The Singapore Prize seeks to foster innovation and unconventional thinking. We recognize individuals and organisations that have contributed towards creating a better society through cross-sector partnerships, while at the same time emphasizing its positive effects through prize challenges – short-term projects and competitions designed to bring about positive changes around us.
This year, an unprecedented 26 submissions from across the globe were submitted as entries in this year’s competition. Not all were shortlisted but, due to the high quality of entries received, two special commendations without cash awards were presented; these are Reviving Qixi: Singapore’s Forgotten Seven Sisters Festival by Lynn Wong and Lee Kok Leong as well as Theatres of Memory: Industrial Heritage Of 20th Century Singapore by Loh Kah Seng, Alex Tan, Koh Keng We, Tan Teng Phee and Juria Toramae respectively.
As part of our Singapore Prize competition, we have introduced an arts and multimedia category to expand its appeal beyond books; plays, films etc. will now also be eligible. Winners in this category will be selected through a similar process as book competition winners; each edition of competition will alternate between books and arts & multimedia categories.
On April 1st, the inaugural Singapore Prize ceremony took place at Mediacorp Theatre and was hosted by Emmy Award winner Hannah Waddingham and three-time Emmy award winning actor Sterling K. Brown. It included performances by some of the world’s leading musicians and artists such as Bastille, OneRepublic and Bebe Rexha and was attended by over 600 guests including leading philanthropists and social impact leaders from the community.
Mr Koh Juay Meng was recognized in the Leaders of Good (Adult) category for his tireless efforts in mobilizing senior citizens through volunteerism. As chairman of RSVP Singapore (The Organisation of Senior Volunteers), his actions set an excellent example in inspiring other seniors to give back to their communities through volunteering. Furthermore, Mr. Meng made significant contributions to public service via various roles within charities and the community and by serving on numerous advisory committees within government.
Mr. Clarence Ching received the People of Good (Youth) award for his efforts in empowering youths through access to education. As the founder of Access Singapore, he has created pathways for social mobility for underprivileged students through English lessons and personal development programs; additionally, he has spearheaded community-based learning in schools such as Nanyang Girls’ High School and Hwa Chong College.
Foreword Coffee stands out in the Organizations of Good (Small & Medium Enterprise) category as an outstanding example of inclusivity. As a social enterprise, they prioritize inclusive hiring by offering training and employment opportunities to people living with disabilities or mental health conditions; creating more supportive workplace culture; conducting community engagement events to reduce stigma surrounding mental illness at work; as well as hosting community engagement events to reduce stigma surrounding mental illness in the workplace.