What to Expect
Are we taking the way we move around our neighbourhoods for granted? Despite having been a part of the Tiong Bahru neighbourhood for decades, clients and beneficiaries of SPD still face challenges navigating the surrounding neighbourhood. As you walk through the Tiong Bahru streets and alleyways, you will take note of the every day conveniences that we take for granted, such as steps, curbs, and narrow walkways, that present challenges for others.
Participants can look forward to touring the SPD building, including a visit to the sheltered workshop where trainees are given a chance to gain valuable vocational skills in a real work environment, working towards future full-time employment and independence. Then, visit the rehabilitation centres where Principal Physiotherapist Pauline Koh will show you how a customised rehab programme is designed for each SPD client - each individual disability is different, and each client has a different goal, from being able to independently perform daily tasks, to returning to the mainstream workforce completely.
Finally, sit down with SPD clients Mikail Wong and Jean Ling and hear their heartfelt tales of resilience and rebirth - both grappling with the challenges of learning to live life anew after a severe spinal injury, whilst balancing their roles and responsibilities as a spouse and a parent - proving that life doesnt stop in the face of challenges.
About Birth & Rebirths
What does it mean to be reborn? For some, it is a spiritual awakening—being baptised, embracing a new faith, or finding solace in age-old rituals that mark a transition into a different way of living. For others, rebirth comes in the form of reinvention—leaving behind a troubled past, overcoming illness, or finding purpose after loss. From ex-residents who have rebuilt their lives, to individuals who have found strength in faith, community, or personal conviction, their stories remind us that transformation is always possible.
Through facilitated dialogues with the social workers, and people on the fringes of our society we hope to provide opportunities for participants to engage in candid and heartfelt conversations.
About the Organisation
Established in 1964, SPD is a social service agency in Singapore that seeks to enable people with disabilities of all ages, or who may develop disabling conditions, to be as independent and self-reliant as possible. Today, the pioneer in serving people with physical disabilities also provides therapy, early intervention, employment and educational support, as well as case management and social support and respite for caregivers to help people with different disabilities so that they can participate in school, work and daily life within mainstream society.
About the Host
Jean Ling is a devoted mother, adventurer, and advocate for disability inclusion. After a car accident left her paralysed eleven years ago, Jean faced immense physical and emotional challenges—but she never let her condition define her. Now a proud mother of three, Jean navigates motherhood with resilience, creativity, and an unbreakable spirit. From finding adaptive ways to bond with her kids to trying out horse riding, rock climbing, and even adaptive skiing, Jean lives by the mantra: focus on what is possible, seek help for the rest.
Mikail Wong is a devoted husband, father, and adaptive sports enthusiast whose life took a dramatic turn in 2020 when a rare spinal condition left him paralysed from the chest down. Once a taxi driver and gym enthusiast, Mikail found new purpose through wheelchair rugby, where he rediscovered his strength and built a community of support. Alongside his wife of over two decades, Siti Nooraini, Mikail has navigated life’s challenges with resilience, love, and unwavering determination. Today, the couple shares a deeper bond than ever, proving that with the right support and mindset, there’s always a way forward.
Who should come?
- Everyone is welcome to participate!
- Participants 12 years and under must be accompained and surpervised by a parent/guardian at all times.
Programme Details
- Approximate Duration: 2 hours (Please arrive 15 minutes before the event for registration.)
- Language: English
- Meeting Point: Meet at the Entrance to SPD Headquarters (2 Peng Nguan Street, SPD Ability Centre Singapore 168955)
- Ending Point: The event will start and end at the same point.
- The event will proceed rain or shine.
What to bring?
- Participants should be dressed respectfully in smart casual (i.e. collared shirt, long pants and covered shoes). Sleeveless attire, shorts/miniskirts or sandals are strictly not allowed. Participants will be denied entry if they dress inappropriately.
- Participants should bring along an umbrella and a bottle of water.
- Asthmatic individuals are encouraged to bring their inhaler.
Other important information
- Parking is available nearby at 78/80 Chay Yan St, Singapore 169900.
- The venue is wheelchair accessible.
- Photography is allowed at selected locations during the event.
Disclaimer
- By agreeing to participate in the event, participants are responsible for any injury, loss or damage due to the negligence on his/her part or of the children under his/her charge.
- Participants must abide by the house rules set out by the host. Facilitators will brief participants at the start of the programme.
- Videos and photographs may also be taken during the event. By registering for this event, you give My Community full rights to use the photos for marketing and publicity.
For updates:
- Follow us at @mycommunitysg on Instagram and @myqueenstown on Facebook.
- Visit mycommunity.org.sg to learn about our initiatives.
- Visit mycommunityfestival.sg for all our latest updates.
