SP Alumni, Leong Mun Kit, SMU lee kong chian Scholar

Leong Mun Kit
Diploma in Tourism & Resort Management (This course has been retired)
Class of 2021

Recipient of
- SMU Lee Kong Chian Scholars Programme
- EDGE Talent Programme

My time in SP has been nothing short of transformative. It all began with my involvement in community service, where I not only honed my leadership skills but also discovered my true passion for making a difference. The Learning Express programme at the end of my first year took me on an unforgettable journey. This overseas social innovation project reinforced my desire to be a change maker, inspiring me to think about new initiatives and policies that could positively impact society. 

As a regular volunteer with the Nee Soon East Community Club Youth Network (YN), I had the opportunity to network, organize events, and interact with people from all walks of life. These experiences were invaluable, broadening my perspective and deepening my empathy. 

One of the most fulfilling chapters of my SP journey was a 22-week internship with the Changi Airport Group as a Changi Youth Ambassador. Working in the Ground Operations and Customer Service section, I traversed various terminals, assisting passengers and addressing incidents. This role was both challenging and rewarding, teaching me the importance of patience and service excellence. 

Reflecting on my time at SP, one of the most impactful experiences was being part of the EDGE Programme. The Safe Water Gardens Project in Bintan was particularly memorable, as it allowed me to conceptualize the team’s Zero Waste empowerment programme. Despite not achieving the PSC Scholarship, reaching the final panel interview was a significant milestone. The preparation was rigorous — staying in school until 10 pm, returning on weekends to refine my interview skills and stay updated on current affairs. I am deeply grateful to my lecturers and EDGE mentors who dedicated their time, even on weekends and after office hours, to guide me. EDGE has provided me with numerous learning opportunities and experiences that have equipped me to grow and excel further. 

The friendships I forged through EDGE were equally enriching. Each member inspired me in unique ways, and I learned something valuable from every EDGE student. They are all highly talented and motivated individuals, and their influence has been instrumental in my personal and professional development. 

EDGE has given me the extra push to be the best I can be, supporting my aspirations and goals. Reflecting on my journey in SP, I realize how significantly EDGE has contributed to my growth. Coming from a lower-income family, the EDGE programme helped me gain the skills and confidence to secure a spot in the prestigious SMU Lee Kong Chian Scholars' Programme. This scholarship has been a financial boon for my family and me, enabling me to pursue my university studies. It also opened doors to global opportunities — I spent three months interning in Shanghai, attended a humanitarian symposium at the United Nations in Bangkok, participated in an exchange programme in Sweden, and most recently, a summer exchange at the University of Cambridge. Given my background, I never imagined I could access such international experiences. 

Recently, I was honoured to be one of the speakers at Mediacorp’s inaugural Career Forward event held at Sands Expo & Convention Centre in March 2024. These experiences have shaped me into the person I am today, and I am profoundly grateful for every opportunity and challenge that has come my way. 

Don’t be shy, don’t let circumstances limit you. Cherish, embrace and learn from opportunities provided by SP; you never know where they may lead.

"The path to securing a scholarship is challenging, yet it is a rewarding and fulfilling journey."