October and hosted by Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies,
Mr Heng Swee Keat, and graced by President Halimah Yacob, marked a significant milestone.
During the celebration, President Halimah Yacob launched the NYAA Junior Programme - The
Butterfly Award and presented Distinguished Partner Awards to five corporate donors and two
outstanding volunteers.

Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19 restrictions, NYAA successfully organised four Award
Ceremonies. The NYAA Gold and Silver Award Ceremony, held at the Institution Tanah Merah 1,
was graced by the Prime Minister's Office, Minister and Second Minister for Education and Foreign
Affairs, Dr Maliki Osman, on 23 November 2022. The NYAA Gold Award Ceremony, hosted by
Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, Mr Heng Swee Keat, and
graced by President Halimah Yacob, occurred on 2 December 2022. Over 160 recipients received
the Gold Award from the President.

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