NextGen
PHILANTHROPISTS
From 27 to 30 June 2025, the Singapore Good Soil Foundation brought a selected group of students from the NextGen Philanthropy Leadership Program 2025 as well as Teaching Assistants who were returning students from the class of 2024 on an Advanced Learning Journey to Bali for an immersive four-day experience blending leadership, service, and cultural discovery.
This exclusive program, designed for students who have shown exceptional commitment to philanthropy and community-building, was not just a trip abroad, but a chance to step into the field, connect with local non-profit initiatives, and deepen their understanding of philanthropic leadership.
The program began with an emphasis on real-world impact. Students spent a meaningful morning at Seeds of Hope Orphanage, engaging with children through activities and mentorship.
This hands-on experience gave students a close-up view of how grassroots organizations create life-changing opportunities for vulnerable communities.
Later in the trip, a visit to the Bali Children Foundation deepened their understanding of the power of education. Students witnessed how local initiatives are tackling systemic challenges, creating a lasting impression of what sustained social impact looks like on the ground.
During the visit, participants learned how BCF’s programs tackle critical issues such as poverty, school dropout rates, and gender inequality. Students were able to engage directly with BCF’s team, gaining a first-hand understanding of how localized, community-driven solutions can break the cycle of poverty. Many participants described this visit as a turning point in their perspective : realizing that education is not just a tool for personal advancement but a powerful catalyst for societal change.
Evenings were reserved for structured reflection sessions : spaces where students discussed the day’s lessons, shared personal breakthroughs, and connected their experiences to the larger mission of philanthropy.
A key highlight of the program was a leadership seminar led by Mr. Viswa Sadasivan, former Nominated Member of Parliament and Managing Consultant of Strategic Moves Pte Ltd. With decades of experience in public policy, media, and civic leadership, Viswa guided students through thought-provoking discussions on values, communication, and the responsibilities of leadership.
His session challenged participants to think critically, ask bold questions, and explore how they can use their voices to drive meaningful change. Many students described the seminar as an eye-opening moment that reshaped how they perceived leadership and public service.
Leadership is forged not only through reflection but also through challenges that test character and teamwork. In Bali, students took on ATV rides across rugged trails and braved the rapids of the Ayung River during an exhilarating white water rafting session.
These activities, though thrilling, were more than recreational : they became living metaphors for navigating obstacles, adapting under pressure, and trusting one another.
Through these moments, students discovered that leadership often means staying calm in uncertainty and finding collective strength to move forward.
The Bali Advanced Learning Journey was more than an overseas trip; it was a life-shaping experience. Over four days, students gained:
As the program concluded, students returned home not just with memories but with clarity, purpose, and a renewed commitment to creating positive change. Several participants have already expressed interest in initiating or supporting grassroots projects inspired by their experience in Bali.
To cultivate the next generation of future philanthropists and social entrepreneurs, driven by a shared commitment to transforming lives and advancing the public good.
