Page 39 - NYAA Annual Report 2022

Appendix 13

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT FOR THE YEAR 2022

Our Work: Programmes and Activities

Since its launch in May 1992 by the President of the Republic of Singapore, the National Youth Achievement
Award (NYAA) underwent a remarkable transformation, inspiring and cultivating a can-do attitude in over
700,000 young men and women through their self-directed learning journeys. The participation of these young
individuals in the NYAA Journey was voluntary and driven by their heartfelt commitment. The NYAA played a
vital role in building future generations of community leaders for Singapore, employing two approaches that
yielded significant results.

Firstly, the NYAA focused on empowering capable young people to demonstrate concern and care for less
fortunate people. By promoting empathy and compassion, we aimed to uplift individuals more privileged in
life while encouraging them to extend a helping hand to those facing challenges. This approach fostered a
sense of social responsibility and nurtured a community where everyone was valued.

Secondly, the NYAA provided opportunities and platforms for young people from challenging backgrounds
to showcase their potential, succeed, and excel. By offering support and creating avenues for growth, we
empowered these individuals to find their identity and place in society. They inspired others, demonstrating
that anyone could overcome obstacles and achieve great things with determination and support.

Throughout 2022, as the COVID-19 pandemic gradually receded and safety restrictions eased, our community
began rebuilding. With more opportunities for interaction and access to facilities for mass activities, we
witnessed positive developments. However, remaining cautious and prioritising safety while organising mass
gatherings and activities was essential. Thus, stringent monitoring measures were implemented to ensure the
well-being of all participants.

The NYAA leveraged technology to adapt our programmes and activities in response to the pandemic. Many
physical events were replaced with online alternatives, allowing young people to navigate the challenges
posed by the pandemic effectively. We commend our Operating Partners, including educational institutions
and youth/community organisations, for their resilience and commitment to providing young people with
opportunities to excel. We emphasised the importance of exercising caution and avoided rushing the reopening
process until the situation was deemed safe. The utmost precautions were taken to protect the well-being of
young participants in all activities and projects.

Additionally, we were pleased to note the active engagement of our NYAA Gold Award Holders’ Alumni
members within the community. Through their expertise and talents, they continued to support various
institutions and organisations, contributing to the betterment of society.

Despite the numerous challenges faced in 2022, our NYAA recipients and participants made significant
contributions to society. Their perseverance, resilience, and never-give-up attitude made their families,
institutions/organisations, the NYAA, and Singapore immensely proud.

In line with our mission, the NYAA remained committed to empowering young people and nurturing future
community leaders. With the support of our dedicated partners, we will continue to provide opportunities and
platforms for young individuals to develop into passionate and responsible citizens. Together, we could build a
Singapore we could all be proud of.

PARTNERSHIP (LOCAL)

The NYAA Secretariat continued to build and strengthen our partnerships with the government and other
partners such as:
• Ministry of Education (MOE) • Ministry of Culture, Community, and Youth (MCCY)
• Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment • Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF)
(MSE) • Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA)

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