During the summer break, our team of 19 members and 2 leaders from NTU Hall 5 embarked on an impactful journey to a small village in Vientiane, Laos. This trip marked a significant milestone as it was Hall 5’s first overseas volunteering trip in many years. The anticipation and excitement among us were palpable as we prepared to make a difference in a community far from home.
Over the course of 13 days, we stepped out of our comfort zones living in the school and undertook the challenging task of refurbishing a local school. We repainted the school’s walls with a fresh coat of white paint and added a mural, transforming the space into a more welcoming environment for the students. Additionally, we distributed water filtration systems to the villagers, providing them with access to clean drinking water, a basic necessity that many of us take for granted. This hands-on work not only tested our physical limits but also deepened our understanding of the struggles faced by the local community.
Beyond the hard work, the trip was also a cultural exchange. We immersed ourselves in the rich and beautiful culture of Laos, learning about local customs and traditions while sharing insights about Singapore culture. Friendships were formed, especially with the local students, through heartfelt interactions and shared experiences. Whether it was congregating over social activities in a single classroom or participating in cultural exchanges, the bonds created during this trip were genuine and lasting. This experience was more than just a summer trip; it was a journey of personal growth, cultural understanding, and meaningful connections that will remain cherished memories for years to come.
OCEP was a very refreshing trip that opened my eyes to untouched areas of the world. It was so heartening to see the people being content with their living conditions and making the most out of their resources and time especially in the villages, which made them a more united and tightly-knitted community. Leong Rui Ying Clarisse, Member
About Project eVolve: 5ppiness
Project eVolve: 5ppiness is organised by Twenty-One Young Hearts (TYH), a student-led local/overseas engagement project (L/OCEP) club in Hall of Residence 5. Founded in 2010, the club aims to promote and facilitate social outreach for Hall 5 residents through diverse Community Involvement Programmes and activities. These initiatives, both local and international, are organised and implemented by Hall 5 TYH members in partnership with external organisations.
