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SMU Leadership Symposium 2017: Crossroads

The annual SMU Leadership Symposium is a university-wide event organised by the Office of Student Life. This year's symposium, themed Crossroads, reflects the intersection of challenges and opportunities faced by students during their journeys as leaders. Through a series of plenary sessions and interactive workshops, participants will gain insights into the multifaceted approach to leadership and be empowered with tools, knowledge and ideas to take on student leadership positions.

SMU Admin Building

SMU Excellence In Student Life President's Award (Individual)

This is the highest honour conferred by the university to an individual in recognition of his or her outstanding contributions to student life. The award winner is an all-rounder who has significantly enhanced social, recreational, educational, sporting and/or cultural life of SMU students, the University and/or Singapore.

 No Winner

SMU Excellence In Student Life Award (CCA Clubs & Individuals)

This is the highest honour conferred by the university to an individual in recognition of his or her outstanding contributions to student life. The award winner is an all-rounder who has significantly enhanced social, recreational, educational, sporting and/or cultural life of SMU students, the University and/or Singapore.

SMU Excellence in Student Life Award (Club)

TierEnsembleSmall Group
GoldSMU FUNK MOVEMENTSMU BALLARE
SilverSMU CADERAS LATINASSMU ARDIENTE
BronzeSMU EURHYTHMIXSMU LITERATI

TierEnsembleSmall Group
GoldSMU HANDBALLSMU KENDO
SilverSMU TCHOUKBALLSMU SAILING
BronzeSMU DRAGONBOATSMU AQUATHLON

TierWinners
GoldSMU INTELLECTUAL SPORTS
SilverSMU VERTS
BronzeSMU THRIVE SOCIAL CONSULTING

TierWinners
GoldSMU MUSLIM SOCIETY
SilverSMU GROWTH-X CONSULTING
BronzeSMU EYE INVESTMENT

SMU Excellence In Student Life Gold Award (Individual)

Winner

MARIA SERGEEVA 
(SOE/ YEAR 3)

Winner

TAN HONG HAN ETHAN
(LKCSB/ YEAR 2)

Winner

ELAINE KOH YULING
(LKCSB/ YEAR 4)

Winner

KELLY GOH
(LKCSB/ YEAR 3)

Winner

SEAN CHENG YISHAO
(YPHSL/ YEAR 2)

Tan Tee Chee & Tsan Kah Ngooh
Excellence In Student Life Silver Award (Individual)

Winner

CHEN WEN HAN
(SCIS/ YEAR 3)

Winner

FERNEL TAN QIAN NI
(LKCSB/ YEAR 3)

Winner

TEO CHING YEE, CLARA
(LKCSB/ YEAR 4)

SMU Excellence In Student Life Silver Award (Individual)

Winner

TRICIA TAY WEI LING
(LKCSB/ YEAR 2)

Winner

RICKY LOW JUN XIANG
(LKCSB/ YEAR 3)

SMU Excellence In Student Life Bronze Award (Individual)

(in no particular order of merit)

Winner
DENZEL LOY XIU KAI
(SCIS/YEAR 3)
JANZEN LEONG ZHAO SHEN
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
JERMAINE CHAN LE XUAN
(SCIS/YEAR 3)
JOSIAH TAN ZI YI
(SOSS/YEAR 2)
CHAN YING SHAN, JILL
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
MUHAMMAD FAEZ BIN ABDUL LATIFF
(SCIS/YEAR 4)
DARREN ANG WEI-CHENG
(YPHSL/YEAR 3)
SEAH WEI JIE, LINCOLN
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
ELLYZSE MARCEE FAMPULME MAGDADARO
(LKCSB/YEAR 2)
TAN JIAYI, CLEO
(SOSS/YEAR 3)

Winners
ALICIA ANG CHEE SUAN 
(LKCSB/YEAR 2) 
RISHEETHA SHANKAR
(SCIS/YEAR 4)
JEANETTE FRANCES KOH
(SOE/YEAR 2)
SEE CHOW YE
(LKCSB/YEAR 4)
LEE JINGYI SABRINA
(CIS/YEAR 2)
TAN KAH HONG
(SOE/YEAR 3)
MACK RACHEL REI
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
TENG, FEI
(SOSS/YEAR 2)
NATALIE KOH YUAN EN
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
ZHU, KEHENG
(LKCSB/YEAR 5)

Winners
BERNICE NG SI HUI
(YPHSL/YEAR 3)
QUEK LAY TENG
(CIS/YEAR 2)
CHUA YIN JIE
(LKCSB/YEAR 2)
STELLA BLENDA CHANDRA
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
JOLIE CHENG YU AN
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
TAN POH LING
(LKCSB/YEAR 4)
NG SONG-EN, JOSHUA
(YPHSL/YEAR 4)
TAN YONG JIA, SAMANTHA
(LKCSB/YEAR 4)
PEARLYN NEW YU EN
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
WOON SHENG KAI, NICHOLAS
(SOA/YEAR 2)

Winners
ANSEL BRYCE TAN JUN YING
(SCIS/YEAR 3)
KRISTEN LIM QINXUAN
(SOSS/YEAR 3)
CEDRICA PAN SHUH HUI
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
LIM JUN XIAN CALEB
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
CHUA KUAN QUAN
(SOE/YEAR 3)
RACHEL TAN LI QI
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
JEROME RAPHAEL TEO HSU CHEN
(YPHSL/YEAR 3)
TAY WEN XING
(LKCSB/YEAR 3
KIU YONG JEN
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
YUE DONG GOH
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)

Winners
BRANDON SIA SHAO TECK
(LKCSB/YEAR 4)
JOSHUA HO YONG JIN
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
CHAN WEI YAO
(SOSS/YEAR 4)
MUHAMMAD AZHAR BIN MOHAMED IQBAL       
(YPHSL/YEAR 3)
CHOW WEN XUAN, JOSHUA
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
MUHAMMAD SYAZAN BIN SAAD
(YPHSL/YEAR 3)
CLIVE TAN YI JUN
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
NG YEE OON, RAE
(SOA/YEAR 2
JONATHAN TEO YUE YI
(YPHSL/YEAR 3)
TAN XIAN LIN AXEL
(SCIS/YEAR 3)

SMU Special Recognition (Individual)

This category recognises individuals for their awarded-accomplishments beyond SMU in the fields of Arts, Sports, Special Interest and Adventure, Student Leadership and School/Office/Centre/Institute-based CCAs.

Winner

No winner

Winners
CHEONG WEI SOON
(SCIS/GRADUATED)
LEE ZI BIN
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)    
CHOO YI XUAN
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)
MARK MAXWELL PETER
(YPHSL/YEAR 2)
FERNEL TAN QIAN NI
(LKCSB/YEAR 3)  
POK JING YING, ALYSSA
(SOSS/YEAR 2)
GOH WEI PING
(LKSCB/YEAR 4) 
PUAY SAM YU
(SCIS/GRADUATED)
ISAAC KOH VERN
(SCIS/YEAR 3)
QUEK NING XUAN
(SCIS/GRADUATED)
JAMES ETHAN ANG
(YPHSL/YEAR 5)
RISHEETHA SHANKAR
(SCIS/YEAR 4)
JEANETTE FRANCES KOH
(SOE/YEAR 2)
RYAN ANG ZHONG JUN
(LKCSB/YEAR 1)
THEAN RAE SZE, RACHEL
(SCIS/GRADUATED)

Winner

No winner

Winner

No winner

Winner

No winner

SMU Faculty / Staff Contribution To Student Life Award (Individual)

This category recognises faculty and staff members who have significantly supported or contributed to co-curricular activities.

Winner
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR YUANTO KUSNADI 
(School of Accountancy)

Am Low Trailblazer Award (Individual)

Established in 2011 by former Dean of Students Associate Professor Low Aik Meng, this award recognises innovative students who have made significant contributions to the SMU community or society at large.

Winner
LEE YI TERNG
(SCIS / YEAR 1)

Ruth Chiang Outstanding Intern of the Year Award

This university-wide award, established by former Director of Career Services Mrs Ruth Chiang, is aimed at encouraging excellence in internship performance alongside the upholding of ethical values and best practices at the workplace.

Winner
WinnerRAYNARD ONG JUN HENG (LKCSB / YEAR 3)
First Runner-upZARA TEO XIAO XUAN (SCIS / YEAR 3)
Second Runner-upJESPER TNG ZHE LONG (LKCSB / YEAR 4)

SMU Emerging Artist Award

The SMU Emerging Artist Award recognises an artist's past work and accomplishments, and encourages the artist to continually grow in the arts.

Winner
ALWIN TUA REN JIE
(SOA/ YEAR 2)

Special Acknowledgement To Student Service Groups

Certificates of Commendation will be given to the following student services clubs who have rendered indispensable services to SMU.

  • SMU STUDENTS' ASSOCIATION
  • SMU AMBASSADORIAL CORPS
  • SMU BROADCAST & ENTERTAINMENT
  • SMU PEER HELPERS
  • SMU FINANCIAL ADVISORY AND COMPLIANCE TEAM
  • SMU LIBRARY PEER ADVISORS
  • SMU STUDENT COUNCIL OF DISCIPLINE

Organised by the Office of Student Life, the annual University Student Life Awards (USLA) recognises and honours students, as well as faculty and staff, who have contributed towards fostering an exciting and vibrant campus life in SMU through their involvement in CCAs and university events.

SMU Admin Building

Awards

Click on the award names to know more.

The SMU Excellence in Student Life President's Award is the highest honour conferred by the university to an individual in recognition of his or her outstanding contributions to student life. The award winner is an all-rounder who has significantly enhanced social, recreational, educational, sporting and/or cultural life of SMU students, the University and/or Singapore.

TypeNo. of WinnersAward Benefits
Individual1 Winner$1500 + Certificate of Excellence (Digital)

The SMU Excellence in Student Life Gold Awards (Arts) honour an individual and CCA group for their contributions to arts and culture development. The winning individual and group must have achieved artistic excellence, proficiency and contributed significantly to the arts and culture within their fraternity, and SMU.

The SMU Excellence in Student Life Gold Awards (Sports) honour an individual and CCA group for their contribution to sports. The winning individual and group must have demonstrated sporting achievements, proficiency, and promoted sports excellence within their fraternity, and SMU.

The SMU Excellence in Student Life Gold Awards (Special Interest Groups) honour an individual and CCA group for their contribution to special interest, community service and adventure. The winning individual and group must have shown proficiency and promoted excellence in special interest, community service and adventure within their fraternity, and SMU.

The SMU Excellence in Student Life Gold Awards (Student Leadership) honours an individual in the area of student leadership. The winning individual must have shown excellence and contributed significantly to student leadership standards within his/her fraternity, and SMU.

The SMU Excellence in Student Life Gold Awards (School/Office/Centre/Institute) is a new category of awards that honour clubs or individuals who have displayed excellence and /or contributed significantly to CCA clubs managed by respective SMU Schools, Offices, Centres or Institutes.

TypeNo. of WinnersAwards Benefits
Individual5 Winners (1 From each cluster)$700 + Certificate of Excellence (Digital)
Group6 winners (2 each from the Arts And Sports clusters; 1 from the Special Interest Groups and 1 from School/ Office/ Centre/ Institute cluster)$700 + Certificate of Excellence (Digital)

Tan Tee Chee & Tsan Kah Ngooh Excellence in Student Life - Silver Award

The 3 individual and group runner-ups from the Arts, Sports and Special Interest Groups will receive the Tan Tee Chee & Tsan Kah Ngooh Excellence in Student Life Silver Award. Winners must have contributed significantly to the development of their CCAs and enhanced the artistic, sporting, special interest, community service and adventure within their respective fraternities.

TypeNo. of WinnersAwards Benefits
Individual3 Winners (1 From each cluster)$500 + Certificate of Excellence (Digital)
Group5 winners (2 each from the Arts And Sports clusters; 1 from the Special Interest Groups cluster)Certificate of Excellence (Digital)

SMU Excellence in Student Life - Silver Award

The 2 individual and group runner-ups from the School/ Office/ Centre/ Institute and Student Leadership fraternities will receive the SMU Excellence in Student Life Silver Award. Winners must have contributed significantly to the development of CCA clubs managed by respective SMU Schools, Offices, Centres or Institutes.

TypeNo. of WinnersAwards Benefits
Individual2 Winners (1 From each cluster)$500 + Certificate of Excellence (Digital)
Group1 winner from the School/ Office/ Centre/ Institute clusterCertificate of Excellence (Digital)

SMU Excellence in Student Life Bronze Awards

The SMU Excellence in Student Life Bronze Awards recognise 50 individuals and 5 groups across the Arts, Sports, Special Interest Groups, Student Leadership and School/ Office/ Centre/ Institute fraternities. Winners must have contributed significantly to the development of their CCAs and enhanced the artistic, sporting, special interest, community service and adventure or student leadership standards within their respective fraternities.

TypeNo. of WinnersAwards Benefits
Individual50 Winners (10 From each cluster)$100 + Certificate of Excellence (Digital)
Group6 winners (2 each from the Arts And Sports clusters; 1 from the Special Interest Groups and 1 from School/ Office/ Centre/ Institute cluster)Certificate of Excellence (Digital)

SMU Special Recognition

The SMU Special Recognition honours individuals in recognition of their contributions and accomplishments beyond SMU in the field of:

  • Arts
  • Sports
  • Special Interest Groups
  • Student Leadership
TypeNo. of WinnersAwards Benefits
IndividualNo Cap - Award will be presented to all worthy individualsCertificate Of Recognition (Digital)

SMU Faculty/Staff Contribution to Student Life Award

The SMU Faculty/Staff Contribution to Student Life Award recognises SMU faculty and staff who have demonstrated strong support and/or made significant contributions to student life and co-curricular learning, outside of his/her official duties.

TypeNo. of WinnersAwards Benefits
IndividualNo Cap - Award will be presented to all worthy individualsCertificate Of Recognition (Digital)

Amlow Trailblazer Award (Donor Award)

Established in 2011 by former Dean of Students Associate Professor Low Aik Meng, these awards recognise innovative students who have made significant contributions to the SMU community or society at large. Recipients of the Award should have spearheaded and managed extraordinary initiatives to enhance the welfare of SMU students or the distinctiveness of SMU student life and the SMU brand, supported student integration efforts, or championed social or environmental causes locally or in overseas communities.

 

TypeNo. of WinnersAwards Benefits
IndividualUp To 2 Winners$1500 + Certificate of Distinction (Digital)

Submission

Submissions for USLA 2025 have closed.

See the 2025 Winners

As the university's official external relations representative, the SMU Ambassadorial Corps (ASMU) regularly receives and hosts external guests, including VIP delegates, foreign dignitaries and prospective students, during their visits to SMU and at important university functions. It also works closely with the university administration to organise and manage outreach projects to key stakeholders.

SMU Admin Building

ASMU offers its Ambassadors unparalleled opportunities to hone their communications and interpersonal skills.

ASMU Executive Committee (ASMU ExCo)

The members of the 21st ASMU ExCo are:

Front (left - right): 
Nicole Yeo (President), Sairam Sukesh (Vice President),

Back (left - right): 
Natalie Chan (ExCo member), Zhang Yunting (ExCo Member), Shermane Aw (ExCo member)

Student leaders are equipped with the essential leadership and team management skills to improve organisational effectiveness and co-curricular needs of their CCAs.

SMU Admin Building

Student Facilitation Training prepares student leaders with practical knowledge, skills and attitudes that enable them to facilitate discussion and build high impact teams.

Experiential Learning focuses on self-directed learning where participants will engage in fun activities, like sports and team-building exercises, before reflecting on the learning outcomes and concepts in their roles as students and leaders.

Games Leadership Workshop equips student leaders with the skills to design and deliver safe, high-quality and educational team development activities for the CCAs.

Psychometric Profiling Workshop provides participants with different personality profiling tools, such as the Myer Briggs Type Indicator and Dimensions of Leadership Profiles, to learn more about themselves and how they process information based on their personality types and communication preferences. The insights can help the participants become more effective communicators and leaders.

 

SMU develops active and socially responsible student leaders through leadership training and development programmes organised by Students' Association (SMUSA) and the Student Constituent Bodies.

SMU Admin Building

A comprehensive leadership training roadmap comprising of a variety of training programmes and opportunities for leadership exposure, is provided to support leadership development.

Student leaders are offered ample opportunities to serve and lead the student community in leadership positions in the CCAs, and to organise university-wide events like the Freshmen Orientation Camp, Vivace CCA Day and SMOO Challenge. They work with the Office of Student Life to improve student welfare and co-curriculum learning.

Student leaders are regularly invited to participate in international programmes at reputable institutions overseas. These exchange-cum-study trips provide valuable insights on good practices in student governance and leadership and offer networking opportunities with peers internationally.

Outstanding student leaders are recognised and presented with the annual University Student Life Award (USLA).

The SMU Pathfinders Programme seeks to develop values-driven learners, authentic collaborators and responsible global citizens.

Values-Driven Learner

We live in an increasingly Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous (V.U.C.A) world and thus, it is now more important than ever that we identify, clarify and establish our personal core values to take rational action. Our values will define our decisions, priorities and perspectives of others, and the world. Unless we can be aware of ourselves, our values, our way of thinking and doing, we will lack the ability to collaborate effectively. Therefore, the Pathfinders Programme aims to provide opportunities such as Values-Conversations and Community Trails for students. During such workshops, students are given the opportunity to interrogate and define their internal compass. In doing so they will be able to develop consciousness of themselves and others, and challenged to act with congruence.

Authentic Collaborator

Collaboration mobilizes and enhances the power of the group to build trust, respect others and capitalize on the multiple perspectives of the group and the power of diversity. We should be able to see issues from multiple perspectives, be willing to hear each other’s’ views and exercise restraint in criticizing the views and actions of others. Through programmes such as Establishing and Maintaining Authentic Relationships and The Power of Listening workshops, the Pathfinders Programme aims to equip SMU students with the skills to collaborate effectively with others, build consensus around a common set of values when working in teams and communicate effectively.

Responsible Global Citizen

The world is becoming increasingly globalized and interconnected. Therefore, it is vital that we understand our place within the larger, global community and look beyond their self-interest(s) to take up roles and responsibilities. Students will need to recognize that to effect meaningful and positive change, they would need to engage with and learn from individuals whose identities, values and experiences are different from theirs. The Pathfinders Programme aims to expose SMU students to real-world challenges and global perspectives through overseas experiential workshops. This will allow students to learn how to inspire, plan and effect positive change on behalf of the community.

Sustainability Changemakers Overseas Programme

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is a shared blueprint adopted by all United Nations member states for the advancement of global peace and prosperity. It comprises 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which acts as an urgent call for action.

The first ever SMU Sustainability Changemakers Overseas Programme took place in 2022 to Bali, Indonesia. We are proud to say that this Overseas Changemakers Programme will be an annual event from now on!

In line with SMU Pathfinders Programme’s desired outcomes, the learning objectives for the Sustainability Changemakers Overseas Programme would be for participants to:

  1. Critically examine the causes of environmental and other sustainability issues in Bali, and compare and contrast these with current sustainability issues in Singapore/home communities.
  2. Build a meaningful and lasting understanding of Balinese culture and traditions through interactions with local communities.
  3. Better understand their own ecological footprint and uncover socially responsible actions they can undertake based on a deeper understanding of sustainability-related challenges.
  4. Brainstorm potential solutions for some of the most critical challenges on sustainability faced today – participants can then use the tools and knowledge they have learnt to implement sustainability-related stewardship projects that will make a difference in their local communities back home.

Past & Upcoming Programmes

What did past participants have to say about their experience?

“Thought-provoking! This programme was useful to understand the concept of Ridge to Reef and how the earth’s systems are interconnected. And disruptions through humans can result in harming our biosphere.” 

– Tang Wen Chung Nicolas, Year 1 Student from School of Computing and Information Systems

“It was eye-opening to meet many passionate community partners in Bali, Indonesia and they have inspired me to kick-start my own sustainability journey in Singapore.” 

– Kango Lee Zhen Xiong, Year 2 Student from School of Computing and Information Systems

"Through different guided walks, I learned more about the challenges of Bali and what they are implementing to solve these challenges. One of the very memorable and eye-opening issue that I learnt about is regarding waste disposal and waste management in Bali. Meeting locals and seeing how they live really intrigued me to know and understand more about the social issues in the region." 

– Isabelle Hong, Year 3 Students from Lee Kong Chian School of Business

Video showing snippets of Changemaker Programme 2023

Video showing snippets of Changemaker Programme 2023

Video showing snippets of Changemaker Programme 2022

University Scholars Leadership Symposium (USLS)

The annual University Scholars Leadership Symposium (USLS) brings hundreds of youth delegates together, where ideas grow, collaborations take place and diverse voices unite for a better world. At USLS, delegates get the opportunity to network with like-minded peers from around the world who are passionate and committed to positive social change. USLS nurtures emerging world leaders by giving them the confidence to lead sustainable development projects to address issues such as poverty, climate change and inequality.

Since 2023, SMU Pathfinders Programme has brought a group of SMU undergraduate students to be part of USLS every year. Apart from attending the USLS, this trip also includes curated visits to social enterprises and non-profit organisations. These visits give participants an opportunity to learn more about how these organisations strive for and create positive change in their communities.

The learning objectives for the USLS would be for participants to:

  1. Embark on a transformative journey on leadership in social change
  2. Apply transferable skills, such as critical thinking, leadership, and collaboration
  3. Network with like-minded peers from around the world committed to positive social change
  4. Reflect on your purpose in creating a better world
  5. Initiate socially meaningful projects to address issues such as climate change, poverty and inequality

For more information on USLS, you may refer to Humanitarian Affairs Asia's website.

What did past participants have to say about their experience?

"I now realize that all it takes to start a change is by doing something small. Oftentimes, we have our own self doubts regarding our abilities and skills when facing difficult challenges. These fears prevent us from actually contributing. All it takes is just a simple idea/action, as long as we know what our intentions are. There's no use to delaying, because by then, we'll be spending too much time delaying instead of doing something real. I have learned to take the leap of faith and committ to a cause larger than me."

– Bernardinus Matteo Woenardi, Year 1 Student from School of Computing and Information Systems

“I learnt from inspiring humanitarian speakers. What stood out as a common thread among them was their powerful stories, each showcasing their resilience and optimism when faced with challenges. Seeing their ability to transform challenges into stepping stones became a motivation for me to emulate a similar mindset in every stage of my life. From these captivating speakers, I not only cultivated a deeper sense of empathy, but also an appreciation for the privileges I have been fortunate to enjoy. My participation in Service Day further amplified my gratitude and instilled a greater sense of empathy. Furthermore, my engagement with the two NGOs enriched my understanding of Bangkok's marginalized communities. The encounters with individuals from slum areas and highly vulnerable children were eye-opening, serving as harsh reminders of the extensive work that remains crucial to uplift these communities. This journey revealed to me that there is an ample amount we can contribute to enhance the conditions of these less fortunate areas. Ultimately, it is imperative to leverage our resources and privileges to aid those who are less advantaged. This realization underscores the responsibility we have to create a more equitable world by extending a helping hand wherever possible."

– Faith Lam, Year 2 Student from Lee Kong Chian School of Business

Immersion Programmes

The SMU Pathfinders Change Agents Immersion Programme is meant for students who are passionate and committed to effecting positive change in society. In this programme, participants will engage with local communities and changemakers to exchange cultural insights and learn how they are agents of change to address poverty, inequality and sustainability. Through discussions with local communities and within the student team, there are opportunities to collaboratively ideate solutions for societal changes.

The first SMU Pathfinders Change Agents Immersion Programme takes place in July 2025.

The learning objectives for the SMU Pathfinders Change Agents Immersion Programme would be for participants to:

  1. Develop self-awareness through cultural immersion and engagement with social issues
  2. Apply principles to understand real-world challenges and global perspectives
  3. Develop skills needed to effect positive and meaningful change
  4. Reflect on your role as a global citizen

For more trip information in SMU Pathfinders Change Agents Immersion Programme 2025, click here.

What did past participants have to say about their experience?

"This programme really showed me how change can be made by simple acts of social innovation and to never give up no matter what the dream or vision is. Something that I found beneficial was the learning and stories from various key people from the different social enterprises. I think it's really inspiring but also keeps me humbled enough to know that really anything is possible if you set your mind to it."

– Tay Desousa Michael Orlando, Year 2 Student from Lee Kong Chian School of Business

"I learnt that there are many aspects in which people can differ (disability, poverty, or backgrounds). Despite circumstantial differences, what these people have in common is that they go through personal growth, hardship, and inculcate a form of resilience at the very least. For some, this difficulty also creates a desire to make change for future generations and improve conditions. I will learn to apply the mindset of being fearless in pursuing passion to make a change in society, even if the change is small."

– Anh Nhi Vu, Year 3 student from Lee Kong Chian School of Business

"I enjoyed the networking sessions at the different social enterprises, and I now believe more strongly that because of our privilege, we have more responsibility to envision and active work towards creating a future that we and future generations thrive in. I would like to be more active in my efforts towards social causes that target food insecurity and education for underprivileged children in our society. I am more encouraged to believe and start taking action about the issues I am concerned about."

– Isabelle Goh, Year 2 student from School of Computing and Information Systems

Jump to: 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019

Programmes for 2025

"Self"

23 October 2025Crafting Lasting Impressions: Mastering Executive Presence by IntelliCoach (Open Call)
17 September 2025Values Conversation by SUTW Impact Consulting (Open Call)
5 and 26 September 2025Build Emotional Resilience with Strengths for Peer Helpers by IntelliCoach
5 February 2025Executive Presence & Gravitas: How to Speak So People Will Listen to You by SUTW Impact Consulting (Open Call)

“Self and Others”

17 October 2025Amplify Your Unique Strengths for a Stronger Odyssey by IntelliCoach for Odyssey
17 October 2025Crafting Connections: Mastering Networking & Branding for Success for SMU-SMC by SUTW Impact Consulting
8 October 2025Release Your Unique Strengths for SACLIP by IntelliCoach
5 and 26 September 2025Conflict Resolution for Peer Helpers by SUTW Impact Consulting
29 August 2025Enhancing Individual & Team Effectiveness for Peer Helpers by SUTW Impact Consulting
23 August 20255 Practices of Exemplary Leadership: Understanding Self and Others for Peer Helpers Committee by SUTW Impact Consulting
5 and 6 May 2025BONDUE Leadership Training Programme by IntelliCoach
11 March 2025Crafting Connections: Mastering Networking and Branding for Success by SUTW Impact Consulting for SMU-SMC
21 and 28 February 2025Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) Training by Ser Mu Ying for Peer Helpers 
19 Feb 2025Influence Without Authority (Open Call) by IntelliCoach
24 January 2025Amplify Your Unique Strengths for a Stronger Odyssey by IntelliCoach for Odyssey

“Self and Community”

6 to 13 December 2025SMU Sustainability Changemakers Overseas Programme 2025
4 to 10 August 202513th University Scholars Leadership Symposium 2025
24 to 28 July 2025SMU Pathfinders Change Agents Immersion Programme 2025

Programmes for 2024

"Self"

8 November 2024Crafting Your Story: Strategies for Creating a Personal Brand That Stands Out by SUTW Impact Consulting (Open Call)
20 March 2024Nurturing Self-Esteem: Embrace Yourself! by SUTW Impact Consulting (Open Call)
8 February 2024    Values Conversation by SUTW Impact Consulting (Open Call)

“Self and Others”

12 December 2024Crafting Connections: Mastering Networking & Branding for Success by SUTW Impact Consulting for LKYGBPC Student Leaders
9 December 2024Release Your Unique Strengths by IntelliCoach for LKYGBPC Student Leaders
25 October 2024Amplify Your Unique Strengths for a Stronger Odyssey by IntelliCoach for The Mentoring Circle
9 October 2024Release Your Unique Strengths by IntelliCoach for Student Association Council
20 September and 4 October 2024Build Emotional Resilience with Strengths (Intermediate) by IntelliCoach for Peer Helpers
20 September 2024Conflict Resolution (Beginner) by SUTW Impact Consulting for Peer Helpers
4 September 2024How to Communicate Assertively with Others by SUTW Impact Consulting (Open Call)
30 August and 6 September 2024Conflict Resolution (Intermediate) by SUTW Impact Consulting for Peer Helpers
30 August and 6 September 2024Build Emotional Resilience with Strengths (Beginner) by IntelliCoach for Peer Helpers
29 August 2024Release Your Unique Strengths by IntelliCoach for SMU Sustainable Investments Club
20 July 2024Effective Communication for Team Cohesiveness by SUTW Impact Consulting for EYE Investment Club
14 June 2024Crafting Connections: Mastering Networking & Branding for Success by SUTW Impact Consulting for Bondue
10 May 2024Self-Leadership: Mindset and Skillset by IntelliCoach for Bondue
4 May 2024Release Your Unique Strengths by IntelliCoach for ASMU
2 and 3 May 2024LKCSB Leadership Training Programme by IntelliCoach for LKCSB Student Clubs
16 and 23 February 2024Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) Training by Ser Mu Ying for Peer Helpers 
12 January 2024Amplify Your Unique Strengths for a Stronger Odyssey by IntelliCoach for Odyssey

“Self and Community”

10 to 17 December 2024SMU Pathfinders Sustainability Changemakers Overseas Programme
9 October 2024Why Shop When You Can Swap? by Swapaholic (Open Call)
4 to 11 August 202412th University Scholars Leadership Symposium 2024

Programmes for 2023

"Self"

18 October 2023Stop Hindering your Personal Success by SUTW Impact Consulting (Open Call)
21 August 2023Developing Habits that Stick by SUTW Impact Consulting (Open Call)
3 February 2023Values Conversation by SUTW Impact Consulting for Peer Helpers
17 January 2023Unstuck Yourself - Moving Ahead with your Aspiration by Bold At Work (Open Call)

“Self and Others”

27 October 2023Succeed with your Strengths by IntelliCoach for The Mentoring Circle (TMC)
5 October 2023Release your Unique Strengths by IntelliCoach for Student Association Council (SAC)
9 September 2023Project Management Workshop by IntelliCoach for Peer Helpers
8 and 15 September 2023Build Emotional Resilience with Strengths (Beginner) by IntelliCoach for Peer Helpers
8 September 2023Values Conversation by SUTW Impact Consulting for Peer Helpers
25 August and 1 September 2023Build Emotional Resilience with Strengths (Intermediate) by IntelliCoach for Peer Helpers
15 July 2023Effective Communication for Team Cohesiveness by SUTW Impact Consulting (EYE Investment Club)
18 May 2023Release your Unique Career Strengths (Open Call)
9 May 2023Release your Unique Strengths by IntelliCoach for SMU Broadcast & Entertainment (SMUBE)
6 May 2023Release your Unique Strengths by IntelliCoach for SMU Ambassadorial Corps (ASMU)
2 and 3 May 2023LKCSB Leadership Training Programme by IntelliCoach for LKCSB Student Clubs
16 March 2023Managing Difficult People (and Yourself) by SUTW Impact Consulting (Open Call)
10 and 17 February 2023Build Emotional Resilience with Strengths (Beginner) by IntelliCoach for Peer Helpers

“Self and Community”

6 to 13 December 2023SMU Pathfinders Sustainability Changemakers Overseas Programme 2023
31 July to 6 August 202311th University Scholars Leadership Symposium 2023

Programmes for 2022

"Self"

3 November 2022Turning Imposter Syndrome into Self-Confidence by SUTW Impact Consulting (Open Call)
3 October 2022Release your Unique Career Strengths by IntelliCoach (Collaboration with Student Success Centre x Open Call)
26 August 2022Values Conversation by SUTW Impact Consulting for Peer Helpers
24 August 2022Enhance your Emotional Armour with Resilience by IntelliCoach (Open Call)
5 August 2022Values Conversation by IntelliCoach for Global Impact Scholars (GISA)
17 July 2022Values Conversation by SUTW Impact Consulting for SMU Merit Scholars
16 July 2022Values Conversation by SUTW Impact Consulting for Lee Kong Chian Scholars Programme (LKCSP)
18 March 2022Values Conversation by SUTW Impact Consulting for Peer Helpers
25 January 2022Developing Habits that Stick by SUTW Impact Consulting (Open Call)

“Self and Others”

21 October 2022Build Emotional Resilience with Strengths (Beginner) by IntelliCoach for Peer Helpers
9 September & 16 September 2022Build Emotional Resilience with Strengths (Intermediate) by IntelliCoach for Peer Helpers
8 & 10 August 2022LKCSB Student Clubs Leadership Training Programme by IntelliCoach
23 July 20225 Practices of Exemplary Leadership: Understanding Self and Others workshop by SUTW Impact Consulting for Peer Helpers EXCO Committee
7 May 2022Release your Unique Strengths by IntelliCoach for SMU Ambassadorial Corps
4 May 2022Release your Unique Strengths by IntelliCoach for SMU Broadcast & Entertainment (SMUBE)
18 & 25 February 2022Build Emotional Resilience with Strengths by IntelliCoach for Peer Helpers
28 January & 4 February 2022Build Emotional Resilience with Strengths by IntelliCoach for Peer Helpers

“Self and Community”

7 - 14 December 2022SMU Sustainability Changemakers Programme

Programmes for 2021

"Self"

15, 16 December 2021Find your Ikigai by Growthbeans
11 August 2021Values Conversation by SUTW for Lee Kong Chian Scholars Programme (LKCSP) Scholars
26 July 2021Values Conversation by SUTW for Global Impact Scholars (GISA)
19 July 2021Values Conversation by SUTW for SMU Merit Scholars
17 July 2021Values Conversation by SUTW for SMU Ambassadorial Corps
15 June 2021The Power of Emotional Intelligence by Growthbeans (Open Call)
1 April 2021The Bedrock of a Purposeful Life by SUTW (Open Call)
3 March 2021Self-Leadership: Mindset and Skillset by IntelliCoach (Open Call) 
15 January 2021HABIT SYSTEMS: Goal-Setting That Actually Works…for YOU! workshop by SUTW (Open Call)

“Self and Others”

5 October 20215 Practices of Exemplary Leadership by SUTW for Prinsep Street Residences (PSR)
3 October 2021Release your Unique Strengths by IntelliCoach for International Connection (ICON)
29 September 2021Negotiate with Influence by HHHolistic (Open Call)
3 August 20215 Practices of Exemplary Leadership: Understanding Self and Others workshop by SUTW for Peer Helpers EXCO Committee
29 May 2021Release your Unique Career Strengths by IntelliCoach (Collaboration with Centre for Scholars Development)
22 May 2021Release your Unique Strengths by IntelliCoach for SMU Ambassadorial Corps
12 March 2021Conflict Resolution by SUTW for SMU Peer Helpers in 2021
30 January 20215 Practices of Exemplary Leadership: Understanding Self and Others workshop by SUTW for SMU Ambassadors
23 January 2021The Art & Skill of Leadership by intelliCoach for Prinsep Street Residents (Open Call)
8 January 2021The Art & Skill of Leadership by IntelliCoach for Prinsep Street Residential Seniors

“Self and Community”

31 May - 4 June, 
7 June - 11 June 2021
Virtual Cross-cultural Immersion Programme (SMU x CCC) by HHHolistic 

Programmes for 2020

“Self and Team”

26 December 2020Managing "Difficult" People & Situations for SMU Peer Helpers
6 October 2020Managing Difficult People (and yourself) workshop by SUTW (Open Call)
22 August 2020Saying what I mean without hurting others: Assertive communication and feedback strategies by SUTW for SMU Peer Helpers
7 February 2020Building a Culture of Dignity Workshop by SUTW (Open Call)
11 January 2020SMU C4SR Values Bedrock Challenge by SUTW for SMU CSP Leaders

Programmes for 2019

"Self"

20 September 2019Values Conversation by SUTW for SMU Peer Helpers
15 August 2019Values Conversation by SUTW for LKCSP Scholars
2 August 2019Values Conversation by SUTW for PSR Seniors (Train the trainer session)
15 August 2019Values Conversation by SUTW for GIS Scholars
17 July 2019Values Conversation by SUTW for SMU Merit Scholars
30 April 2019Visioning & Goal- Setting Session, with Design Thinking workshop by SUTW for ASMU Parents Day Kick-off
1 March 2019Values Conversation by SUTW for SMU Ambassadorial Corps

“Self and Team”

9 December 2019Enhancing Individual and Team Effectiveness Workshop by Growthbeans for the executive committees of SMUXtremists, SMU Sailing Club, SMU Sports Union, SMU Climb Team, SMU Rugby Team and Peer Helpers Coordinators
26 October 2019Enhancing Individual and Team Effectiveness Workshop by Growthbeans for the executive committees of Arts & Cultural Fraternity, Special Interest & Community Services, Peer Helpers Coordinators and SMU student ambassadors
25 October 2019Managing Difficult People (and yourself) workshop by SUTW (Open Call)
13 September 2019Perspective taking and negotiation workshop by SUTW for SMU Peer Helpers
6 September 2019The Power of Listening Workshop by Growthbeans (Open Call)
3 August – 7 September 2019Establishing and maintaining authentic relationships workshops by Dale Carnegie Singapore for GIS Scholars and Prinsep Street Residents
6 May 2019Empathy Training & Values-in-Action Field Exercise by SUTW for SMU CSP Leaders

Aligned to the SCM, the SMU Pathfinders Programme is designed with three key levels of leadership development in mind: the individual (“Self”), the group (“Self and Team”), and the community(“Self and Community”). The individual component of the model is primarily focused on the personal qualities that are being fostered in each student, the group component focuses on collaboration between the individual and the group, and the community component focuses on bringing about positive social change for the common good. Within the three levels of the leadership development, there are 7 values (also known as the 7C’s of leadership) that are necessary to create positive social change. They are: consciousness of self, congruence, commitment, collaboration, common purpose, controversy with civility and citizenship.

Reference

Higher Education Research Institute, UCLA. (1996). A Social Change Model of Leadership Guidebook (3rd ed.). Los Angeles.

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