How YouthSpace Helped YuDe Pursue His Passion for Art

“There was a time when I wasn’t sure where I belonged. I came to realise that all it took was someone who saw my potential, encouraged my passion and helped me believe in what I could become.”

For as long as he can remember, Yu De has loved drawing. He would carry a sketchbook wherever he went, filling its pages with drawings and ideas. Art was more than a hobby. It was something he enjoyed and a way for him to express himself.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Yu De discovered YouthSpace, the youth arm of Bethesda Care Services (BCS), through an Instagram Live session. When physical activities resumed, he began visiting the YouthSpace room regularly, where he received academic support and spent time drawing.

The YouthSpace team soon recognised his passion for art and encouraged him to explore it further. They organised workshops and connected him with a graffiti mentor, giving him opportunities to experiment with different styles and develop his skills.

With the support and encouragement of the YouthSpace team, Yu De grew in confidence and continued pursuing his interest in art. His dedication eventually led to success in several art competitions.

More importantly, his passion opened the door to a new opportunity. Yu De was awarded a scholarship to study at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA).

For Yu De, the experience was about more than competitions or a scholarship. Having someone recognise his potential and encourage him to keep going gave him the confidence to take his passion seriously.

Supporting Youth Potential

At BCS, YouthSpace provides opportunities for young people to develop their interests, build confidence and discover their potential. Through youth programmes, mentoring, workshops and meaningful activities, youth workers create spaces where young people can learn, explore and grow.

For Yu De, one Instagram Live session led him to YouthSpace, where a passion for drawing found the encouragement and opportunities to grow.

His story shows what can happen when young people are given the space and support to pursue what they love.

About BCS

In 1996, Bethesda Care Services (BCS) started with a vision of reaching out and meeting the needs of the community in Bedok area. Today, we reach out and CARE for the children, youths, families and the elderly within our community by providing services and programs tailored to meet their needs.

Through our five main service departments, we CARE for individuals and families, prioritising the needs of the vulnerable in our community.

If you are keen to join BCS as a volunteer, do contact us through our online signup form.

Donate to our charity and help provide meals, food rations, bursaries and more. Your donation will help us serve the frail and needy in Singapore. Donate today and qualify for 2.5 times tax exemption on your donation.