Leaders don’t always have to have the loudest voice in the room. 10-year-old Young Hearts beneficiary Mindy* is proof that, despite a soft-spoken nature, a listening ear and perceptive counsel is more than enough to win friends and influence people.

Everyday it’s bustlin’

For a quiet introvert, 10-year-old Mindy’s environment was far from ideal. Her mother, a single parent and the family's sole breadwinner, juggled work demands while raising multiple daughters. The household — shared with Mindy's older sister and frequently visited by another sister with a newborn — rarely offered the quiet space Mindy needed for schoolwork or personal reflection. She often left her feeling overwhelmed and unable to concentrate amid the family's hectic rhythm.

A Lifeline

During the June holidays, Mindy's friend invited her to a Young Hearts' Lepak Session. After speaking with a programmes coordinator, she became interested in the programme, which eventually became her sanctuary. Young Hearts offered what her busy home couldn't: consistency, attention, and a safe space to develop at her own pace. And with time, within the structured, supportive environment of Young Hearts, Mindy gradually emerged from her shell. It has also helped Mindy develop the confidence to navigate both her personal and academic life, despite the challenges in her environment.

Like a Butterfly

The distant shell that once served as protection from the chaos surrounding her gave way and her natural gifts found expression, particularly her ability to listen attentively and offer thoughtful guidance. 

While it was once difficult for her peers to know her, Mindy now is able to build trust and comfortably share stories about her school day with classmates and staff. When fellow students struggle with assignments, it's often the gentle-natured Mindy who quietly moves to their side to help.

A Natural Leader

Despite her still-quiet nature, Mindy has developed into a gentle leader, demonstrating how patience and nurturing can help children discover strengths they never knew they possessed. It is heartwarming that Mindy has become a mentor in the classroom and is someone her peers look up to. Mindy's quiet confidence has grown, and she is learning the value of connection and support.

Strength in Connection

For Mindy, Young Hearts isn't just an after-school programme — it's where she found her voice, her confidence, and her place in a community that values her exactly as she is. Her journey reflects how a safe, supportive space like Young Hearts can empower children to discover their voice, step into leadership roles, and find strength in connection.

Written by Eunice Sng, Marketing & Communications
*Names have been changed to protect the child’s identity.