Alumni Happenings

A Joyful Multigenerational Celebration at Chingay 2025!

Adapted from: https://www.suss.edu.sg/news-and-events/news/a-joyful-multigenerational-celebration-at-chingay-2025

Studies and the SUSS-Nunchi Marine Age Well Programme, proudly presented a vibrant 42-member contingent at Chingay 2025, celebrating SG60 with a resounding beat! Our dynamic performance, “Drum for Joy!”, showcased the unifying spirit of community that defines Singapore’s rich, multigenerational tapestry.

Our inclusive team comprised SUSS undergraduates, staff, alumni, and valued community partners from Aspire 55 and St Luke ElderCare, demonstrating the power of collaboration and shared purpose.

Caption: Rehearsal @ SUSS campus

Reflecting the vibrant food theme of Chingay 2025, our performance featured the exercise ball symbolising “Tang Yuan,” a traditional dish embodying good fortune and prosperity. This creative element added a playful touch to our energetic drumming.

The exercise drumming programme, initiated by Dr. Kelvin Tan (Head of Programme, Minor in Applied Ageing Studies, SUSS) in August 2023, has flourished, now engaging over 400 drummers across Singapore. SUSS’s collaborative research with FaithActs (Queenstown) has revealed the remarkable benefits of this activity, particularly in enhancing the physical and psychosocial well-being of older adults. It’s an accessible, easy-to-learn, and thoroughly enjoyable way for individuals of all ages to express themselves through music and movement.

“Chingay has been an extraordinary journey, filled with personal growth that extends far beyond the rehearsals and physical demands,” shared Zolene Tay, a Biomedical Engineering student and member of the SUSS Dance interest group. Experiencing the thrill of Chingay for the first time, Zolene reflected on how her involvement has empowered her to become an effective connector of intergenerational activities.

Jordan Lau Qiao Dan, a SUSS alumnus, spoke enthusiastically about the deep friendships forged during this unforgettable experience. “The camaraderie was incredible,” Jordan remarked. “It was inspiring to be part of something so imaginative and inclusive.”

Caption: Jordan and his newfound friends at the Chingay Parade

Our contingent also uncovered a wealth of hidden talents. Some members radiated joy with their infectious energy, others shone with their skills in makeup and hairstyling, while still others contributed quietly with acts of kindness or expressed their creativity through poetry.

One senior participant penned a heartfelt poem that beautifully captures our shared spirit:

May this year of the golden snake bring joy, good health and prosperity to everyone! Huat Ah!

Caption: SUSS-led contingent at Chingay Parade 2025

Written by: Jeaneve Tan, Class of 2020
Decked in green and black, you might have mistook the scene at Suntec Convention Centre for an early Christmas celebration. But surprise! It was something even more magical and meaningful—our final Unwind Saturday movie screening of the year: Wicked (Part 1).
Excitement buzzed through the air as attendees eagerly shared their memories of the Wicked musical. Many had watched the stage production and were thrilled to see how the musical’s grandeur and emotional depth would translate onto the big screen. For them, this was more than just a movie night—it was the chance to relive a beloved story in a brand-new way.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights) and produced by Marc Platt (La La Land, The Little Mermaid), Wicked brings to life the untold story of the witches of Oz. Long before Dorothy dropped in, two unlikely friends—Elphaba, the green-skinned girl misunderstood for her differences, and Glinda, the popular and seemingly perfect one—found their friendship tested by the pressures of sorcery, society, and their own dreams. The film’s exploration of loyalty, identity, and purpose struck a surprisingly powerful chord with real-world issues, reminding us that every story has multiple perspectives.
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande brought their characters to life with dazzling performances, delivering powerful songs that captivated the audience. Whether singing solo or harmonising in duets, their vocals were flawless, evoking a mix of awe, joy, and even a few tears. It was a cinematic experience that blended breathtaking visuals, heartfelt storytelling, and timeless music.
The evening was elevated by the energy and camaraderie of our alumni, who came out in full force to celebrate. Nizam, Class of 2017 (BA in Business), shared how much he enjoys attending Unwind Saturday events, calling them a perfect way to spend the weekend. “I’ve been to several screenings, and I always look forward to movie nights like these,” he said, smiling alongside his girlfriend, Hidaya. Both arrived dressed in green to embrace the theme and enjoyed mingling with fellow graduates.

Tricia, Class of 2023 (BA in Biomedical Engineering), was equally enthusiastic. A regular at SUSS events, she brought along her mum, Anna, who was beaming throughout the evening.  Tricia also commented how these events are a great way to reconnect, and hopes that the cap on guests can be increased so she can bring more of her family and friends to participate!

Joey, Class of 2009 (BA in Mathematics and Economics), agreed wholeheartedly. For her and her spouse, Eric Tang, these screenings are more than just movie dates—they’re an opportunity to reconnect with old friends, reminisce about their time at SUSS, and meet new faces in a fun, welcoming atmosphere. We seek alumni’s understanding on this as some events have limited capacity and we give priority to our alumni.
What stood out most was the incredible spirit of the attendees. Not only did they embrace the green and blacktheme wholeheartedly, some also turned up in Wicked merchandise, from T-shirts to accessories, showing their passion and excitement for the movie. Their energy was contagious, and it was heartening to see so much support for the Unwind Saturday series!
With such a spectacular end to 2024, we can’t wait to bring you even more unforgettable movie

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