Singapore Olympics Weightlifter as a Mentor
“After I turned 29, I started to have a desire to do meaningful things, and found EduGrow on giving.sg. I have always enjoyed interacting with children and with EduGrow, I hope to encourage this group of children to excel in life. Once a week, I will spend 2-3 hours with my mentees. Being a mentor does not take up a lot of time, but it has a huge potential to be impactful and meaningful.”
After work, she would head to a flat in marine parade to mentor Farah*, who is 11 years old, and her sister, Hana*, 10 years old. She would bring them to the nearby library to borrow books to read, or to walk at east coast park.
“I will listen to whatever they want to talk about. I am not there to lecture or play a teacher’s role. What they need is someone that can be there for them, and to care for them. Should the opportunity arise, I will teach them using my life experiences.”
Helena recalled an experience where she knew she had made some positive impact as a role model in her mentees – Farah had picked up litter that her neighbour threw on the ground, saying she knows Helena does not like the act of littering.
She felt even more touched when the children’s parents invited her over for a meal during Hari Raya. She believes that parents do love their children but due to some complications and challenges, they are unable to spend much time with their children.
To be able to help the family, be someone that the children can talk to and seek guidance/support from, she feels that her time spent has been very meaningful.