Across the Singapore Co-operative Movement, volunteers are often the connective tissue between intention and impact. Co-operatives (co-ops) may be built on principles of self-help and mutual assistance, but it is people who give those principles life. Students, artists, young adults figuring out their own futures; these are the folks who choose to give their time anyway.

And perhaps that is the point. Volunteerism within the co-op space is rarely about grand gestures. Instead, it is about showing up, staying curious, and allowing yourself to be changed in the process. Here are three young volunteers whose journeys began with curiosity and who stayed because something resonated.

Esther Yong, 22

Undergraduate, National University of Singapore
Volunteer, Love Empowered Co-operative

When did you first volunteer with Love Empowered?
I started in 2022.

How did you get to know the co-operative?
I was working at Kids Empowered Centre (KEC) as a math tutor. That’s where I was exposed to the co-op side through Tony Lim, who was the co-op’s ex-chairperson and director of both KEC.

Why did you decide to volunteer?
Education is something I value deeply. When I heard that they provide lessons for children with differing needs at more affordable rates, I was intrigued. I stayed because the mission spoke to me. It was heartening to meet people who are so genuine and passionate about the cause, without wanting to profit from it.

What was it like working with the children under “Little Steps, Big Changes” Empowering Communities Fund (ECF) project?
It was refreshing. My day-to-day life is usually hectic and stressful, so this felt like a meaningful change of pace. The children were overflowing with excitement and ideas. What stood out to me was that no volunteer was picky about who they were paired with. Everyone stepped up to look after whichever child came over.

One memory that stayed with you?
During the presentation segment done in collaboration with Republic Polytechnic, one group included a quiz about building a more inclusive society. It was fun watching the children eagerly participate. What touched me most was how kind their responses were. You could really see their good intentions towards others.

Ava Siew Ashokan, 20

Design Graduate (LASALLE); Incoming Fine Arts Undergraduate (NAFA)
Volunteer, A Good Space Co-operative

When did you first volunteer with A Good Space?
My first involvement was in 2019, when I participated in the “A Good Day” event at the Lifelong Learning Institute.

How did you hear about co-operatives?
Through my dad. He introduced me to A Good Space.

Why did you volunteer?
My dad asked me to help with visual recording for a workshop called “The Hidden Pain.”

What was your experience volunteering for the recent “A Good Story” ECF Project?
I really enjoyed it. I met many inspiring seniors with amazing stories. I somehow ended up with a group of very cool and strong women. One was a bus driver who also rode a motorbike. Another was a hotel director who had lived and travelled all over the world. The third was a teacher deeply passionate about lifelong learning.

What was it like speaking with strangers?
It was actually very easy. I didn’t need to break the ice because they did it for me. They have so much life experience and were full of stories and advice.

What were your thoughts at the beginning?
I didn’t overthink it. I just focused on how I could help. I was slightly worried they might nag at me … and they did a little … but it wasn’t bad at all.

And now, after completing the stint?
I think seniors are actually very cool. They are much more tech-savvy than I expected. Many have taken AI courses and are very aware of scams. I was impressed by how strong and independent they are. They can also be quite fierce. When we played floorball, they were extremely competitive and honestly a little scary.

Luna Aw, 28

Customer Success Manager, FitnessTech
Volunteer with SASCO Senior Citizens' Home

When did you and your furbaby Kira start volunteering at SASCO? How did the idea come about?
We started in February 2024. The idea came from a neighbour who asked us to join one of the sessions. Ironically, she didn’t show up herself, but it worked out anyway. I went because it felt meaningful, and it also gave Kira something different to experience. Over time it just became part of our routine.

Why did you decide to volunteer, and how often do you go?
About once a month. It’s a commitment level that works for me. I’m not Mother Teresa. I still have to work, pay bills and deal with life. But once a month feels doable and still meaningful.

My conviction, especially with pet volunteerism, comes from the idea of a kampung. Pet ownership is often seen as something very private. You get a dog and that’s it. But why can’t pets also be part of society?

Pets have become such a big part of many people’s lives. They can also contribute in their own way. With Kira, I want to show that pets aren’t just accessories or luxury items. They can bring purpose and connection, especially to people who might feel forgotten.

What do your volunteering sessions usually involve?
It’s quite simple. I bring Kira around so the seniors can pet her and interact with her. Sometimes we do small drills like “sedia”. The elderly residents have limited mobility, so activities need to be safe and manageable for them and for Kira. I’m still figuring out new ways to make the sessions more engaging.

How does it feel to see the seniors interacting with Kira?
It’s a beautiful thing.

The residents don’t get much outside interaction because it’s a respite home. So when this small furry worm that I call my dog shows up, even once a month, it can spark a bit of joy. That feels like the least we can do for people who are often overlooked.

Kira brought a lot of comfort during some of my own darker moments. I hope that joy can be shared with them too.

Do you think the seniors enjoy these visits?
I’ve never formally asked them, so maybe you should interview them next. But from the way they hold Kira and interact with her, I think they do. There’s a kind of quiet vulnerability in wanting to connect.

I really believe everyone experiences loneliness at different points in life. Children find comfort in toys or imaginary friends. Teenagers find puppy love and emo music. And seniors? Perhaps, they just find comfort in a small dog.

Before volunteering, did you know what co-operatives were?
Not really. I thought it was something like a union.

Has your understanding changed since then?
Definitely. I even learnt that NTUC FairPrice is a co-operative. It’s interesting that businesses can still be profit-driven while having a strong social mission. It shows that the idea of the Singaporean dream can evolve into something more community focused.

 By Sng Ler Jun