What better way to learn about another country's culture than to make friends from different communities? Year 5 students Glenn Paul Jun Jie and Woon Rae had the opportunity to do just that at the STEP Sunburst Youth Camp held from 1 - 7 December 2019! A key programme under the STEP Endowment managed by Temasek Foundation, STEP Sunburst Youth Camp is a five-day programme that brings together more than 150 youths across Asia to Singapore.

Along with youth leaders from other schools in Singapore, Glenn and Rae brought their peers from other countries around the island and shared about Singapore's culture and heritage through a mix of cultural and social activities, including batik painting, adventure challenges, heritage walks, and more. Through the week of engagement and interaction, they learned about the rich and unique cultures of other countries, formed friendships, and developed a better understanding of different perspectives.

Read about their experience below!

'As a Singaporean, being from the host country, I went, “This is Char Kway Teow, it is quite a popular local dish in Singapore,' and instantly my group of friends from Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, and Malaysia all chimed in and said they had that in their country too. We then spent the entire dinner (friendly) arguing about where Char Kway Teow originated from, and which country has the best Char Kway Teow as we compared how (the dish) differed country to country. I realised how similar Asian cultures are and the similarities we have - food, culture and cultural mindset.'
- Glenn Paul Jun Jie (Year 5, Theatre), on a memorable conversation when Char Kway Teow (stir-fried rice noodle strips) was served for dinner

'Throughout the whole week, I realised how different every single country was and how they each have their own rich and unique culture. As a host, my pride and appreciation for Singapore were also reinforced as I brought the participants around the country. I was able to look at Singapore through the eyes of a foreigner and appreciate how beautiful and special Singapore can be. Having this opportunity to make new friends and learn about their culture has truly been unforgettable. I am extremely grateful to have been given this chance.'
- Woon Rae (Year 5, Film)