An unconditional tenacity to give, with a charitable heart to serve

Three years ago, Gerald Oh Jia Jie faced a life-altering tragedy during what was meant to be a joyous first family vacation in Switzerland. He and his sister had diligently saved up for over two years to make this trip possible. However, the dream vacation turned into a nightmare when they lost their father. This devastating event not only affected Gerald but also plunged the family into financial hardship. Amidst the overwhelming grief and turmoil, Gerald found the strength to stay resilient, supporting his family through their darkest times.

"If I crash, that's it. Everyone's going to crash together," reflects the second-year hospitality business student.

The youngest in his family, Gerald suddenly found himself in unfamiliar territory, having to take charge of everything - from managing a $200,000 hospital bill to handling repatriation and funeral arrangements. His elder sister had lost her job, and his mother was suffering from a brain tumour. Despite the crushing weight of these responsibilities and the profound sadness that enveloped him, Gerald pressed on. His determination was unwavering, even attending the SIT admission interview during the funeral wake.

A helping hand in difficult times

With no household income, as his father was the sole breadwinner, and no insurance coverage, Gerald took on multiple part-time jobs to support his education and family. Just as they were beginning to recover from his father’s death, his grandmother, who lived with them, passed away last year.  

During these difficult times, the Higher Education Community Bursary from the Ministry of Education and the donor-supported Wilmar Bursary at SIT provided him with much-needed financial assistance, serving as a lifeline. Currently, Gerald is a recipient of the Ngee Ann Kongsi Scholarship, which continues to support him in his academic journey. 

"The bursaries and scholarship helped cover my costs. I can now manage better and have reduced my part-time jobs to just one with an event management company," says Gerald. 

He has learnt to live within his means and control expenses. With his sister finding employment recently, their situation is improving. 

Grounded and tenacious

Beneath Gerald’s affable exterior lies a tenacious spirit. His resilience may stem from his upbringing, as he grew up watching his parents dedicate themselves to grassroots volunteer work. From a young age, he was exposed to people from all walks of life and taught to appreciate what he had while helping those in need.

"I was raised to give without expecting in return," says Gerald, whose passion lies in organising any charity events.

At just 11 years old, Gerald started a volunteer group with two friends to organise community events. This group – now known as the Geylang Serai Community Emergency and Engagement Youth Team – quickly grew to 200 members and was even nominated for the Prime Minister Community Initiative Award. In 2014, he became the youngest recipient of the Goh Chok Tong NextGen Outstanding Student Leader Award.

Today, he remains an active volunteer with the Geylang Serai Community Emergency and Engagement Committee, and the Geylang Serai Youth Network, rendering his services to the People’s Association (PA) since 2012.

"My parents encouraged my sister and me to volunteer at grassroots events, allowing us to spend time together as a family while giving back to the community," shares Gerald. "I find fulfilment in knowing that I've made a difference."

From small-scale block parties to large-scale events like SGSecure and Hari Raya Bazaar, Gerald has found purpose in working with organisations like the People’s Association (PA), Kwong Wai Shiu Hospital and Xin Yuan Community Care. These experiences have fuelled his desire to pursue a career in events management.

Committed to serve

Gerald thrives on the energy and sense of purpose that comes with organising events. As President of the Hospitality Business Student Management Committee, he spearheaded a Parents’ Day event for 150 elderly from Xin Yuan Community Care. Within just two weeks, he and his team rallied 200 volunteers, including students from three other universities, secured eight sponsors, and even engaged Minister of Transport Mr Chee Hong Tat to grace the occasion.

"Once the passion kicks in, you don't feel the tiredness," he laughs, adding that his team laid flat out on the floor after the event, exhausted.

Gerald never tires of learning new skills. He constantly upgrades himself, ensuring that he is always prepared to serve. Over the years, he has completed nearly 30 courses, such as SMRT Major Breakdown training, community vigilance workshops, community emergency preparedness programmes and first aid skills. His knowledge has proven invaluable on multiple occasions where he saved lives, even earning him the title of Most Emergency Prepared Citizen.

His hospitality business studies have also further deepened his understanding of the industry and introduced him to new opportunities and experiences. A recent overseas immersion programme in Germany allowed him to collaborate with industry leaders like STIHL and TRUMPF while witnessing groundbreaking innovations at Siemens. After graduation, he hopes to apply his skills to benefit the community, whether through PA or non-profit organisations like Xin Yuan Community Care.  

Living life fully

Gerald’s late father's dedication to community service continues to inspire him and shape his path.

“To live fully and cherish every moment, to experience everything and anything – that’s my motto in life,” he says.

In May, Gerald will embark on yet another exciting adventure: an eight-month Overseas Integrated Work Study Programme (OIWSP) stint at the happiest place on earth – Disneyland Hong Kong – where he will gain hands-on experience in theme park operations.

All the best, Gerald!