SINGAPORE – When she was just three years old, Chia Sze En was already accompanying her parents to visit seniors living in rental flats in MacPherson to check in on their well-being as part of volunteer work for Lions Befrienders. 

At seven, inspired by her mother who works in the social service sector, she began her formal volunteering journey with the Singapore Cancer Society.

There, at the society’s yearly fundraising runs, Relay for Life and Race Against Cancer, and other events like Cancer Survivors Day, she helped out in the setup, packing, and registration.

One of the fundraising runs helped raised over $8,000 for cancer patients.

On July 5, Sze En, a pupil of Tao Nan School, was one of the 84 young individuals across 37 schools who received the Singapore Silent Heroes (SSH) Student Awards on July 5. 

Launched in 2023 by the Civilians Association Singapore, the SSH Student Award recognises students who led with empathy, selflessness, and resilience.

These unsung heroes went above and beyond in service to their communities, from organising donation drives and supporting seniors to championing mental health awareness and advocating for inclusive education.

Sze En’s spirit of care goes beyond volunteering for cancer-related causes.

In 2023, the primary school pupil helped console and comfort a neighbour whose husband had a heart attack and had to be rushed to the hospital. The man’s wife, who was left alone at home, was distraught and crying.

Reflecting on her time volunteering, Sze En, who is now 10, said: “I am a very shy and quiet person, but when I volunteer, I need to be brave and confident... Everyone is different, but we can make a difference to help others.” 

Speaking at the event, which was held at the Spring Singapore Auditorium, Minister of State for Education and Digital Development and Information Jasmin Lau, said: “Good is not only done in grand gestures, but a...