Despite having her limitations, Eileen focused on how her strengths can be used to give back to the community.

Born premature, Eileen has had to walk with assistance since she was young, and for safety reasons, she uses a motorised wheelchair to move around. Despite the limitations in mobility, Eileen is determined to give back to society.

After passing PSLE, Eileen moved from a special needs school to a mainstream school to continue her studies. She was inspired by her new friends, who were actively engaging in community service. After much contemplation, she decided to volunteer for the first time at the Y-Digital Arts and Y-Bookstop - a series of volunteering opportunities organised by a Youth Corps Leaders Programme team.?

With Y-Digital Arts and Y-Bookstop being her first volunteering experiences, Eileen learned more about herself and the people similar to her. Eileen noted, “I know we have our struggles, but we also have our strengths.” Through her volunteering experiences, she could see the talents of those with special needs. The experience taught her to look beyond one’s weaknesses.

Eileen shared that persons with special needs can serve the community too. “I think it is? essential that we give back to society and not only be on the receiving end.” She felt that volunteering and giving back would allow them to see and recognise their strengths.?

Eileen feels it is essential for persons with special needs to be given the platform to contribute and give back as any other volunteer. These opportunities will help to address the wrongful perception that persons with special needs are always the ones that need help. Being involved in these volunteering opportunities, they would feel integrated into society rather than a cause to be served.

Eileen hopes to continue to do good for the community. When asked how she feels projects can be more inclusive, Eileen shared that communicating with them and reaching out based on their strengths would help.?