ChildAid 2022
President Halima addressing us after the performance
When I was 9, I had the most amazing experience performing at ChildAid 2022, a charity concert organised by The Straits Times and The Business Times. It was held at the University Cultural Centre (UCC), and the event raised over $2.16 million to support children and youth from low-income families through The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund and The Business Times Budding Artists Fund. I felt extremely proud to be part of such a big event that could help others through doing what I loved - singing!
I got to perform Dynamite by BTS with Aika and Aili Addicks and Emma Koh. We wore fun, colourful outfits and danced and sang our hearts out. I also performed a split live during the show. It was nervewrecking but I'm glad I pulled it off! Later, I was part of a group that sang an ABBA medley, with songs like Take a Chance on Me and Mamma Mia. I loved the glittery costumes we donned for this. Amazingly, the music was arranged by a super talented 16-year-old named Sathya Nayar from SOTA!
One of the coolest parts was getting to perform with a live band. I learned a lot about working with musicians, listening closely, and staying on beat. We also had amazing coaches and mentors who taught us how to use the mic properly, how to show emotion on stage, and how to stay confident even if we were nervous.
And guess what? We even got to meet President Halimah Yacob on stage during the finale! I still remember how excited and honoured I felt standing there in front of the whole audience with her.
I also made a bunch of new friends who love music just like I do. We spent hours rehearsing, cheering each other on, and having so much fun backstage.
A big thank you to Mr Jeremiah Choy for directing the entire production, our super fun dance instructor Mr Kamil, and Mr Leslie from The Voice Company for helping us with our vocals. I learned so much from all of them!
ChildAid 2022 was one of the best things I’ve ever done. It made me realise how music can bring people together and make a real difference. I’ll never forget it!
