Reflecting On My Internship with WE CARE

September 2025

Perspectives: Intern

Writing this personal reflection has taken quite some time – there is so much to say about my time in Singapore, and my internship at WE CARE. The writing process has been somewhat of a marathon, one during which I have had to take time to stop and think at the occasional rest points. Now I am approaching the finishing line.  

My journey to Singapore is somewhat similar to a test of endurance. I could relate it to the One Day At A Time campaign, the physical fundraiser that was taking place at WE CARE. When I first came across the opportunity to intern in Singapore, it felt like a dream – one that was close yet so far. To see myself in Singapore was like a distant reality.  

One of the most transformative aspects of my internship was not just the professional skills I continued developing while at WE CARE, but also my own personal journey that led me to this opportunity. Before my internship began, I had to overcome a major hurdle: getting to Singapore. In the months leading up to my dream internship, I embarked on a fundraising campaign to support my programme fees. This was not an easy road, it was long and winding with countless steps and stumbles along the way. Reaching out to donors, editing videos or even finding time to balance it all alongside my studies. However, each small victory gave me the momentum to continue climbing. It taught me the value of perseverance, persistence and patience. I finally saw a dream become a reality and lived it in such a beautiful way.  

WE CARE was the beauty I witnessed in a world of despair and hardship. From my first day, one thing I felt was love. I have always felt welcome here at the centre – that will always stay with me.  

Love for one another was so evident, heartwarming and touching. Authenticity was embraced and encouraged here.  

Working at WE CARE for the 4 weeks I was in Singapore is something I will always cherish. The team does not only dream about creating a safe space but makes a true effort to live in it and help others access this. There is a genuine commitment to holding space for growth, vulnerability and exploring human complexities. People are always encouraged to show up as their true, full selves – without judgement. During my time there, I was honoured to engage with a wide range of people – ranging from recovering and sober individuals to volunteers and workers who all widened my perspective and outlook on life.  

Celebrating each other is something we do not do enough as a society. This is what I noticed during my time at WE CARE – those little moments that pass us by are moments savoured by the community there. The Finisher Awards, the signature WE CARE ceremony to celebrate sobriety, was an event that touched me. We live in a world where addiction is very easy to get roped into – whether it is substance abuse or behavioural. Oftentimes, where I come from, society looks down on those who are addicts. It is uncommon to have much awareness about the length of sobriety or celebrations to mark it. For me to see this side of society was meaningful and perhaps it takes a bit of digging to uncover the hidden treasures we did not think we had.  

Being part of the Finisher Awards preparation was exciting as we knew what kind of a gratifying impact it would have. It was an intimate and warming event that gave us insight into what it is like in addiction and recovery where heartfelt stories were shared and families saw the glow in their loved ones returning. Though it was an intimate gathering, I had never been witness to such evident pride in those who had travelled on this journey with the award recipients.  

WE CARE is a centre which shows what society should be like. It brings together a community of people. Reframing lives through classes, support groups and counselling. I am grateful that I was able to dip my toes into what WE CARE offers: Art classes with Yen, Music, Playing the Chinese drums, Training sessions, University visits and having the comfort of expression in the main lounge room where I played the drums, guitar and piano – as well as making a connection with others through shared interests.  

 

By Davina 

Davina is currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in International Relations and Development at University of Birmingham. With a strong focus and passion for community development and youth empowerment, she aims to drive impactful change in marginalised populations. Outside of academics, she is passionate about creating—whether through art, dance, music, or playing the trumpet. She interned at the centre in July 2025.