Stories

Growth comes full circle.

Wen Jian and his mother lived in the same block as Yong-en Care Centre’s office. Through word of mouth, his mother visited the office to learn more and soon signed him up for tuition.

What began as a place for homework help and supplementary classes soon became a community of encouragement and growth. Wen Jian fondly remembers Yong-en’s point system and the excitement of exchanging points for stationery prizes, simple rewards that meant so much as a child. He also vividly recalls sessions with a tutor who would challenge him with Math Olympiad questions. Strong in Math, Wen Jian enjoyed the challenge and the opportunity to stretch his thinking beyond the classroom.

Over time, Yong-en became more than just a study space. From Christmas parties to community events, it was a place where he felt supported, encouraged, and seen. These experiences built resilience and confidence that carried him through the demanding years of junior college, university life at Nanyang University of Singapore, and eventually into the working world.

Years later, Wen Jian returned to Yong-en, this time as a volunteer tutor.

“I just wanted to help out however I could. I believe education is very important, so I wanted to pass on whatever knowledge and experience I have to the younger students.” he shared.

Now seated on the other side of the classroom, he now guides students with the same patience and encouragement he once received. Watching them grow in confidence reminded him of his own journey and how small acts of care can shape a life.

Though he stepped back from volunteering last year due to personal commitments, Wen Jian remains closely connected to Yong-en and is always willing to lend a helping hand whenever needed, a reflection of the strong bonds he continues to share with the staff and children.

To Wen Jian, giving back means investing in the next generation. Guidance and encouragement can leave a lasting impact, become part of a child’s core memories, just as his own experiences at Yong-en remain vivid today.

His story reflects Yong-en’s enduring legacy: strength in every story, growth in every generation, and a circle of care that continues to inspire new paths forward.