Singapore, 18 November 2023 – The Singapore Red Cross (SRC) International Bazaar 2023 returned with jubilation on 18th November 2023 at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza after a six-year hiatus. With a resounding hit of the gong, the signature fundraiser was officially opened by the Guest-of-Honour, Patron of the Singapore Red Cross, President Tharman Shanmugaratnam who then visited the stalls and met with volunteers and sponsors.
Photo by James Tan, volunteer photographer
The International Bazaar presented more than 80 stalls (Annex A), set up by the diplomatic corps, local and international enterprises, civic groups and schools. Akin to a melting pot of cultures, the International Bazaar offered insights into the rich culture and heritage of 20 countries, through cuisine, souvenirs, and traditional performances.
Photo by Wong Leong Jeam, volunteer photographer
“Amid all that we are facing in the world today, the organising committee led by Mrs Genevieve Peggy Jeffs has thoughtfully themed this year’s Bazaar as 'One World United in Humanity'. The theme could not be more apt, as we mobilise the power of humanity and the spirit of solidarity to carry us through the changes and challenges ahead,” said Mr Tan Kai Hoe, Chairman of the Singapore Red Cross.
Photo by James Tan, volunteer photographer
Participants from all walks of life indulged in delicacies such as Chilean empanadas, Hungarian scones, Pakistani chicken biryani, Panamanian chicken rice, Swiss cheese raclette and Venezuelan rum; shopped Columbia coffee powder, Japanese ceramic wares, Jordanian Dead Sea products and Maldivian canned tuna; while enjoying all-day entertainment including Chinese Orchestra, Peranakan songs, K-Pop and Mexican Dance. Singapore Red Cross Ambassador, Mediacorp Radio Class 95 DJ Jean Danker made a special appearance to read song dedications and raise funds.
Photo by Stefan Wermelinger, volunteer photographer
Photo by James Tan, volunteer photographer
Photo by James Tan, volunteer photographer
The International Bazaar also featured a Charity Auction with exclusive items such as The Girl Looking Beyond quilt by Singaporean Aimee Lee of 2Quilters, a private food truck dining experience from The Good Burger which serves up plant-based burgers, and an 18k White/Rose Gold Necklace by Genark & Co, featuring Singapore's national flower, the orchid.
Photo by Wong Leong Jeam, volunteer photographer
All funds raised from the International Bazaar will go towards SRC’s local humanitarian services for vulnerable communities such as persons with disabilities; single elderly; lower-income families; children and youth; and migrant workers. SRC runs Singapore’s only residential home for severely disabled persons, and many essential programmes and services such as TransportAid & Medical Chaperones; Tuition & Mentorship for Children & Youth from disadvantaged homes; Befriending and Psychosocial Support for Seniors living on their own — all of which will benefit from the funds raised from the International Bazaar.
Photo by James Tan, volunteer photographer