DEVELOPING DEEPER EMPATHY
The ice cream making workshop was organised by security company Certis as what it called a “beneficiary-for-beneficiary” programme. This falls under the firm’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts to support disadvantaged children and youths as well as people with disabilities.
The workshop was the first time Certis organised an activity bringing together two long-term partners in Boys’ Town and SPD.
Certis’ senior vice president and head of group communications and marketing Robin Goh said the Boys’ Town youths displayed a “natural willingness” to support the people with disabilities throughout the workshop.
“They stepped up to help with preparation, assisted wheelchair users with manoeuvring, and ensured everyone felt included and engaged.
“Seeing the youth take initiative and create an inclusive, enjoyable environment was heartwarming,” he said, adding that Certis will continue to explore similar initiatives.
Prior to the event, Boys’ Town youths and Certis volunteers attended a learning session to better understand how to interact with people with disabilities.
During the session, the youths were genuinely curious and wanted to understand the unique challenges faced by people with disabilities and how they go about their daily life in work and social activities, said SPD’s day activity centre manager Iris Koh.
“By the end of the session, there was a noticeable shift in confidence among the Boys’ Town youth. They felt more prepared and empowered to engage with PWDs respectfully and were keen to put what they’d learned into practice.”