What to Expect
Step into the historic campus of the Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped (SAVH), their home since the 1950s, and gain rare insight into the world of the visually impaired. This immersive programme will take you behind the scenes to meet the dedicated staff who support clients in navigating life without sight — from teaching vital mobility skills to navigating pavements and public transport, to producing braille versions of popular novels, and even using smartphones and AI-powered tools to "see" the world.
Participants will begin their journey at the Low Vision Clinic, where clients are first assessed and supported based on their degree of vision loss. Then, explore the Assistive Devices Centre, where you can get hands-on with tools that empower independence — including walking canes, magnifiers, talking clocks, and more.
The visit continues to the Braille Library, a vital resource for the blind community, and the Day Care Centre, which supports elderly clients with visual impairment.
You'll also go behind the scenes at the Braille Production Centre, where printed materials are painstakingly converted into braille, tactile graphics, and audio books. Meet Jason Setok, supervisor of the centre, and Hafiz Misran, librarian at the SAVH Braille Library — both of whom are visually impaired — as they share their personal stories of resilience, adaptation, and growth. Learn how access to knowledge and evolving technology have supported their journeys toward greater independence, alongside the unwavering support of family, mentors, and loved ones.
Throughout the tour, you'll meet and hear from visually impaired staff members who will share deeply personal reflections — including the challenges of losing sight later in life, and the strength it takes to relearn everyday tasks, reconnect with the world, and live independently again.
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
The Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped (SAVH), formerly known as the Singapore Association for the Blind (SAB), is one of the Social Service Agencies (SSAs) for the visually impaired. Founded in 1951, the association is affiliated to the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) and is an approved Institution of a Public Character (IPC). Their mission is to help the visually handicapped help themselves by acquiring new skills and gaining self-reliance to cope with the integration into society.
About the Host
Jason Setok’s Journey
Jason Setok’s path into vision loss began with a deeply traumatic experience. Diagnosed with glaucoma, his sight declined gradually and then suddenly. A former software engineer, Jason found himself unable to rely on the very tools that once defined his career. Even basic tasks, like using a computer, became overwhelming. “I had to relearn everything,” he recalls. He started with small yet significant changes liker arranging his home for better mobility, relying on muscle memory, and most importantly, leaning on the support of friends and a new community he found at the Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped (SAVH).
Through SAVH, Jason joined a support group, connecting with others navigating similar challenges. His journey of rebuilding began with Orientation and Mobility (O&M) training, which equipped him with the skills to move safely and confidently through daily environments. He also completed Braille development training, a stepping stone that enabled him to take on meaningful employment within the organisation.
Today, Jason plays a key role at the Braille Production Centre at SAVH, where he oversees the conversion of printed materials into Braille ensuring information remains accessible for individuals with visual impairment. Recognising his dedication and capability, SAVH promoted Jason to a supervisory position in 2022. His lived experience and professional growth have made him a respected leader and a role model within the organisation.
Jason’s resilience also shines beyond the workplace. From tackling vision loss to rock climbing, he continues to challenge limits and inspire others. He often reflects on one key lesson: the importance of regular eye pressure checks which is something he now encourages others to prioritise.
Hafiz Misran’s Path
Born with retinitis pigmentosa, Hafiz Misran has lived with low vision since childhood. Today, he retains just 7–8% of his sight. A graduate of Lighthouse School, Hafiz joined SAVH as a young adult and has since become an integral part of the team. As a librarian, he manages a free reading service that loans out audio and Braille books to SAVH members and oversees a growing podcast library, accessible via Dropbox or thumb drives. His work is essential in promoting accessible reading and lifelong learning for the visually impaired community.
Hafiz also benefitted from Orientation and Mobility training, which helped him build confidence and independence in his daily life. His creativity and enthusiasm extend well beyond his professional role whom he is an avid Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner at Evolve MMA, and a talented guitarist and singer. Hafiz embodies the spirit of self-expression and determination, demonstrating that visual impairment is not a barrier to leading a full and active life.
SAVH’s Role in Their Growth
SAVH has played a foundational role in supporting both Jason and Hafiz through personalised services, rehabilitation programmes, and vocational training. From mobility training and employment opportunities to community integration and peer support, SAVH remains committed to empowering individuals with visual impairment to grow, contribute, and thrive.
Both Jason and Hafiz are shining examples of how accessibility, opportunity, and belief in one's potential can transform lives. Their stories reflect not only personal courage but also the power of a supportive environment in helping individuals reclaim purpose and possibility.
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 Yusof Building, SAVH, 47 Toa Payoh Rise, Singapore 298104
- 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
- Limited parking is available at SAVH.
- The venue is not wheelchair friendly.
- 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.
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- Visit mycommunity.org.sg to learn about our initiatives.
- Visit mycommunityfestival.sg for all our latest updates.
