On 18 January 2025, the Group hosted a celebration at PARKROYAL on Beach Road to recognise the achievements of children and youth from ComLink+ @ Jurong West who took part in the UOL-PPHG Community Uplift Programme over the past year. The event was graced by Mr Desmond Lee, Minister-in-Charge of Social Services Integration and Adviser to West Coast Grassroots Organisations.
This year, the Programme will expand its support to include weekly Mathematics tuition for more than 65 primary and secondary school children and youth, amounting to $100,000. In addition, the Group will sponsor regular weekly enrichment sessions for primary and secondary school children, empowering ComLink+ students to pursue their interest in sports, art and music.
Speaking to about 200 guests, Minister Lee thanked UOL and Pan Pacific Hotels Group for their steadfast support for ComLink+. He said: “The UOL-PPHG Community Uplift Programme is a unique model that showcases how strong partnership between the Government, corporates and the community can make a big impact in the community. By providing opportunities for learning and growth, the programme empowers children living in rental housing to learn new skills, build their confidence, and pursue their dreams. I am encouraged to see how the programme has grown over the past two years to enrich the lives of our ComLink+ families.”
As part of the pilot for sponsored regular enrichment classes, nine-year-olds Emily and Kylie from ComLink+ benefitted in the second half of 2024. Emily’s art courses have enhanced her communication and perspective, while Kylie’s badminton training improved her decision-making and boosted her self-confidence.
UOL and PPHG piloted a year-long culinary arts programme with ComLink+ for 20 youth aged 13 to 18, where they learned cooking, baking and pastry-making under the guidance of PPHG chefs. The well-received programme increased participants’ confidence in helping at home. Building on its success, the Group will introduce regular sessions for those committed to pursuing culinary interests.
PPHG Executive Director, Sustainability Partnerships, Lifestyle & Asset Wee Wei Ling said: “We are grateful to walk this journey with them, offering support as they strive to create meaningful opportunities for their children. These families remind us that success is not just about individual achievements but about the collective effort of a community working together to uplift one another.”
This year’s celebration recognised three exemplary ComLink+ families for their progress and growth, new UOL mall tenants and partners for supporting activities in 2024, and six UOL and PPHG volunteers for their dedication.
Click here to learn more about the year-round events organised under the UOL-PPHG Community Uplift Programme in 2024.
The UOL-PPHG Community Uplift Programme Celebrations 2025 was held on 18 January 2025 at PARKROYAL on Beach Road.