Some of my favourite skills are (1) Orienteering and topography….I’m usually the designated navigator in any group! (2) Setting up a fire quickly and efficiently without using a fire starter but using leaves, branches and what-have-you. In fact, the SAC guides were always called upon to start fires for barbecues! (3) Using the axe and saw well. (4) First aid and managing crisis situations.
The Ten Guiding Laws were also instrumental in moulding me as an individual to face the challenges in life. Receiving the President’s Guide Award from President Nathan was definitely the “cherry on the cake” in my final year in SACSS. I was glad to do my Guide Company and school proud in achieving this highest honour.
CC: What has been your journey post SACSS?
SN: The training and experience from Guiding, in planning events and managing people were put to good use as class chairperson and coordinating the carnival in Catholic Junior College. I graduated from NUS Arts and Social Science in 2004 and have been working at the Salvation Army’s Grace Haven ever since, initially as a social worker and now as a Rehabilitation Coordinator. I handle case management, family work, group work and rehab programmes.
CC: You are also quite the mountaineer! How did you get started?
SN: I joined the NUS Outdoor Activities Club and went on treks on Malaysian mountains, progressing on to Nepal; Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit.
CC: You were the only Girl Guide (amongst 14 Scouts from various countries) to reach the summit of “Lord Baden Powell Peak” in Nepal in September this year to commemorate 100 years of Scouting. What was the significance of that occasion?
SN: Lord and Lady Baden Powell were the founders of the Scouts and Guides and we were the first expedition team up on the peak. This was also my very first peak ascent on glacier. Amidst worries of acute mountain sickness setting in, one Guide law came to mind: “A Guide has courage and is cheerful in all difficulties” and with that in mind, my fellow Singaporean climber, Kenny and I encouraged each other in the final push to the summit.
CC: SACSS is very fortunate to have you and other alumni to continue helping the present Guides.
SN: There is so much that I have gained from my years in the school. It was thus natural that after graduation, I wanted to stay connected and to dedicate my time and service to the Guides in SACSS and share all that I have learnt.
CC: How do you de-stress, maintain work-life balance, amidst so many activities and commitments?
SN: I find my quiet moments before God. He provides me the direction and answers whenever I am at a loss. Family, friends and Kenny (my Significant Other) are also a great source of support and always available for a cuppa.
CC: Do you still have your Guide uniform?
SN: Oh yes, and my SAC uniform too! It is valuable since the present students don’t wear a pinafore anymore.
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