Back in 2019, Yvonne* was only 10 years old when she first joined the MKFC programme. Over the years, she participated regularly in the events at the activity centre, such as enrichment lessons, life skills workshops, academic support, and holiday outings. She is a responsible girl who always helps to clean up after each activity, and volunteers to guide the younger children at the centre.

In 2023, Yvonne expressed her interest in having an adult mentor to provide some guidance in life. By March that same year, the MKFC team found a suitable match, mentor Louise, who was assessed to be a good fit to become a mentor for Yvonne.

Over three years of mentoring, Yvonne and her mentor met up weekly for their sessions. They enjoyed having a simple catch-up over the week’s happenings, baking cookies, discussing practical issues like finances, and even exercising together. For example, mentor Louise took the effort to prepare Yvonne for her school NAPFA 2.4km run. Through their shared quality time, their bond has strengthened gradually.

Yvonne shared that by having a mentor in her life, she has gained more confidence over time. Under the guidance of mentor Louise, Yvonne learnt to manage her emotions and is now more decisive about her path in life. She expressed appreciation towards her mentor for guiding her throughout different stages of her life. Often, Yvonne is thankful that she can share freely with her mentor on many things because she knows that she will not be judged, and her mentor will always be there for her when she needs help.

Besides spending time together, mentor Louise and Yvonne also decided to spend time giving back to the community by doing good together. Both of them volunteered as photographers at the LCSS 2023 Christmas Carnival and also helped out at the balloon sculpting booth during the LCSS 2024 Christmas Carnival. This mentor-mentee pair recently participated in the LCSS 2025 Run for Life event held at Gardens by the Bay as they wished to do their part to contribute to the fundraising goal of $125,000 to support the work carried out by LCSS.

Looking back, mentor Louise recalled how Yvonne used to be very shy at the start. However, she has gradually opened up to sharing with her mentor. As she is growing in her self-confidence, she also takes more initiative to kickstart things that she is interested in.

Indeed, Yvonne’s story is a testament to how a young person can be encouraged and supported as she strives to do more in giving back to society. Mentor Louise and Yvonne demonstrated a powerful testimony that encapsulated the power of Mentoring.

“Over the mentoring journey with Yvonne*, I have seen her grow in her ability to articulate her emotions and process what’s happening in her life more logically and thoughtfully.”  – Sharing by mentor, Louise

“With the guidance of my mentor, I’ve learned to manage my emotions better and approach challenges with increased self-assurance.”  – Sharing by mentee, Yvonne