From observing others engaging in volunteering activities to stepping forward and getting himself involved in the action, Eng Seng, an Assurance Associate, gained plenty from giving his time to help those in need. As an introvert, Eng Seng discovered newfound confidence in interpersonal communications and much more.
What inspired you to volunteer with the PwC Singapore Foundation?
Back when I was living in Malaysia, I always saw so many organisations and volunteering events happening throughout the year, but I was just too shy to take the leap and get involved. When I moved to Singapore, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to step out of my comfort zone – exploring Singapore’s beautiful natural spaces, meeting like-minded people, and spending my weekends in a more meaningful way.
What truly sparked my interest was coming across PwC’s internal news bulletin about joining the PwC Singapore Foundation and volunteering with the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA of Singapore) for their ‘Y-Nature Walk – Hiking with Youth with Special Needs’. It felt like the perfect blend of everything I wanted to experience – connecting with nature, giving back to the community, and making new friends with diverse abilities along the way. That’s when I knew I had to sign up!
What personal values or experiences drive your commitment to volunteering?
My commitment to volunteering comes from a deep-rooted belief in compassion and the power of service. To me, giving my time and energy is not just about making a difference in the beneficiaries’ lives but also about learning, connecting, and growing as a person.
What did you do to prepare for the volunteer activities?
To prepare for the volunteer activities, I started by hoping for the best – literally! I prayed for good weather, a smooth and safe hike without any accidents or unexpected hiccups, and, most importantly, a compassionate mindset to serve with an open heart, free of judgement.
What is something that surprised you – either about yourself or the people you volunteered with?
Every time I volunteered, I was amazed by the fact that we hiked a full 10 kilometers over the course of 3 hours! At the start of the trail, the thought of covering such a distance always felt a bit daunting, but as we pushed on, step by step, it became so much more than just a hike. Being surrounded by the YMCA ambassadors with special needs, caregivers, and fellow volunteers kept the energy high, and by the time we completed the trail together, the overwhelming sense of accomplishment was incredibly satisfying.
What skills have you developed or enhanced through your work as a volunteer?
Being an introvert, I was initially drawn to the YMCA Weekly Nature Hike as a way to give back while enjoying the outdoors. Over time, volunteering consistently helped me build my confidence in socializing and communicating with new people. I connected with other volunteers and even PwC colleagues from different business units, which led to meaningful conversations during and after the hikes. These experiences not only helped me step out of my comfort zone but also strengthened my ability to engage with others and form new friendships.
How would you continue your volunteering journey?
Beyond my volunteering sessions with YMCA through PwC, I’ve been continuing my journey by volunteering with the Royal Rangers Outpost 22 every other Saturday. This programme focuses on character development and teaching valuable life lessons to children and youths in the Hougang Community. What I love most are the meaningful topics we explore with the youth – like mental health, cybersecurity, and even the challenges of artificial intelligence. Plus, there’s always something exciting happening, from BBQ nights and night cycling to kayaking adventures and visits to the Singapore Bird Paradise.
How do you motivate others to get involved in volunteering activities?
I motivate others to get involved in volunteering by sharing my own experiences and the joy it brings. I understand that weekends can be precious, especially for those balancing work, family, and personal commitment. But I always remind my peers that volunteering doesn’t have to be a big-time commitment; even a few hours can be incredibly fulfilling. It’s not just about giving back – it's also about gaining new perspectives, building meaningful connections, and recharging in a way that work, or rest alone can’t always provide.
