Muhamad Ilhan bin Muhammad has already lived through more than his fair share of challenges. Currently serving his National Service, he reflects on his past with a newfound sense of clarity, likening his life’s journey to the transformation from a cup of bitter black coffee to a well-balanced latte.

Growing up, Ilhan’s school years were far from smooth sailing. By Secondary 2, he began losing focus, spending more time playing around than studying. Things took a drastic turn in Secondary 3 when he became embroiled in a police case. A confrontation between him and his friends led to his school filing a police report. To make matters worse, his school ultimately refused his return until the case was settled. Forced to leave formal education, he started working as a packer.

A helping hand

It was during this uncertain time that his school counsellor introduced him to the YMCA Vocational and Soft Skills Programme (VaSSP), a six-month initiative aimed at enhancing the employability of youths aged 14 to 21, particularly those who are out of school or at risk.

It offers specialised vocational tracks such as barista training, culinary arts, baking, digital marketing, and hairdressing. The programme is one of several supported by SGSHARE, a national giving programme by Community Chest, designed to provide a reliable and sustained source of funding for more than 200 critical social service programmes.

Though initially hesitant, Ilhan’s mother—his biggest supporter and confidante — convinced him to give the VaSSP a shot.

“My mum is my best friend,” he shares. “She’s always there for me, guiding me through right and wrong.” Her advice and encouragement led him to enrol in the barista training course under VaSSP, a decision that would change his life in ways he never expected.

The barista training proved to be more than just a crash course in coffee-making. Though initially drawn to the technical aspects — grinding beans, hand brewing, calibrating machines — it was the artistry of creating latte art that truly captivated him. More than that, the experience taught him patience, discipline, and the satisfaction of mastering a craft.

Beyond technical skills, the VaSSP also provided him with crucial life lessons in self-discovery and conflict resolution. “Not every problem needs a reaction,” Ilhan admits. “Sometimes the best reaction is to stay quiet and move on.” These lessons have reshaped his approach to life, steering him away from impulsive decisions and towards a more thoughtful and measured perspective.

His trainers and mentors at YMCA have played a crucial role in his transformation. Initially resistant to learning, he recalls how his old counsellor persuaded him that these were skills he could carry for life. Their unwavering support helped him complete the course and emerge with a renewed sense of purpose.

Looking onwards and upwards

Since completing the VaSSP, Ilhan’s life has taken a positive turn. “Without the course, I wouldn’t have been working full-time (before NS). My life would have been the same old thing — unmotivated and lost,” he confesses. The structured nature of his work has given him a sense of stability and direction, and for the first time in a long while, he envisions a future he’s excited about.

Every hardship is a lesson

Reflecting on the support he has received from the Community Chest and programmes like VaSSP, Ilhan sees every hardship as a lesson. “It’s been a blessing. Whatever happens to me is a lesson; it’s just how I deal with it.”

Ilhan’s growth is both a personal triumph and a testament to the power of community support in empowering our youths. SGSHARE relies on donations to support such programmes, helping young people find their path and realise their potential.

To other youths who may be facing similar struggles, he offers a piece of advice learned through experience: “Don’t let one mistake ruin your whole perspective on life. Try to stay positive.”

Through SGSHARE, donors can contribute monthly or make one-time donations. 100% of proceeds will go directly to empower communities in need, such as children with special needs and youth-at-risk, adults with disabilities, persons with mental health conditions, and seniors and families in need of assistance. Every donation counts, together, we can build a brighter future for Singaporeans in need.

Find out how you can contribute at www.giving.sg/sg60share/.