Themed “Powers Uncovered”, APSN Charity Dinner 2019 was a night of unveiling the talents and abilities of beneficiaries with mild intellectual disability who excel in their respective fields of academic, artistic and sport pursuits. Traits of tenacity and diligence recurred through the stories shared.

The event is part of the integrated resort’s Sands for Singapore Charity Festival 2019. Co-presented by Marina Bay Sands, APSN Charity Dinner 2019 was graced by Ms Sim Ann, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Communications and Information & Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, and attended by guests comprising corporate partners, donors and APSN beneficiaries across its four Schools and adult-training Centre.

In support of the special needs sector, SMS Ms Sim Ann said, “Every one of us can play a part in making persons with special needs and other vulnerable groups around us feel more included and valued, by treating them with dignity and respect as well as recognising their talents, skills and resilience.”

She added that companies and potential employers can also provide advice and training programmes which will better prepare beneficiaries for the changing job market.

More employers are now learning about the abilities of persons with special needs. “Usually when people think of persons with special needs, they think about what they can’t do, but we want to focus on what they can do – what is their potential, what are their powers,” emphasised APSN President Mr Tan Cheen Chong.

All proceeds generated from the event will be channelled towards education and training programmes to continue empowering and preparing APSN’s beneficiaries for open employment, all year round.