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I was very stressed by the thought of trying out for NDP. I felt that I had too many after-school activities, and I was worried that I couldn’t do the foot drills well as some moves were new to me, such as marching while holding an umbrella upright!

I was not confident that I could do it but the older Sister Guides in my school convinced me that it was an opportunity I should not miss. Speaking to them, I realised that they weren’t able to join last year due to COVID-19, and that made me feel like I had to go to NDP to represent the school and Girl Guides to make them proud.

We have been training for the past 9 weeks, and everyone in the contingent, especially the Young Adult Leaders, have been really understanding and patient with me. Reflecting back, I feel that NDP was a place where I learned to be serious and have fun at the same time. I have grown to feel comfortable with the contingent, and I feel very confident in overcoming the challenges ahead. NDP has been an enjoyable escape from the hustle and bustle of activities.

Other Girl Guides from other schools in the contingent have taught me so many new things and I have made friends with them without feeling awkward. I appreciate all the time I have spent with them as they have shaped me into a better person and motivated me to last through these last few weeks.

In the beginning, I didn’t really have any close friends in the contingent as I didn’t know anyone, and was a bit awkward with those other people around me. However, as time went by, I got closer to my juniors and made so many new friends along the way. I feel really happy that I have found a close friend in Sherryn, as she made me realise many things about myself, and also helped me to spot any mistakes in my foot drills. She has helped me to become more outgoing and to be more confident with her encouraging words.

NDP made me realise that Girl Guides as an organisation is one where all are really kind and loving towards all Guides. I feel really blessed to have such kind and understanding Young Adult Leaders.

I am very proud of Singapore for all the progress and achievements we have been blessed with and I wish Singapore a very prosperous year ahead. I would like to thank Changkat Changi Girl Guides for giving me this golden opportunity to participate in NDP 2023 as a Company Leader.

Karyn Amani
Changkat Changi Secondary School

When I first decided to participate in NDP 2023, I had mixed emotions. My perception of NDP was shaped by stories from my seniors who described it as a physically and mentally challenging experience. However, I also heard tales of camaraderie and the immense pride that came with being part of such a significant event. Despite some hesitation, I seized the opportunity, and signed up for it anyway.

Since joining NDP, the initial worries and uncertainties have faded away, replaced by a profound sense of fulfilment. Despite the sacrifices made during the June holiday, I have come to realise that the personal growth and the memories forged during this journey are truly worth every moment of effort and determination.

I learned the importance of patience, resilience, and optimism, as the training progressed. The challenges I faced only strengthened my resolve, pushing me to exceed my own limitations. There were moments when I felt overwhelmed and on the brink of giving up, but it was precisely during those times that I discovered my inner strength and determination to keep going. The journey has made me more confident in my abilities and has shown me the power of perseverance.

Alongside personal growth, I have had the privilege of forging deep friendships. Throughout the training sessions, I had the opportunity to interact with fellow participants from different schools. Together, we navigated through the joys and challenges of this shared experience. These newfound friendships have enriched my journey, fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity that will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Participating in NDP has also reinforced my positive views of the Girl Guides organization. The values of teamwork, discipline, and dedication that Girl Guides instils in us were instrumental in my journey. The organisation has provided a supportive environment and a platform for personal growth, empowering young individuals like myself to make a difference.

As I reflect upon my journey, I am filled with gratitude for my family’s unwavering support throughout this endeavour. Their encouragement and belief in me kept me motivated during the most challenging of times. Their presence in the stands during the actual event will be a beacon of pride, reminding me of the significance of this momentous occasion.

One of my birthday wishes for Singapore is that it continues to foster unity, resilience, and progress. May we always strive towards a society that values diversity, empathy, and sustainability, ensuring a bright and promising future for all Singaporeans.

Among the countless memories created, one stands out as my “core memory” from NDP. I was deeply honoured to be elected by my NDP trainees to receive the Star Award, which acknowledges outstanding individuals who have made a significant impact during their respective training sessions, at our very first training session. It was a humbling experience to be recognized and appreciated for the effort I had put in, igniting a fire within me to continue working hard and to make a positive difference to those around me.

As the training sessions draw to a close, I am filled with relief, knowing that the momentous day is approaching. However, I am determined to treasure every remaining moment of this unforgettable journey. NDP 2023 has taught me unforgettable lessons, allowed me to forge everlasting friendships, and deepened my love and pride for Singapore.

I am immensely grateful for this opportunity, and I am eagerly looking forward to contributing my heartfelt dedication to making NDP 2023 a celebration of unity, resilience, and joy.

Putri Delisha Binte Abdullah
Loyang View Secondary School