SINDA Annual Report 2019

EXTENDING OUR REACH IMPACTING MORE LIVES ANNUAL REPORT 2019

M UN IT Y

CH THEIR PO T E NT REA I A TO L

THOSE IN N G N I EE RT O DO M P P F SU A

S TH

IN RG FO

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TUNITIES F PPOR OR O G ST N I E M P UD O S W I E E R EN ING IM ANC X A YO ST I U SS

N ES OM ST URT I L I URI C RO M A E N F G NG COHESIVE TH ER H IT REL A W S TIONSHIP

EXTENDING OUR REACH, IMPACTING MORE LIVES

VISION

THRUSTS

To build a strong and vibrant Singaporean Indian community together

EDUCATION

MISSION To build a well-educated, resilient and confident community of Indians that stands together with the other communities in contributing to the progress of multi-racial Singapore

VALUES Respect, our culture Integrity, our foundation Service, our promise Excellence, our pursuit

EXTENDING OUR REACH, IMPACTING MORE LIVES

Maximising educational opportunities for all students

YOUTH Inspiring youths towards greater achievements

FAMILY Engaging parents to play an active role in their children’s lives

COMMUNITY Forging a stronger relationship with community partners

BOARD OF TRUSTEES PATRON

TERM TRUSTEES

ADVISORS

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong

Ms Indranee Rajah Mr Ravi Menon Mr R Jayachandran Mr Girija Pande Mr Gautam Banerjee Mr Ravinder Singh Justice Judith Prakash Mr K Kesavapany Mr Viswa Sadasivan Mr Shabbir Hassanbhai Mr Timothy Chia Mr Piyush Gupta Dr Sudha Nair Mr Harjit Singh Bhatia

Dr Vivian Balakrishnan Mr S Iswaran Mr Vikram Nair Mr Murali Pillai

CHAIRMAN

Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam LIFE TRUSTEES

Prof S Jayakumar Mr S Dhanabalan Mr S Chandra Das Mr J Y Pillay Mr Sat Pal Khattar Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam Mr K Shanmugam Dr N Varaprasad

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

MANAGEMENT EXECUTIVES

PRESIDENT

MEMBERS

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Ms Indranee Rajah

Dr Joshua V M Kuma Mr R Chandra Mohan Mr K Ramamoorthy Mr Sarbjit Singh Mr Thambyrajah T Mr Darryl David Mrs Rathi Parimalan Mr Mohamed Nasim Prof Vineeta Sinha

Mr Anbarasu Rajendran

VICE PRESIDENTS

Mr Shekaran Krishnan Mr K V Rao SECRETARY

Mr Sarjit Singh

FROM JUNE 2019

TREASURER

Mr R Subramaniam Iyer

Mr Siraj Omar FROM JUNE 2019

Dr Rakhee Yash Pal TILL MAY 2019

Mr Ramesh Narayanaswamy TILL MAY 2019

ANNUAL REPORT 2019

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Mr Ravindran Nagalingam

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Dear Friends of SINDA, This Annual Report is themed “Extending Our Reach, Impacting More Lives” to reflect what SINDA achieved in 2019.

We have continued to improve on our outreach. All frontline divisions saw a rise in reach with 24,812 beneficiaries helped in 2019 — a 12% increase from the previous year.

We also focused on improving the quality of our interventions. Most of the individuals reached benefitted from multipronged and holistic assistance from SINDA.

Impactful Programmes in an Evolving Landscape We made special effort to connect with younger audiences such as tertiary-level youth, young working adults and new parents — the generations of tomorrow.

Our Youth and Family Divisions found new and innovative ways to reach their audiences by developing niche programmes relevant to them.

One such example is the Understanding Early Childhood programme — a pilot initiative to guide first-time parents on promoting their toddler’s cognitive and emotional development and strengthening parent-child bonds through collective and interactive play.

Other programmes include:

The newly launched Tamil pre-school programme to strengthen participants’ proficiency in the language in a fun way.

Digital workshops for over 1,100 young ones to equip them with the foundational skills necessary for a technology-driven world.

On the academic front, in addition to the STEP and Teach tutorial programmes, Project Guide, a community-based initiative to provide homework support to students, also saw a substantial increase in student enrolment with 40 centres spread across the island.

In 2019’s SINDA Excellence Awards, we saw the largest cohort of students receiving awards for their outstanding performances in the academics, sports and the arts.

Significantly, about a quarter of these recipients were participants in SINDA’s education, youth or volunteer initiatives. We are greatly encouraged that SINDA has served as a positive catalyst for these recipients’ pursuit of excellence.

Renewed Approaches To keep up with an evolving landscape, we have experimented with more creative approaches by rethinking and refreshing our existing efforts.

A good example was the Back To School Festival (BTSF) 2019 which saw over 3,100 students receive school kits for the new year.

For the first time, the festival was decentralised and held in four schools across Singapore, making it more accessible for parents and their children to attend BTSF. Working with community partners and social agencies, we identified about 500 disadvantaged students previously unknown to SINDA. This enabled us to not only provide them with school kits, but to also bring them within our fold and extend holistic support to them and their families.

SINDA’s Door Knocking Exercise continues to be a good way to connect with Indian households and offer assistance to those in need. We worked closely with the respective Grassroots Advisors and Indian Activity Executive Committees (IAECs) to knock on doors, gain access to new beneficiaries and enrol them into our programmes.

Many of them required urgent help but did not know who to approach.

We are happy that we could reach them in time and connect them with the right resources and assistance.

The many heart-warming stories within this Annual Report are testament to the importance of finding new ways to reach those in need.

Strong, Sustained Partnerships Central to SINDA’s efforts has been a strong and dedicated ecosystem of partners, volunteers and wellwishers who are all keen to make a difference to the community.

Over 300 partners worked with SINDA in 2019, with 658 volunteers on the ground to help with our operations. There has also been greater emphasis on working with the right partners, aligned to SINDA’s mission, to achieve positive and mutually beneficial outcomes.

We will continue to expand our network of partners and volunteers to bring in complementary strengths, talents and resources to advance our mission.

Resilience in Challenging Times The effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic are being felt globally and Singapore is no exception.

Our community will work with the rest of the nation to overcome this challenging period.

To ensure the well-being of all our participants and in consultation with the authorities, SINDA had to temporarily cease its face-to-face programmes to minimise the risk of transmission. However, we have introduced an e-learning platform to complement the Ministry of Education’s Student Learning Space (SLS). This platform was piloted in 2019 and offers interactive and real-time video-based lessons conducted online by qualified tutors. Lessons are offered to Primary, Secondary and A-Levels students for various subjects including English, Mathematics and Science. Furthermore, a wide range of topics are available for students to choose from.

While our usual programmes have come to a temporary halt, we foresee that there will be an increase in the number of individuals seeking financial support and assistance.

We stand ready to help and where appropriate, connect them to the right support.

Conclusion Now more than ever, SINDA must play an important role to encourage and foster resilience in the Indian community so that we can emerge stronger together.

Indranee Rajah

President Executive Committee SINDA

SINDA-WIDE REACH

6,847 STUDENTS ENGAGED

TOTAL:

24,812

2,827 YOUTHS EMPOWERED

INDIVIDUALS

8,113 FAMILIES ENRICHED

5,780 INDIVIDUALS RECEIVED ASSISTANCE

1,245 INDIVIDUALS & PARTNERS CONNECTED WITH

EXTENDING OUR REACH, IMPACTING MORE LIVES

SUMMARY OF FINANCES INCOME AT A GLANCE 2019 2018

EXPENDITURE AT A GLANCE

$33,642,801 $26,781,705

2019 2018

$22,507,676 $21,318,272

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES

SINDA FUND CONTRIBUTIONS

$18,870,757 $17,302,977 DONATIONS

$11,254,081 $8,925,317 FAMILY SERVICES

$1,514,899 $1,662,354

$3,465,990 $3,426,313 YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES

GOVERNMENT SUBVENTION GRANT

$3,400,000 $3,400,000 OTHER GOVERNMENT GRANTS

$1,408,959 $1,468,628 PARENT AND CHILDREN PROGRAMMES

$3,574,803 $3,822,544 TUITION PROGRAMME FEES

$1,877,450 $1,796,335 ENGAGEMENT AND VOLUNTEER MANAGEMENT

$143,552 $320,265 INTEREST / OTHER INCOME

PUBLICITY AND MARKETING EXPENSES

$76,552 $60,420 NET INVESTMENT INCOME

$443,464 $560,570 ADMINISTRATIVE AND GOVERNANCE EXPENSES / OTHERS

$6,062,238 $213,145

ANNUAL REPORT 2019

$1,251,902 $1,188,802

$2,805,830 $3,952,307

MAXIMISING EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL STUDENTS SINDA remains committed to improving the academic performance of Indian students. We believe in the infinite potential of each child and seek to ensure that this potential remains unhindered by family, social or economic circumstances.

Through SINDA’s academic programmes, every student is accorded optimal resources for his or her academic journey. Such programmes also take into account each student’s learning ability and capacity, allowing curricula to be customised suitably.

Continuous analysis of the educational landscape and trends, alongside close collaboration with industry experts, allow SINDA to provide the best possible education to students. This prepares them to seize the opportunities of the future.

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EDUCATION STATISTICS

222 STUDENTS RECEIVED ACADEMIC SUPPORT

517

HIGH-PERFORMING STUDENTS AWARDED FOR EXCELLENCE IN THEIR RESPECTIVE FIELDS

225

638

STUDENTS IN THE COLLABORATIVE TUITION PROGRAMME

141

STUDENTS IN TEACH PROGRAMME

STUDENTS IN LANDMARK EXAMINATIONS PREPARATORY PROGRAMME

986 PRE-SCHOOLERS IN ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT PROGRAMMES

4,102 STEP STUDENTS

385 TUTORS TRAINED

16 INDIVIDUALS RECEIVED STUDY AWARDS / GRANTS

6,847

STUDENTS ENGAGED

SONYA KAUR PANDEY, 5 LITERACY AND NUMERACY PROGRAMME PARTICIPANT

After noticing their daughter’s interest in pictorial story books and numeracy-based cartoons, Ranjeev Pandey and Melvinder Kaur decided to enrol Sonya Kaur into SINDA’s Literacy and Numeracy (LYNN) programme. They believed it was the best platform to kick-start their daughter’s educational journey and help shape an already friendly Sonya into a steadfast young girl.

Since attending the pre-school programme, the five-year-old is rarely seen without a book!

Not only has Sonya’s interest in reading grown, she also carries herself with more confidence. Today, the pre-schooler is an enthusiastic learner at LYNN sessions and looks forward to meeting her friends in class. She brings that excitement back home after her sessions and shares what she has learnt with her parents.

With less than a year left before starting primary school, Sonya’s parents believe LYNN has helped build their daughter’s confidence in a journey of lifelong learning.

“ Since enrolling in LYNN, Sonya has gradually grown confident with writing alphabets and identifying numbers; it’s great to see her display so much interest in what she’s learning.

This gives us the confidence that she’s on the right track to being prepared for her primary school education.”

RANJEEV DAVE PANDEY, FATHER OF SONYA KAUR PANDEY

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“ Not only have we improved in our subjects, we’ve also enjoyed learning them with our tutor. She taught us to better manage our time and work smarter. Now, when we see our improved grades, we feel more confident and want to keep improving ourselves to make our parents proud.”

THANCHNAMOORTHY HARIPRIYAN & THANCHNAMOORTHY NITHISH PRIYAN, 13 & 11 PROJECT GUIDE STUDENTS Brothers Haripriyan and Nithish Priyan were both introduced to SINDA in 2018 when they enrolled in STEP tuition. Initially, they struggled to keep up with their peers and their grades suffered, together with their confidence.

It was then that it came to light that the brothers did not struggle with lessons, but instead, could not see what their tutors were teaching!

The two boys were then referred to STEP’s Holistic Care Programme, where they received free spectacles and were also placed in Project Guide with a home-based tutor. This

made a real difference to the two, who could now not only see clearly, but also had the support of a personal tutor to teach and guide them in their homework.

These interventions have resulted in tangible change — Haripriyan improved by two grades in his English, Tamil and Mathematics, while Nithish Priyan made improvement in English in his year-end examinations. These grade improvements have given the brothers a renewed sense of confidence and they now enthusiastically look forward to attending school!

Education Programmes that Nurture Holistic Growth Pre-school Academic Enrichment

BY THE NUMBERS

The Literacy and Numeracy programme (LYNN) provides pre-schoolers with a strong foundation in reading, writing and basic numeracy. Led by trained facilitators, the six-month programme cultivates pre-schoolers’ interest and confidence in reading and numeracy.

986

In 2019, SINDA newly introduced a 20-week pre-school Tamil enrichment programme designed to strengthen participants’ competency in the language through interactive learning.

pre-school children enrolled in SINDA’s pre-school academic enrichment programmes across 35 centres islandwide in 2019.

Both programmes are offered at decentralised and accessible venues islandwide, through partnerships with various community and religious organisations.

A new Primary 1 preparatory programme, READY Initiative, was also introduced in 2019 in conjunction with STEP, to selected Kindergarten 2 students in LYNN. 115 students and their parents participated in a structured 4-week programme where they were introduced to the Primary 1 syllabus, to help them with a smoother transition.

STEP Programme SINDA Tutorials for Enhanced Performance, or STEP, is a holistic after-school tutorial programme for primary and secondary level students. Through small class sizes and customised teaching and learning models, the programme improves students’ academic performance and ultimately, their level of confidence in the fundamentals of their subjects.

As an added feature of this programme, STEP Plus boosts students’ holistic development through skills-based workshops.

Parents of these students also attend regular workshops to equip themselves with essential knowledge and skills to aid their children in their studies.

In 2019, Saadhana A-Level tuition was combined with STEP. This programme focuses on preparing junior college/ centralised institute students and private candidates in core GCE A-Level subjects.

EXTENDING OUR REACH, IMPACTING MORE LIVES

4,102

primary, secondary and A-Level students were enrolled in STEP across 24 centres in 2019.

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EDUCATION THRUST

Teach Programme The Teach Programme is a school-based small-group tutorial programme specially curated to improve the academic performance of primary and secondary level students scoring C-grade and below in their core subjects. It leverages upon a strong collaborative partnership between schools, parents and teachers to improve students’ competency and performance grades.

Students who require additional support with their homework assignments are identified and enrolled into this programme by teachers who serve as SINDA Liaison Officers (SLOs).

Project Guide Project Guide is a community-based homework support programme for primary and secondary level students who may not have access to tuition. At these sessions, students complete their schoolwork in a conducive after-school environment and are mentored by trained and qualified tutors.

638

primary and secondary school students impacted across 40 schools in 2019, through the Teach Programme.

200

students benefitted from Project Guide conducted at 40 centres in 2019.

15

“ I strive to make learning interesting and exciting for my students.

No matter what the learning abilities of my students are, it’s essential that I make them feel comfortable in my classes and support them consistently.”

ROSE MARY d/o BLEEME, 50 SINDA STEP TUTOR Rose Mary has been a veteran SINDA STEP tutor for 12 years and teaches English, Mathematics and Science to primary-level students. Even with a teaching experience of more than a decade, Rose Mary has always been keen to learn better strategies to make her teaching more interactive and interesting for her students.

Thanks to SINDA, she could do just that!

Rose Mary was back in school as a student in 2019, to attain the Singapore Polytechnic’s Certificate in Performance for Coaching (Mathematics), co-sponsored

by SINDA. Through the programme, she learnt strategies to teach the subject more effectively and cater to her students’ varied learning abilities. Group work with her peers also allowed her to learn from her fellow tutors’ experiences in providing the best possible classroom environment and learning outcomes.

Armed with this wealth of knowledge, Rose Mary has seen very practical results at STEP — her cohort of 35 students are now more engaged and actively participate in class. She has grown closer to her students and looks forward to supporting them with a good education for a better future!

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Tutor Development

BY THE NUMBERS

SINDA encourages tutors in its education programmes to undergo continuous training and teaching development.

While preparing them to effectively deliver customised and differentiated curriculum to students, such programmes also update tutors on Singapore’s educational landscape and other relevant trends.

385

tutors received training through various learning platforms in 2019.

In addition to regular trainings, 44 tutors were co-sponsored

by SINDA to attend the Singapore Polytechnic’s Certificate in Performance for Coaching (Mathematics). This training was offered specifically to SINDA’s non-NIE trained tutors and sought to raise their competency in better supporting students in closing their learning gaps.

SINDA Study Awards / Grants SINDA offers several scholarship schemes to students in collaboration with established educational institutions and organisations, to enable individuals to pursue higher studies and upgrade their skillsets.

The following scholarships were made available to students in 2019:

APU—SINDA Scholarship KAPLAN—SINDA Scholarship MDIS—SINDA Scholarship PSB—SINDA Scholarship SAA—SINDA Scholarship SIA—SINDA Undergraduate Scholarship SIMM—SINDA Scholarship

EXTENDING OUR REACH, IMPACTING MORE LIVES

16

individuals received study awards / grants from SINDA to pursue diploma or degree courses.

17

Education Events At A Glance

Tutor Workplan Seminar 330 educators attended SINDA’s Tutor Workplan Seminar where they were kept up to date on academic and student development trends, enabling them to refine their teaching approaches.

Joint Tuition Awards

517 students received their SINDA Excellence Awards from Deputy Prime Minister Mr Heng Swee Keat for their outstanding performance in their respective academics, arts or sports field.

149 recipients from SINDA received awards from Guest-of-Honour Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, at the Joint Tuition Awards (JTA) 2019. The annual JTA is jointly organised by the four Self-Help Groups to acknowledge the academic improvement of students in their respective tuition programmes.

Sustained Improvement Awards

Tutor Graduation Ceremony

The Sustained Improvement Awards 2019 saw 458 students from STEP and Teach Programme receive certificates of recognition and vouchers for grade improvements in their subjects.

44 SINDA tutors graduated with a Certificate in Performance for Coaching (Mathematics) in 2019. The programme, designed by Singapore Polytechnic, equips tutors with techniques to provide the best possible learning outcomes for their students.

SINDA Excellence Awards

ANNUAL REPORT 2019

INSPIRING YOUTH TOWARDS GREATER ACHIEVEMENTS SINDA’s youth programmes develop the potential of Indian youth and guide them onto pathways of growth and success. Specially-tailored motivational and mentorship programmes enable our youth to build positive values, develop good character and boost their self-esteem.

This enables them to thrive in positive peer circles and grow into confident and capable adults.

The leadership programmes offered by SINDA provide a journey of self-discovery to youth with leadership potential. At these programmes, participants undergo sustained leadership training, partake in conversations revolving around national and community themes and propose creative solutions to thematic issues.

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YOUTH STATISTICS

283

2,040

YOUTHS WERE PART OF SINDA’S SPORTS PROGRAMMES

VISITS TO THE SINDA YOUTH HUB

217

260

334

PARTICIPANTS ENGAGED THROUGH WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARS

ITE STUDENTS ENGAGED

YOUTHS MENTORED THROUGH SKILLS-BASED PROGRAMMES

715

601

YOUTHS IN MOTIVATIONAL & CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES

PARTICIPANTS IN HOLIDAY ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES

2,827

136 YOUTHS FROM JUNIOR COLLEGES, POLYTECHNICS AND ITE UNDERWENT SUSTAINED LEADERSHIP TRAINING

YOUTHS EMPOWERED

21

“ I’m very thankful for the self-development opportunities I’ve gotten through SINDA programmes. The many SINDA youth awards I have received have made me believe in myself more and I feel motivated to go on and achieve greater things!”

S KAVISHKA SUDESH MADHUSHANKA, 19 ITE COLLEGE CENTRAL STUDENT

SINDA’s ITE Aspire and Guidance and Mentorship (GAME) are just some programmes that have played a key role in deterring Kavishka Sudesh Madhushanka from going wayward and falling into the hands of bad company. Knowing that such programmes are available to youth for self-development and character-building, he was quick to enrol himself and use them as meaningful platforms.

A SINDA youth since his secondary school days, Kavishka has become more self-aware over the years — honing his leadership skills, enhancing resilient-thinking and understanding the importance of teamwork through countless programmes. His efforts to better himself paid off when he was selected to be one of only ten students from his ITE course to complete a three-week overseas student exchange programme at Tangshan Polytechnic College in China in 2018. Today, the 19-year-old is a proud Peer Leader in SINDA’s programmes, guiding his fellow participants to believe in themselves and seize unlimited opportunities.

Positive Youth Programmes that Inculcate Values Guidance and Mentorship

BY THE NUMBERS

The Guidance and Mentorship programme, popularly known as GAME, is an interest-based mentorship programme for youth aged 13–21. By coming together in a supportive and positive environment, youth participants engage in interactive skills-learning activities led by trained youth facilitators.

The programme also serves as a platform for them to explore their inherent talents while developing their self-confidence, resilience and leadership abilities.

208

In 2019, each GAME variant was conducted as a 4-week programme, offering participants a variety of interest-based learning to partake in — performing arts, entrepreneurship and digital literacy, among others.

ITE Aspire ITE Aspire is a weekly school-based programme focused on cultivating aspirations so that ITE Indian students remain engaged in school and complete their academic courses.

Held across all ITE College campuses, the programme incorporates motivational elements and enrichment to equip participants with life skills, along with introducing values such as resilience and respect to keep them motivated throughout their academic journey.

Mentorship was introduced into ITE Aspire in 2019, offering the programme’s alumni an opportunity to guide and motivate their juniors.

EXTENDING OUR REACH, IMPACTING MORE LIVES

youths benefitted from the various GAME workshops in 2019.

92%

of participants displayed positive behaviour and were able to interact more confidently with their peers.

46

students benefitted from ITE Aspire in 2019, with schools noting a 66% improvement in their confidence levels.

23

YOUTH STATISTICS

Youth Victory Youth Victory is a 5 or 10-week structured motivational programme conducted in schools and STEP centres to enhance secondary school students’ self-esteem and life skills. Through interactive activities that promote character development, students are nurtured into confident and resilient individuals.

661

participants across 6 schools and 20 STEP centres were impacted by Youth Victory.

Additionally, the programme features short modular courses for students where crucial study techniques and exam preparation skills are taught to help them improve in their studies.

SINDA Youth Hub The SINDA Youth Hub at Jurong Point Shopping Centre serves as a conducive space for students to study in as well as for youth to spend their time engaging in meaningful and positive activities.

The space also hosts monthly activities to foster stronger networking opportunities among youth participants.

The Youth Hub functions as a bridge, linking visitors to many other programmes and services offered by SINDA. In 2019, engagement activities were held at the Youth Hub on a monthly basis, which encouraged existing youth participants to introduce their peers to SINDA.

2,040

visits to the SINDA Youth Hub in 2019.

25

“SYLP has given me that first opportunity to be exposed to the real world and understand how organisations and corporations function.

It’s a great stepping stone for youth who are keen about giving back to the society and want to hone their leadership skills in the process.”

PRANAV KRISHNA PRASAD, 19 SINDA YOUNG LEADERS PROGRAMME PARTICIPANT

Pranav has always been passionate about helping the community, but never knew where to look for the resources to turn his ideas into reality. This changed when he joined the SINDA Youth Club’s flagship programme, the SINDA Young Leaders Programme (SYLP) in 2019. SYLP was an opportunity for him to serve the community and it provided him with resources to begin his first Ground-Up Initiative (GUI), ‘Foodshare Inc’ — a platform for people to collect and distribute unwanted food to those in need.

Being the team leader, Pranav’s self-confidence grew as he worked tirelessly with his group to start off this GUI. Through SYLP, he also improved his networking skills which landed him the opportunity to join the Youth Action Challenge by the National Youth Council.

His effort paid off when ‘FoodShare Inc’ received a $5,000 grant to run the GUI and today, they are in the midst of operationalising their pilot project. Pranav also contributes back to SYLP as a mentor, hoping to inspire more youth to come forward and devise creative solutions that benefit the community.

Empowerment Programmes that Groom Future Leaders SINDA Young Leaders Programme

BY THE NUMBERS

The SINDA Young Leaders Programme (SYLP) by the SINDA Youth Club develops young leaders into active contributors in the community, eventually developing them into exemplary social leaders. In this five-month programme, youth exchange ideas with like-minded peers and collaborate with community organisations of their choice, to design and execute meaningful and impactful Ground-Up Initiatives (GUIs) which address the needs of the community. In 2019, systems-thinking and social-emotional learning modules were also introduced to further enhance participants’ leadership abilities.

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ITE Leadership Programme

26

The ITE Leadership Programme (ITELP) is a five-month leadership programme that cultivates Indian ITE students into effective leaders, by aiding their development and affording them opportunities to conceptualise and execute projects for social good. Having completed its fifth year, ITELP is part of a series of ITE-specific programmes that the SINDA Youth Club has introduced to benefit students.

SINDA Sports Programmes The SINDA Sports Initiative (SPIN) is a five-month programme for youth to participate and cultivate their mental, social and physical well-being. Participants are encouraged to sustain an active and healthy lifestyle by taking part in unique team sports and adopting a balanced diet.

Also focused on promoting a healthy lifestyle is the SINDA Football Club (SFC) — a football-based mentorship programme for both boys and girls to develop their core values of discipline, resilience and commitment. Through SFC, participants also attend various awareness talks on youth issues and learn to develop a positive outlook in life.

EXTENDING OUR REACH, IMPACTING MORE LIVES

participants benefitted from SYLP in 2019.

participants were enrolled into ITELP 2019.

283

youths were part of SINDA’s Sports Programmes in 2019.

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Youth Events At A Glance

SINDA Youth Awards The 6th edition of the SINDA Youth Awards recognised 200 youths who demonstrated significant character development, strong leadership, or showed firm commitment towards SINDA’s youth programmes.

Youth Engagement Programme In 2019, monthly activities were organised for youth to develop their interests and bond with their peers. Activities such as in-line skating ensured youth spent their time in a fun and engaging way.

Youth Dialogue Sessions SINDA Young Leaders Programme (SYLP) 13 youths from SYLP embarked on a study trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand, and worked with social enterprises and NGOs to better understand social issues. They then devised solutions and initiatives to address social issues in Singapore.

ANNUAL REPORT 2019

Two inaugural youth dialogues were organised by the SINDA Youth Club in 2019 for youth aged 18–25 — the Indian Youth Conference and Puthiya Paarvai. These dialogues were platforms for individuals and youth organisations to come together, better understand the needs of the community and collectively discuss innovative and constructive solutions to these. These dialogue sessions also provided invaluable networking opportunities to participants for the lively flow of ideas!

ENGAGING PARENTS TO PLAY AN ACTIVE ROLE IN THEIR CHILDREN’S LIVES With the firm belief that a strong family unit positively impacts a child’s development, SINDA strives to nurture cohesive and resilient families for a better future.

A variety of programmes, aimed at parents, children, or both, offer experiential learning so that families can grow closer together and be supportive of one another’s growth and progress. SINDA’s family programmes also offer a supportive environment for disadvantaged parents — such as single or incarcerated parents — offering them avenues to rebuild their lives and provide the best possible resources to their children.

SINDA’s family-focused endeavours are further supported by the SINDA Family Service Centre (SFSC), which continues to benefit the community through social work and family assistance schemes.

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FAMILY STATISTICS

CHILDREN ATTENDED ENRICHMENT WORKSHOPS

2,002 MOTHERS AND CHILDREN EMPOWERED THROUGH PROJECT ATHENA

282

PARENTS BENEFITTED FROM PARENTING WORKSHOPS

3,713 INDIVIDUALS ENGAGED THROUGH FAMILY BONDING ACTIVITIES

691

8,113 FAMILIES BENEFITTED FROM INFORMATION AND REFERRAL SERVICES

1,436 FAMILIES RECEIVED CELEBRATE! FESTIVE GIFT VOUCHERS

1,159

CLIENTS AND FAMILY MEMBERS SUPPORTED THROUGH CASEWORK

1,825 SCHOOL KITS DISTRIBUTED

3,143

5,780

PRE-SCHOOLERS ENGAGED

BOOK AND SHELF BENEFICIARIES

795 HELLO BABY HAMPERS DISTRIBUTED

100 PARTICIPANTS IN SINDA’S DAD’S JOURNEY PROGRAMME

333

197

CHILDREN AND PARENTS ENRICHED

STUDENTS RECEIVED EDUCATION-RELATED FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

INDIVIDUALS RECEIVED HELP THROUGH SINDA’S PARTNER ORGANISATIONS

974

820

INDIVIDUALS ASSISTED THROUGH THE PRISON OUTREACH PROGRAMME

ELDERLY BEFRIENDERS PROGRAMME (PILOT

53

21

PROGRAMME IN 2019)

INDIVIDUALS RECEIVED ASSISTANCE

NAGAPPAN ALAGAPPAN, 49 PARTICIPANT, DAD’S JOURNEY PROGRAMME

When Nagappan came to know that SINDA was offering workshops specifically for fathers, he signed up for it immediately! He was looking forward to learning more about the various stages of child development and how he could better support his children in their journey. His first session at SINDA’s Dad’s Journey programme was enjoyable and more importantly, an eye-opening experience that helped him reflect and evaluate his role and importance as a father.

Learning various skills and picking up tips throughout the workshop proved useful to Nagappan in strengthening his relationship with his daughters. He now feels much more confident in being an approachable father who understands their needs better and attends to them. Keen to partake in many more programmes to enhance his parenting style, Nagappan looks forward to being a role model to his daughters.

“ The Dad’s Journey programme has improved my parenting techniques and bettered my relationship with my daughters. Such programmes help us identify areas for change and these small refinements go a long way in enhancing the father-child bond we build.”

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LUKESH s/o TERRENCE JESSEN & LOHENDRA s/o TERRENCE JESSEN, 9 DIGITAL LITERACY PROGRAMME PARTICIPANTS

Nine-year-old twin brothers Lukesh and Lohendra were very excited when their mother enrolled them into SINDA’s digital literacy programme! Their mother saw the programme as an opportunity for the boys to have an early start in learning about technology and understanding the role of technology in our lives.

In the programme for two years, the brothers look forward to going for their classes because they get to work on projects and present them. This has expanded their creative capacity while enhancing their knowledge in STEM — Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. The boys also make it a point to share what they have learnt in class with their mother, which encourages her to enrol them in more digital literacy-related programmes to further develop their passion.

“ We love going for our digital literacy classes and have learnt so much from them.

Presenting our projects and sharing our ideas is something we like a lot.

It’s fun to try different things during classes!”

Family Programmes that Strengthen Bonds Children Enrichment & Digital Literacy

BY THE NUMBERS

Children enrichment workshops centred around show-andtell, speech and drama and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), are offered to pre-schoolers and primary school students. In addition to providing participants with holistic learning opportunities, these programmes are designed to pique the curiosity of young ones and encourage them to explore the environment around them from a young age.

2,797

children took part in enrichment workshops and digital literacy programmes in 2019.

A number of digital literacy initiatives held for different age groups promote the development of participants’ computational skills and their interest in technology-based learning and careers.

Hello Baby Gift Bundle Aimed at supporting parents with newborns up till 12 months old, the Hello Baby Gift Bundle offers items that give young ones a head start in active learning through play. The bundle also promotes positive parenting and encourages them to be more involved in their child’s life. The Hello Baby initiative also serves as a touch point for parents with newborns to learn about SINDA’s programmes and the support available throughout their child’s developing years.

Equal Opportunity Fund The Equal Opportunity Fund is a scheme for Indian children and youth, aged between 3–25 years old, to attend enrichment classes in the arts, music and sports fields that may not have been otherwise possible due to financial constraints.

EXTENDING OUR REACH, IMPACTING MORE LIVES

333

gift bundles were distributed in 2019.

47

students in various SINDA programmes benefitted from this fund in 2019 and more than 90% of them chose to continue onto the second year of this scheme.

33

FAMILY THRUST

Parenting Workshops & Dad’s Journey Programme Parenting programmes are conducted by SINDA to equip parents with essential skills to establish stronger bonds with their children and be effective companions in their academic and socio-emotional growth.

Through learning positive parenting approaches, parents are better able to cultivate stable and self-sufficient families.

SINDA also conducts the Dad’s Journey Programme to emphasise the importance of a father-child relationship and coach fathers in improving their bonds with their children.

Project Athena Project Athena equips single mothers with the necessary skills to become self-sufficient and resilient. The programme also hopes to empower mothers to raise their children with confidence. Through counselling and group therapy, trained social workers guide mothers and their children in overcoming challenges so as to lead meaningful lives together as a family.

Family Bonding SINDA organises regular motivational and enrichment programmes throughout the year to nurture children’s continued learning and help develop them to their fullest potential. These programmes also encourage greater parental involvement in children’s lives.

Opportunities for families to build stronger bonds are aplenty as they are given opportunities to spend time together, understand one another better and grow as a family unit.

3,910

parents benefitted from various parenting programmes by SINDA in 2019: POSITIVE PARENTING UNDERSTANDING EARLY CHILDHOOD PRIMARY 1, SECONDARY 1 AND POST-SECONDARY STARTER SERIES DAD’S JOURNEY PROGRAMME PARENT ENGAGEMENT WORKSHOPS

282

single mothers and children benefitted from Project Athena in 2019.

691

individuals were engaged through 17 family bonding sessions in 2019.

35

“ I’ve become a

confident caregiver to my grandchildren, thanks to the support and guidance SINDA gave me at every step of the way. I worry less now and focus my energy on building a happy and positive home environment for them.”

KALA DEVI d/o M. KRISHNAN, 62 SINDA BENEFICIARY

It was not easy for 62-year-old Kala Devi to stomach the fact that she needed to be the primary caregiver to her two grandchildren and provide for them as well. Her single income was insufficient to manage all their expenses and she lacked the knowledge and skills to parent kids in this day and age. Although she was anxious about her various challenges, she was unfazed and knew she could get through them with the right help.

Kala approached SINDA and was immediately assisted by the SINDA Family Service Centre (SFSC). Both her grandchildren, aged 9 and 13, were offered the SINDA bursary to offset some of her financial burdens. Kala herself received aid in the form of counselling to cope with her emotional and caregiving stresses. Through SFSC, she also found employment that allowed her to balance work with her caregiving needs.

Today, Kala is a proud grandmother who enjoys strong bonds with her grandchildren. She is thankful for the assistance she has received and knows that the community has her back, in times of difficulties.

Assistance to Support our Community Casework & Assistance The SINDA Family Service Centre (SFSC) impacts the community through information and referral services, casework, counselling, as well as, social and education-related assistance schemes.

SINDA’s social work practitioners provide support in areas including parenting, marriage, financial planning, domestic violence and interpersonal issues. This help clients to be equipped with the right knowledge, skills and resources to overcome challenges and become self-sufficient.

Education-related Assistance Schemes:

Information & Referral: 1,436 families Casework & Counselling: 1,825 clients and family members Prison Outreach: 53 clients Other Assistance: 79 clients

Pre-school Bursary: 119 students SINDA Bursary: 648 primary and secondary students Post-Secondary Bursary: 198 students Before and After School Care Subsidy: 9 students Back to School kits: 3,143 students

Assistance jointly offered with partner organisations:

In 2019, SFSC offered the following services to the community:

Comcare (with MSF): 53 clients Home Access (with IMDA): 100 households NEU PC Plus (with IMDA): 258 students Singapore Press Holdings Foundation: 400 households The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund: 62 students

Elderly Befrienders Programme

BY THE NUMBERS

The Elderly Befrienders programme engages seniors through meaningful outdoor engagements to aid their social and emotional well-being. Such social engagements with befrienders help the elderly overcome issues such as loneliness, improve their mental well-being and empower them to forge new friendships with the wider community.

21

Celebrate! Festive Gift Vouchers

1,159

SINDA spreads festive cheer to low-income families by gifting them vouchers during their respective festive holidays — Hari Raya Puasa, Deepavali and Christmas. These vouchers, valued at $100 each, are distributed to families’ doorsteps by a network of volunteers comprising individuals as well as corporate and religious organisations.

EXTENDING OUR REACH, IMPACTING MORE LIVES

elderly were engaged by 13 befrienders in this pilot programme.

gift vouchers were distributed to underprivileged families in 2019.

37

Family Events At A Glance

Big Heart Student Care Centre SINDA President Ms Indranee Rajah, together with SINDA Board Members, visited the Big Heart Student Care Centre at Lianhua Primary School to interact with participants. Initiated in 2015, the Big Heart Student Care provides students with conducive afterschool care. In 2019, 111 Indian students were enrolled in 24 centres.

Activities for the Whole Family A number of activities organised by SINDA throughout the year — from enrichment workshops for kids to family bonding activities — helped numerous families grow closer together through participating in interactive activities.

Project Athena Mother’s Day Celebration 137 mothers and children shared affirmations of love and strengthened their bonds at a special Mother’s Day dinner, organised in conjunction with the Project Athena programme.

SINDA Digital Day

Back To School Festival

The inaugural SINDA Digital Day was held in 2019 to engage entire families, from pre-schoolers to parents, to boost their expertise in digital literacy. While parents attended digital-themed workshops, children competed in coding competitions.

The annual Back To School Festival saw its largest number of recipients in 2019. Held over four days across various locations in Singapore, 3,143 students and their families enjoyed carnival-like celebrations and received vouchers in preparation for the new school year.

ANNUAL REPORT 2019

FORGING A STRONGER RELATIONSHIP WITH COMMUNITY PARTNERS Meaningful partnerships with community, grassroots, religious and ethnic groups enhance and strengthen SINDA’s efforts for the wider community. The resources and expertise of such partners enable us to connect better with individuals and maximise outreach.

SINDA also works closely with volunteers from all walks of life and of all ages as volunteer-driven efforts are key to many programmes and services offered by the organisation. Undertaking a variety of services on behalf of SINDA — from managing the smooth operation of programmes to attending Door Knocking Exercises — SINDA’s community of volunteers serve as ambassadors who champion the organisation’s efforts on the ground.

39

COMMUNITY STATISTICS

205 HOUSEHOLDS CONNECTED WITH, THROUGH DOOR KNOCKING

62 COMMUNITY PARTNERS ENGAGED THROUGH TOWNHALL MEETINGS

658

320

VOLUNTEERS

PARTNERS COLLABORATED WITH SINDA

1,245

INDIVIDUALS AND PARTNERS CONNECTED WITH

OTHER ENGAGEMENTS

129

INDIAN BUSINESS-LEADERS’ ROUNDTABLE (IBR) MEMBERS

ANNUAL REPORT 2019

258

EDUCATORS SERVED AS SINDA LIAISON OFFICERS (SLOs) IN THEIR RESPECTIVE SCHOOLS

5,770

VOLUNTEER HOURS TOWARDS SINDA PROGRAMMES AND SERVICES

RAJENDRAM RAJOO, 49 CHAIRPERSON, ZHENGHUA COMMUNITY CENTRE, INDIAN ACTIVITY EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, NARPANI PEARAVAI COMMUNITY PARTNER

As Chairperson for the Zhenghua Community Centre Indian Activity Executive Committee (IAEC), Rajendram has been a passionate SINDA community partner over the years. He introduced several SINDA programmes such as LYNN, Project Guide and reading programmes in his community centre. Rajendram has also benefitted families in his neighbourhood by working with SINDA to visit and assist with their needs, through the Door Knocking Exercise.

Having always been passionate about helping his community, Rajendram goes the extra mile by identifying and referring residents who require help to SINDA’s Family Service Centre. Like many other partners, Rajendram’s unwavering dedication to the community has been pivotal to SINDA expanding its outreach efforts and impacting the lives of those in need.

“ Witnessing my residents having fun at programmes and seeing individuals and families benefit from my efforts is rewarding and keeps me going.

By offering them services together with SINDA, I hope to inspire others to help the community. We are all one and must look after each other.”

41

“ Working hand in hand with SINDA is something both organisations are happy about and will continue to further. When resources are pooled together for the betterment of the Indian community, the benefits are aplenty, as seen by this partnership!”

INDARJEET KAUR, 67

BALJIT SINGH, 59

PRINCIPAL, SINGAPORE SIKH EDUCATION FOUNDATION KINDERGARTEN

PRESIDENT, CENTRAL SIKH GURDWARA BOARD

COMMUNITY PARTNER

COMMUNITY PARTNER

The Central Sikh Gurdwara Board (CSGB) and the Singapore Sikh Education Foundation (SSEF) Kindergarten have been staunch partners of SINDA over the years, in reaching out to and benefitting the Indian community.

Among other partnerships, CSGB and SSEF Kindergarten have been active in running SINDA’s Literacy and Numeracy (LYNN) programme for pre-schoolers. This two-year partnership has been the result of both organisations’ aim to ensure young ones are adequately prepared for formal schooling. While CSGB has provided a conducive environment for the smooth-running of LYNN classes and logistical support, SSEF Kindergarten has been active in

reaching out to parents and impressing upon them the benefits of the programme — growth that their pre-schoolers will experience academically and skills-wise.

These partners’ concerted efforts have paid off, as feedback from parents is nothing short of fantastic! Parents shared that LYNN classes have helped strengthen their children’s grasp of literacy and numeracy skills and they are now more confident that their child will have a smooth transition into Primary 1. Having witnessed such positive results, both partners are enthusiastic to continue with this programme so that every Indian child can be nurtured into a confident and capable learner!

Partnerships for the Betterment of the Community Ground Engagements

Project Give

Ground engagements play a crucial role in reaching out to the Indian community. Through close collaborations with grassroots and community organisations, SINDA has been able to engage more individuals in the Indian community. As a result, there has been greater awareness on SINDA’s programmes and services and more individuals in need of help have been identified and assisted.

Project Give (PG) has been SINDA’s flagship fundraising campaign since 2001 in support of the educational and financial needs of Indian students.

The campaign, which runs through the year, is heightened during Deepavali to encourage the community to remember the less fortunate during the festive season and contribute generously.

The Door Knocking Exercise is one such initiative to strengthen engagement and gain a better understanding of the needs of Indian families.

Leading these efforts were SINDA volunteers, specially trained to engage with and identify the needs of families. Where necessary, families were referred to SINDA for deeper intervention.

Last year, 15 constituencies were engaged, with 205 Indian families benefitting from visits.

The PG 2019 campaign focused on stronger engagement of the Indian community and raising greater awareness of SINDA’s programmes and services.

The SINDA Bus, launched in 2018, also enhances the ground engagement approach further. Samplers of SINDA’s programmes such as reading classes, coding workshops and craft activities have been conducted on board the Bus during events.

In 2019, the SINDA Bus was deployed to 43 events.

The SINDA Community Impact Fund The SINDA Community Impact Fund (SCIF) supports innovative, ground-up solutions that generate positive and sustainable social impact upon the Singaporean Indian community. In addition to SINDA’s efforts, SCIF provides seed funding to individuals and organisations to benefit key groups — pre-schoolers, students, youths, parents, families and the elderly.

2019 saw SCIF funding granted to two inaugural recipients: Club2Care and Autism — Partnering Your Journey initiatives.

EXTENDING OUR REACH, IMPACTING MORE LIVES

Club2Care channelled its funding towards mental health screening, educational outreach and developing unique mental health programmes catered to the Indian community.

Autism — Partnering Your Journey focused on helping lower-income Indian families with autistic children, by providing parents with a deeper understanding of autism issues and practical strategies to manage the challenges they face.

43

FAMILY THRUST

“ My favourite aspect of volunteering is seeing the happiness on beneficiaries’ faces. It is our responsibility to care for our seniors and the underprivileged to the best of our abilities.

By sharing about this programme, I hope many others will be inspired to make a positive difference in the community!”

VASANTHA KUMARI d/o CHINNASAMY, 60 VOLUNTEER IN ELDERLY BEFRIENDERS PROGRAMME

60-year-old Vasantha Kumari, a retiree, is an active and passionate volunteer in SINDA’s Elderly Befrienders Programme — volunteers get to serve as companions to the elderly who are in need of assistance. Two years into the programme, Vasantha Kumari has had very meaningful experiences with two couples and three other individuals. One of them, an 84-year old lady with Parkinson’s disease, is unable to cook or perform household chores due to her trembling limbs. Each time Vasantha Kumari visits her, she cooks for a whole week and refrigerates it so that the beneficiary can have her meals without worry.

Such befriending opportunities have reaffirmed to Vasantha Kumari that every act of kindness, no matter how small, can make a real difference. She has grown close to the elderly she looks after and helps out in any way she can — buying groceries, cleaning or even giving pocket money at her own expense.

Always eager to visit her newfound friends, Vasantha Kumari continues to look forward to improving the quality of life of those in the community, especially in their time of need.

SINDA Volunteers

BY THE NUMBERS

Volunteers are a valuable and integral part of SINDA as their contributions play a key role in the success of the organisation’s programmes and services. Together with enriching their own life experiences through volunteering,these volunteers’ time, effort, expertise and resources also make a significant difference to the lives of those they serve.

658

SINDA offers its volunteers continuous training and learning opportunities so that they are empowered to organise and lead self-directed programmes. Volunteers attend a comprehensive orientation programme together with programme-specific training that equips them with specialised skills to contribute to their respective programmes efficiently.

444

volunteers contributed a total of 5,770 volunteer hours in 2019.

volunteers underwent a total of 830 training hours.

In 2019, two engagement sessions were organised to show appreciation to SINDA’s volunteers for their contribution. The sessions also provided them with the opportunity to exchange stories and strengthen bonds.

The Indian Business-leaders’ Roundtable The Indian Business-leaders’ Roundtable, or IBR, engages Indian leaders from the Singapore business community. IBR supports SINDA in its mission to uplift the Singaporean Indian community thorough its members’ rich experience, expertise and networks.

Since inception, IBR and its members have played a multi-dimensional role in assisting SINDA beneficiaries — providing funding support, career opportunities and engaging youths in the community.

Key IBR Engagements in 2019

10th IBR Dialogue Series Mentoring Programme for Republic Polytechnic students (Pilot) Post-Deepavali trip to Jewel Changi Airport for SINDA beneficiaries

EXTENDING OUR REACH, IMPACTING MORE LIVES

129

IBR members worked closely with SINDA to impact its beneficiaries.

45

Community Events At A Glance

Volunteer Appreciation

Donor Appreciation Lunch

To thank volunteers for their time and effort towards SINDA initiatives and outreach, SINDA organised a series of appreciation engagements. The Coffee Appreciation Workshop (pictured) offered volunteers some fun and an opportunity to network!

SINDA hosted an appreciation lunch in March to thank 24 significant donor organisations and individuals for their contributions to SINDA and the progress of the Indian community.

IBR Brings Families Closer The Indian Business-leaders’ Roundtable (IBR) organised a postDeepavali trip in November 2019 to Jewel Changi Airport for SINDA families, where they explored the Changi Experience Studio — a first for many families.

Project Give

Closer Collaborations

SINDA President Ms Indranee Rajah visited the Project Give (PG) booth to receive cheques on behalf of SINDA and launch the Celebrate! Festive Gift Voucher distribution. Held at The Deepavali Festival Village, PG received strong support from the community and was an opportunity for SINDA to spread greater awareness on its initiatives.

In the spirit of closer collaborations, SINDA signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with the Little India Shopkeepers & Heritage Association (LISHA) and the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI). Through the MOUs, these organisations will continue to support and leverage upon one another’s strengths and resources in serving the Indian community.

ANNUAL REPORT 2019

Corporate & Marketing Communications SINDA’s Corporate and Marketing Communications (CMC) Division functions as the communicator of the SINDA brand to stakeholders by promoting programme enrolment and engaging with audiences through key messages. In addition to marketing SINDA’s programmes, services and events, the division also undertakes corporate communications, media management, content production and publication/collateral design.

Digital Community

CORPORATE WEBSITE

SINDA’s digital and social platforms are integrated to serve as an information hub on SINDA programmes, services and events. In addition, content marketing on these platforms deliver key messages to audiences and build brand affinity.

SINDA’s website serves as a one-stop information portal for SINDA programmes and services. The website was refreshed end-2019 to include SINDA’s brand stories and video content, strengthening audience engagement.

PAGE VIEWS 10%≥

WEBSITE

111,668

(37%)

TOTAL DIGITAL REACH

TWITTER

99,058 FACEBOOK

42,463

2019

487,914

111,668

2018

442,804

101,638

FACEBOOK

301,123

(33%)

23% INCREASE FROM 2018

FOLLOWERS 4%≥

USERS ENGAGED 2%≥

2019

17,758

42,463

2018

17,025

41,686

(14%)

TOTAL REACH 97%≥

INSTAGRAM

2019

1,667,318

29,359

2018

844,643

(10%)

INSTAGRAM

ELECTRONIC DIRECT MAILER (EDM)

18,575

VISITORS 10%≥

FOLLOWERS 18%≥

(6%)

Age Group of Digital Audiences

18–34

48%

35–54

48%

≥ 55

4%

2018

1,160

IMPRESSIONS 24%≥

INSTAGRAM

WEBSITE

62%

47%

35% 3%

1,366

ENGAGEMENT 385%≥ 29,359 6,048

TWITTER

In 2019, SINDA strengthened its social media approach to connect and engage better with younger audiences through increased social and video content.

FACEBOOK

2019

POSTS1

2019

99,058

113

2018

79,840

283

YOUTUBE VIEWS 12%≥

42%

2019

20,479

11%

2018

18,300

1 With the downward trend of Twitter usage in Singapore, CMC has reduced its efforts on Twitter to focus efforts on its other social media platforms.

Video Series

SINDA in the News

SINGAARA(M) KUDUMBAM — MICRO DRAMA SERIES

207 mentions of SINDA were made in 2019, worth $727,766 in Advertising Space Rate (ASR)2, across news media platforms.

Singaara(m) Kudumbam was an eight-part micro comedy series on Vasantham to raise greater awareness on SINDA’s programmes and services.

Featuring a three-generation family in their daily routines, each episode introduced relevant programmes that a family member benefitted from or recommended to one another. The series was featured on Vasantham, meWATCH and SINDA’s social media channels.

COMMUNITY

68

(33%)

EDUCATION

51

(25%)

FAMILY & ASSISTANCE

SINDA WEB SERIES — SEASON 2

46

The 2nd season of the SINDA Web Series highlighted community themes in a light-hearted manner.

Through this digital sitcom series, SINDA discussed and invited viewers’ conversations on pertinent issues. The series was featured on SINDA’s social media channels.

YOUTH

35

MEDIA MENTIONS BY THEME

(22%)

(17%)

MISCELLANEOUS

7

(3%)

Broadcast Media

BROADCAST

98

SINDA had a presence on Vasantham, Zee TV, Zee Tamil, Sun TV, Star Vijay, Oli 96.8FM as well as meWATCH in 2019. Only high-enrolment programmes were advertised on these broadcast platforms to maximise audience reach.

MEDIA MENTIONS BY MEDIUM

ONLINE

62

(30%)

PRINT

47

In addition to programme advertising, the following content were produced for broadcast:

(47%)

(23%)

WONDERMINDS AND #BRAINBOOSTERS Education capsules on Vasantham and ZEE TV featured simple DIY Science experiments, together with Mathematics tips and tricks to pique students’ curiosity in these subjects.

meWATCH ADVERTISING To use streaming television to our advantage, SINDA programme advertisements ran on meWATCH, concurrently with broadcast, to capture a wider and evolving audience. Two campaigns were run on meWATCH and reached 235,000 viewers.

TAMIL

121

(58%)

ENGLISH

56

(27%)

MANDARIN

16

MEDIA MENTIONS BY LANGUAGE

(8%)

MALAY

14

(7%)

Cinema Advertising A total of 22,000 impressions were garnered from cinema advertisements during Indian blockbuster movies, which increased interest and registration for the STEP programme. These advertisements also complemented other STEP marketing efforts on television, radio, social media and islandwide banners.

SINDA Connections In 2019, SINDA Connections was distributed to 62,700 households and community organisations.

The newsletter was published in May, August and December.

2 The ASR value quantifies the monetary worth of the space utilised for SINDA’s news media coverage.

CODE OF GOVERNANCE DISCLOSURES 1. Board Meetings and Attendance 2019 (Executive Committee)

A total of four Executive Committee (EXCO) meetings were held in 2019.

EXCO Members’ attendances were as follows: S/NO

NAMES

DESIGNATION

NO. OF MEETINGS HELD

NO. OF MEETING ATTENDED

1

Ms Indranee Rajah

President

4

4

2

Mr Shekaran Krishnan

Vice President

4

4

3

Mr K V Rao

Vice President

4

4

4

Mr Sarjit Singh

Secretary

4

4

5

Mr R Subramaniam Iyer

Treasurer

4

4

6

Dr Joshua V M Kuma

Member

4

3

7

Mr R Chandra Mohan

Member

4

3

8

Mr K Ramamoorthy

Member

4

3

9

Mr Sarbjit Singh

Member

4

3

10

Mr Thambyrajah T

Member

4

4

11

Mr Darryl Wilson David*

Co-opted

4

0

12

Mrs Rathi Parimalan

Co-opted

4

2

13

Mr Mohamed Nasim s/o Abdul Rahim

Co-opted

4

4

14

Mr Siraj Omar **

Co-opted

3

3

15

Prof Vineeta Sinha **

Co-opted

3

2

16

Dr Rakhee Yash Pal

Co-opted

1

1

17

Mr Ramesh Narayanasamy ***

Co-opted

1

0

***

* GRANTED A LEAVE OF ABSENCE OWING TO HIS TRAVEL SCHEDULE RELATED TO WORK EXIGENCIES ** CO-OPTED IN JUNE 2019 *** STEPPED DOWN AT ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING IN MAY 2019

2. Annual Remuneration of Three Highest-Paid Staff SALARY RANGE

2019 (NO. OF PERSONS)

$200,000 to $300,000

3

$100,000 to $200,000

0

Total

3

The Trustees and Executive Committee members do not receive any remuneration from the Association.

3. Ethical Reporting (Whistle-Blowing) Policy SINDA has an Ethical Reporting policy, and a vendor-managed Ethics Hotline to provide employees and vendors with an independent external avenue to report their concerns regarding any suspected wrongdoings, misconduct and breach of policies to laws or regulations.

Scan the QR code to view the SINDA Financial Statements 2019, or visit www.sinda.org.sg/FS2019

Scan the QR code to view the Education Statistics 2019, or visit www.sinda.org.sg/ edustats2019

Singapore Indian Development Association

1 Beatty Road Singapore 209943 T: 1800 295 3333 E: queries @sinda.org.sg

MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER

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