YMCA Vision 2030 film: Singapore Vocational and Soft Skills

Date: 04 February 2025

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Founded in 1855, the World YMCA supports every YMCA in the world, in over 100 countries. Join our global Movement.

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United by the mission and strategy of YMCA Vision 2030, YMCAs worldwide make a difference every day. From equipping young people and communities with skills for employment to supporting refugees, improving physical and mental health and developing innovative ways to protect our planet, our Movement is driving change.

We highlighted eight inspiring films showcasing this work at the YMCA Accelerator Summit in Mombasa, Kenya, held 21-25 October 2024.

We’ll share these films with you over the coming weeks. Here, we feature the Singapore Vocational and Soft Skills programme; click here to see last week’s feature, Global Pathways to Meaningful Work.

Singapore Vocational and Soft Skills

Pillars: Community Wellbeing, Just World

YMCAs: YMCA of Singapore

Project summary: Currently funded by Community Chest Singapore, since 2011 YMCA of Singapore has put nearly 900 vulnerable young people through a 6-month training programme teaching ‘soft skills’ and vocational skills in over 10 main job areas. 

Key project features:

  • Soft skills training: Four weeks of mandatory training at the YMCA of Singapore covering topics like resume writing, interview skills, strengths exploration, and mental health.
  • Vocational training: One to three months of training in one of 14 vocational tracks, providing practical skills for employment.
  • Individualised support: Each youth is supported by a dedicated caseworker with experience in social work and counselling throughout the 6-month program.
  • Financial accessibility: 94% of program costs are covered by donations, and financial assistance is available for those who cannot afford the remaining cost.
  • Partnerships: Collaboration with governing authorities, community partners, schools, and industry partners to ensure relevant training and knowledge.
  • Celebration and recognition: A year-end Graduation Ceremony celebrates the achievements of participants with their loved ones.

In their words: “I managed to learn skills that would help me in the future and also made new friends.” – programme participant.Â