The North East Community Development Council (NE CDC) launched the first Kiat Lim–Shaping Hearts Award yesterday (Sep 25) at The Fullerton Hotel Singapore.
The gathering, attended by David Neo, Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, recognized 83 individuals with disabilities (PwDs) by presenting them with art scholarships, financial aid, and early intervention grants to assist in their artistic growth.
Supported by the Lim Family Foundation, which has made a S$1 million, five-year pledge from entrepreneur Kiat Lim, the Kiat Lim–Shaping Hearts Award wasreleased in November last year. It is part of the NE CDC's continuous Shaping Hearts initiative, Singapore's biggest inclusive arts program, which offers individuals with disabilities opportunities to display and nurture their artistic talents.
Mayor Baey Yam Keng from the North East District stated, “The Kiat Lim-Shaping Hearts Award strengthens our dedication to guarantee that individuals with disabilities have fair access to opportunities that foster their development, artistic expression, and self-assurance.”
This program is not merely an acknowledgment of their creative abilities—it highlights our combined power when we unite for inclusivity. Through committed partners such as Kiat Lim, whose involvement extends beyond financial backing to strategic cooperation, we can establish broader platforms and make a significant, enduring difference for our artists.
Assisting musicians at every phase
The honors were given out across three categories:
- Kiat Lim - Award for Hearts ShiningFor artists showcasing high-level skills and promising career prospects. Winners were presented with an award certificate and S$5,000.
- Kiat Lim - Shaping Hearts Encouraging Award: For people who incorporate art into their everyday lives for personal or community growth. Beneficiaries were presented with a certificate and S$2,000.
- Kiat Lim - Cultivating Hearts Emerging AwardFor kids under seven, art serves as a preliminary intervention method. Beneficiaries were given an award plaque along with S$1,000.
They assist beneficiaries by providing training to discover new artistic expressions, utilizing art to enhance communication and physical coordination, and supplying art supplies.
The accolades further expand upon the council's previous HeARTS Award, which offered 20 bursaries and 10 scholarships to persons with disabilities in 2024. Former HeARTS awardees have subsequently pursued structured art education, guided their peers as mentors, and presented their artwork publicly.
"This effort focuses on providing genuine opportunities for individuals with disabilities—not merely to display their creative abilities, but to be recognized as a vital component of Singapore," said Lim.
I am convinced that by providing individuals with disabilities the support and recognition they merit, we build a more resilient and empathetic community. I am honored to back a program that amplifies their voices and enables them to shine through the Lim Family Foundation.
Creating a diverse arts environment
The gathering last night included a unique appearance by JJ Lin, the Founder & CEO of JFJ Productions, who was present with Minister Neo, Mayor Baey, Minister of State Desmond Choo, and Kiat Lim in creating a joint artwork with a Shaping Hearts artist who has special needs. This artwork will be showcased at the upcoming Shaping Hearts 2025 exhibitions.
Visitors were also touched by a performance from Adelyn Koh, a talented young artist who has special needs, prior to the awards ceremony and a silent auction aimed at supporting artists with disabilities.
Many beneficiaries found the acknowledgment to be a driving force for development. "Getting the Shining Award motivated me to elevate my art," shared Ashley Ang, an award winner. "It provided me with the encouragement and confidence I needed to experiment with new methods, delve into fresh concepts, and feel greater pride in my work."
Through such efforts, the NE CDC keeps growing the "Shaping Hearts" program in collaboration with its partners, offering opportunities for individuals with disabilities to display their abilities, motivate others, and achieve fulfilling careers through their artistic expressions.
Featured Image Source: Vulcan Post