31.5 C
Singapore
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
Home Blog Page 2

What’s on in Singapore in March + April 2025

Get ready for major fun ahead! From the stunning Sakura Season to international musicals and orchestral extravaganzas, there’s a whole lot happening on the red dot throughout March and April. Whatever your vibe, there’s something exciting for everyone – don’t miss out! Check out the below.

500 Voices in Celebration

This April, don’t miss the extraordinary world premiere of A Bridge Across the Sea, a brand-new choral and orchestral piece by renowned British composer Jonathan Dove CBE. As a flagship event in Tanglin Trust School’s Centenary celebrations, this spectacular concert will bring together over 500 musicians at The Esplanade.

Featuring the Tanglin music community alongside Resound Collective, Raffles Singers, and esteemed Singaporean and international soloists, this powerful performance will be conducted by the acclaimed musical director, Lien Boon Hua.

Inspired by The Ramayana – a timeless Hindu epic of good triumphing over evil – A Bridge Across the Sea promises to be an unforgettable musical experience.
Book your tickets now at esplanade.com

Blossoming Nicely

Spring is around the corner and that means Sakura Season at Gardens by the Bay! Immerse yourself in all things cherry blossom as the famous Flower Dome presents its yearly scenic landscape from
8 March – 6 April.
Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay,
 18 Marina Gardens Drive, 018953
 gardensbythebay.com.sg

Here comes Hari Raya Puasa


Celebrate the spirit of Hari Raya Puasa, which falls on Monday, 31 March. The festivities kick off a month earlier, with vibrant Ramadan Bazaars happening across the island. The largest of them all, the Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar, will feature over 500 stalls offering everything from food and clothing to traditional Hari Raya goodies. Don’t miss the Hari Raya Street Light Up that adds a kaleidoscopic glow to the party.
26 February – 31 March
  1 Geylang Serai, 402001

Want more WICKED?

The Cast of Wicked, Broadway Production By Joan Marcus

Chances are you’ve seen the show, the film, and know the words off by heart, but you can never get enough WICKED! From 19 March, for a limited season only, the musical is back on the red dot to highlight just why more than 70 million people worldwide have seen this spectacular phenomenon, making the musical the 4th longest running show in Broadway history! This time, a stellar Australian cast will tell the story of what happened long before Dorothy’s day, when two other young women meet in the land of Oz . . .
19 March – 27 April.  Sands Theatre, 10 Bayfront Ave, B1-69/70 The Shoppes, Marina Bay Sands, 018971. marinabaysands.com

Sweet Sorrow

Join Singapore Ballet for a family-friendly intro to Romeo & Juliet. Shakespeare’s timeless tale tells the story of forbidden romance between two young lovers from rival families, and showcases the drama of love, loss, and fate. The Metropolitan Festival Orchestra will accompany the ballet, making it unmissable.
13 – 16 March. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, 1 Esplanade Drive, 038981 sistic.com.sg

ANZA Netball Job Vacancy – Program Co-ordinator

ANZA Netball Job Vacancy banner. The ANZA Netball logo is displayed at the top, followed by the heading 'Job Vacancy' in a handwritten-style font. The text below announces an opening for a Program Co-ordinator, highlighting key benefits: part-time role with flexible hours, being part of a vibrant community, and the opportunity to enhance an already well-organised role

About Us
ANZA Netball is a not-for-profit organisation delivering quality netball programmes to girls aged 5 to 18 years. Our inclusive program provides opportunities for children of all abilities to play netball in a safe, positive, and encouraging environment.
Fair play, respect, skills development, and the fun and enjoyment of playing the game are the cornerstones of our program.

Our club thrives thanks to the dedication of parent volunteers and the expertise of professional coaches. ANZA Netball players and families build friendships with players and families from a range of diverse backgrounds and different schools here in Singapore.

The Program Co-ordinator role has been in place for 6 years at ANZA Netball and in that time, solid systems and procedures have been established to ensure the smooth running of the program. The role is responsible for continuing the day-to-day organisation and smooth operation of ANZA Netball activities.

Reporting to the ANZA Netball Committee, you’ll collaborate closely with the Head Coach, Committee and Age Group Coordinators (AGCs) to deliver an exceptional program. It is primarily an operational, Monday to Friday role however it requires occasional weekend availability to co-ordinate special events (e.g. tournaments) or to oversee Saturday operations.

You will serve as a key point of contact for ANZA Netball parents and coaches, fostering strong relationships to promote and enhance and grow the program.

You’ll need to be self-motivated and demonstrate exceptional organisational skills. You will have the ability to prioritise tasks effectively and to work independently and pro-actively to ensure all parts of the program are working cohesively. Crucial to your success in this role will be your excellent communication and collaboration skills and the ability to manage diverse stakeholders and multiple workstreams simultaneously.

This role is well supported by the ANZA office, a very hands-on Committee and an experienced Head Coach. The ANZA Netball program is well established, has an excellent reputation and is operating effectively. We are looking for someone who enjoys driving initiatives through to completion and someone who wants to help us take the program to the next level.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support the Committee and the Head Coach in the planning, delivery, and strategic development of the netball program.
  • Support the development of volunteers and coaches through the rollout of our newly enhanced training program, helping to ensure a high-quality experience for all.
  • Work with the Head Coach to co-ordinate the weekly scheduling of pro coaches, teen coaches and umpires.
  • Manage the booking of all training facilities.
  • Develop and maintain a seasonal calendar for training, games, trials, camps, and special events.
  • Act as a liaison with other netball clubs both in Singapore and abroad to build strong working relationships.
  • Administratively co-ordinate competition and event participation.
  • Support the Committee in the development of new events (eg. tournaments, leagues, workshops, visiting athletes).
  • Manage communications effectively, keeping all stakeholders (parents, coaches and Committee) informed of events, updates, and changes.
  • Work with the ANZA office to co-ordinate player registrations, official email communications and accounts.
  • Manage the equipment and equipment storage area to ensure it is well stocked and organised during each season.
  • Ensure a safe environment for participants and volunteers, championing safeguarding practices.
  • Schedule and take minutes for all Committee meetings.

Previous experience and skills required

  • Experience in planning, coordination, and management.
  • Proven experience in collaborating with and co-ordinating diverse stakeholders and driving initiatives forward to completion.
  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
  • Exceptional attention to detail and organisational abilities.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel and PowerPoint.
  • Familiar with the youth sports environment in Singapore.
  • Familiarity with Singapore’s netball landscape and international alignment a plus but not essential.
  • Knowledge of athlete pathways and youth sports programs is desirable but not essential.

What We Offer 

  • Flexibility around the structure of your working role – part-time, flexible options are possible. The role is offered as ‘work-from-home’.
  • The opportunity to work with a diverse team of volunteers and paid professional coaches on Singapore’s leading youth netball program.
  • Competitive salary.
  • Access to professional development and training opportunities.

Interested applicants please email your cover letter and CV to ANZA Netball Committee, netball@anza.org.sg

Applications close Friday, 14 March 2025.

Only Singaporeans, Permanent Residents, and those eligible to work in Singapore need apply.

Kampong Gelam Ramadan Bazaar 2025 – now on!

With Ramadan taking place at the end of March, Kampong Gelam (GKG) 2025 is back for the fifth installment of Ramadan celebrations. With a dynamic blend of food, culture, and vibrant energy, this year’s edition is bigger and better than ever. If you missed last year’s festival, which attracted a whopping 1.1 million visitors, now’s the time to mark your calendars until 23 March!

As always, this iconic event will spotlight the best of Kampong Gelam, celebrating heritage, community, and sustainability.

As part of the annual party in Singapore, the market for 2025 will feature 120 food, beverage, and retail vendors, including some faves such as Satay Ummi, Picanhas, Smashed Burger, Al Papi, and House of Lemang. From fusion food like Turkish ice cream from Turkuaz to traditional Malay snacks, you will not go hungry.

Always buzzy and beautiful, this event on Singapore’s packed cultural calendar is not to be missed. Soak up the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy the fun as the sun goes down around Bugis and the good times begin. If you need a break from eating, there’s also a huge range of non-foodie cultural activities available, from workshops to shopping.

Here’s what to look out for:

Sultan Mosque Light Show

The Sultan Mosque Light Show remains a key highlight of the event. This year, it will feature captivating visuals and a 5.1 surround sound experience crafted by Singaporean composer Sha’aban Yahya. The stunning display, which includes symbolic imagery like date trees and emotive music, will turn the mosque into a breathtaking visual spectacle. Check it out Friday – Sunday, 7:40pm – 9pm (in 15-minute intervals).

Traditional & Contemporary Performances

Live music includes the traditional Joget Parade to soulful Dikir Barat. Some local Malay celebrities, such as Hannah Delisha and Mimifly, will also be live on stage.

Kampong Tour

Enjoy a guided walk through Kampong Gelam with stops for traditional Malay snacks, plus a $15 voucher for the food bazaar.

Mystery Treasure Hunt

Don’t miss the chance to win up to $8,000 through a fun and interactive treasure hunt.
Stamp Rally: Collect stamps from four key locations to receive a unique postcard souvenir.
Mass Iftar: On 22 March, a community gathering of 1,000 people on Arab Street to break their fast together in a celebration of unity.

Interactive Workshops

* Arabic calligraphy at Erwan Bar’s workshop
* Coffee grounds exfoliating soap-making with Coffee Revive
* Dikir Barat puppet-making workshops for kids and the young at heart

Retail Vendors

Explore a range of retail stalls offering festive treats, traditional Malay fashion, and more at the bustling bazaar

Want more? This year, GKG will also focus on sustainability, introducing solar-powered generators, zero-waste efforts, and offering discounts to those who bring their own water bottles.

Step into the rich history and vibrant traditions of Kampong Glam, where the past meets the present in a lively melting pot of cultures. Wander through this historic neighbourhood, home to Bugis, Malays, Arabs, and South Indians, as we explore stunning mosques, bustling specialty shops, and striking street art.

ANZA Tour: Kampong Glam Islamic Heritage & Ramadan Food Bazaar

Looking for other opportunities to experience Ramadam? Visit the iconic Sultan Mosque, with its magnificent golden domes, and the Hajja Fatimah Mosque, famous for its leaning minaret. Stroll through local markets filled with Attar perfumes, Hajj essentials, and intricate prayer rugs, and immerse yourself in centuries-old Islamic traditions.

You’ll also get to experience the magical Raikan Cahaya bazaar! As the sun sets, watch the streets come alive with dazzling lights and indulge in delicious local treats like kebabs, nasi lemak, and traditional sweets (food at your own cost).

Join us for an unforgettable journey through one of Singapore’s most fascinating districts! Register here.

Celebrating World Book Day: Why reading is key for kids

In a world that is becoming increasingly image-focused, it’s a joy to celebrate World Book Day, an annual celebration of books and reading. Created by UNESCO in 1995, World Book Day is now observed in over 100 countries worldwide in the first week of March.

Schools across Singapore eagerly take part in this global occasion, and host a range of events that encourage children to discover the magic of books. This week sees book fairs, book readings and signings, and creative workshops taking place across the island to foster a deeper connection to literature.

Kids dressing up as their favourite book character is a highlight (albeit a potential stress-inducer for parents!), which is a cool and creative way for little ones to engage with the themes and characters they read about. Additionally, schools in Singapore use World Book Day as an opportunity to build a reading culture. Students are encouraged to share stories, participate in book swaps, and engage in storytelling sessions.

Ultimately, the celebration serves as a reminder of the powerful impact books can have on our lives. It’s a party promoting the written word, helping to instill a lifelong passion for reading in youngsters while highlighting its endless benefits.

ANZA member Theo all dressed up for Book Week!

Why Reading Is Crucial for Your Child’s Development

  1. It Sparks Imagination Books are the entry point to imagination. Whether your child is lost in a story about cyber creatures or old-skool adventures, reading sparks the mind, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Each page they turn opens the door to new possibilities, boosting their creativity and problem-solving abilities.
  2. It Fosters Empathy Through stories, children step into the shoes of diverse characters, experiencing different perspectives and emotions. This immersion helps develop empathy, allowing them to better understand and connect with others.
  3. It Strengthens Social Skills Reading isn’t just about language; it’s about learning to interact. By following characters through challenges and social situations, kids gain insights into effective communication and problem-solving. This can help them to navigate their own relationships, refining their social skills and forging deeper connections with peers.
  4. It Enhances Concentration In today’s fast-paced world, focusing for extended periods is a skill many children struggle with. However, the act of reading strengthens this. Whether reading silently or listening attentively to a story, the habit encourages sustained attention, benefiting your child not just in school but in every aspect of life.
  5. It Builds Confidence Reading can initially feel daunting, especially when faced with new words or tricky pronunciations. But as children practice and succeed, their confidence grows. Familiarity with words breeds fluency, and the more they read, the more assured they become, taking on more complex material with ease and pride.
  6. It Introduces Diversity & Culture Books offer glimpses into a wide variety of cultures, beliefs, and experiences, something which is key in multi-racial Singapore. By encouraging your child to explore different stories, you broaden their worldview and promote acceptance of diverse perspectives.
  7. It Expands Vocabulary Each book your child reads is an opportunity to encounter new words and phrases. As they understand words through context, they develop a deeper connection to language, which enhances word association, rhyming skills, and overall comprehension.
  8. It Creates Special Bonding Moments Reading together strengthens the bond between you and your child. The shared experience of discovering new characters and stories cultivates a sense of togetherness, while helping your child develop a lifelong love of reading. By making reading a regular part of your routine, you create treasured moments to look forward to every day.

As education activist and the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize laureate at the age of 17, Malala Yousafzai, wisely said, “One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.” Introducing your child to the joy of reading teaches them to cherish books as valuable resources for both learning and entertainment. The early gift of reading is one that can shape their future.

 

10 minutes with Nelmalyn Olivia

Nelmalyn, second from left, with her swim buddies at Splash Foundation

Congrats on completing the programme! When did you first hear about it?
Back in 2022, here in Singapore, through my previous employer. The programme was first introduced to the domestic helpers of the students of United World College (UWC), where the child I looked after was studying.

What most appealed to you about it?
Growing up in the Philippines, I lived near the sea and rivers, so I was lucky to learn to swim as a child but received no formal training. I wanted to improve my swimming skills and learn new techniques. What appealed to me most was the opportunity to challenge myself physically and mentally, while developing my self-discipline and time-management skills. I also wanted to boost my self-confidence and self-esteem.

How did you feel when you signed up?
I was extremely excited but also a bit on edge and sceptical! The programme spanned 12 weeks, every Sunday at UWC Dover Campus. As it was open to all domestic helpers, I soon settled in when I got together with participants from Indonesia, Myanmar, and other countries.

Nelmalyn (second from left) is now a Graduate Coach

What techniques did you learn?
A balance of practical skills, such as good breathing, diving properly, treading water, and performing turns, alongside theoretical knowledge of swimming, including water safety, buoyancy, and improving techniques.

What was your favourite part of the programme?
The supportive team environment, our coaches, team captains, and my co-splashers, who all motivated me to push my limits.

Any frustrations?
Dealing with disappointments was the most challenging part of the programme, primarily due to my initial struggles with self-doubt and fear of failure. These disappeared when I discovered surprising things about myself, such as my ability to swim longer distances. In time I learnt that I could overcome doubt by achieving my goals.

What other skills did you improve on?
I developed valuable teamwork and communication skills that enhanced my ability to collaborate and connect with others. As my confidence improved through swimming, I learned to believe in myself and establish a growth mindset.

How has Splash Foundation Programme changed your life?
It changed me a lot as a person. It has expanded my perspective on life and taught me to deal with challenges and persevere, both in and out of the pool. I’m happy and grateful to say that thanks to my time as a Beginner Splasher, I am now a Graduate Coach.

splashfoundation.org

Draw 1: Win a fully stocked wine fridge

Enter the Global Financial Consultants prize draw and stand a chance to win a wine fridge complete with a curated selection of fine wines! This sleek cooler guarantees perfect chilling for your wines, offering a delightful tasting experience. Elevate your wine enjoyment today!

About Global Financial Consultants
Founded by Bruce Barron and Ian McMahon in 1997, Global Financial Consultants originated in Sydney, Australia, and relocated to Singapore in 2003. Their mission for the past two decades has remained constant: safeguarding your financial security and providing trustworthy and comprehensive solutions for the future thanks to a diverse and knowledgeable team of consultants. Regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), they provide reliable financial planning advice for Singaporeans, expatriates, and corporations.

Draw 2: Win Apple HomePod

Want to make your home smarter with an intelligent assistant and get an immersive music experience?  Win an Apple HomePod sponsored by Odin Mortgage & Tax and make your home comfortable and effortlessly modern.

 

About Odin Mortgage & Tax
Odin Mortgage & Tax offers an integrated approach, combining Australian property purchase services with tax consultation. This ensures a seamless experience, saving you time and stress. Our one-stop solution allows you to focus on your life abroad while our specialists handle the complexities.

Learn more on our website or speak to our specialists today.

Draw 3: Win “Wild Blueberry” artwork by artist Sylvie Kettle

Sylvie Kettle – Wild Blueberry [76.5 x 81cm, Framed Print, Signed, Edition 3/10]
Enter the Art Works Advisory prize draw and you could be taking home “Wild Blueberry” by Sylvie Kettle to adorn your walls.

Sylvie Kettle is an exciting emerging artist from the Northern Rivers, known for merging feminine landscapes with bold mark-making and a dreamlike use of colour. There is a very “Australian” feel to her works, bathed in sunlight, and composed to evoke a new way of seeing your memories. Sylvie has exhibited internationally from Melbourne to LA with a global collector base.

 

About ArtWorks Advisory
The Art Works Group is a leading art advisory group in Asia committed to delivering education, transparency, and market insight to assist art collectors, investors, and enthusiasts in the world of fine art. They provide comprehensive advice and guidance on all aspects of art investment and collecting.

Draw 4: Win an iPad 10th Generation 64GB WiFi

Enter the CM Relocation prize draw and you could win an iPad 10th Generation 64GB WiFi!
Colourfully reimagined and more versatile than ever, it comes with an all-screen design and 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display. iPad delivers a powerful way to create, stay connected and get things done (plus it looks super-cool!)

 

 

 

About CM Relocation
CM Relocation is an International moving company based in Singapore. Over the years of organic growth, mergers and acquisitions, they have grown to be one of the leading locally owned moving companies in Singapore and serve private individuals as well as corporate, government and military customers.