Children living in public rental housing often grow up struggling with feelings of stigma, which can affect their potential. And 60 Lights, One Future aims to build a brighter future for these youths through the Singapore Red Cross Young Hearts programme.
By supporting them through Education (such as free tuition and learning resources), Enrichment (programmes in areas such as digital literacy), and Excursions (visits to places of interest), Young Hearts seeks to nurture their holistic development and enable them to grow into confident and socially conscious adults.
For this purpose, 60 Lights, One Future brought together 60 personalities (some with their families) and organisations last November. Each “Light” committed to raising $6,000, with all proceeds supporting a Young Heart beneficiary.
Tan Jian Yong, Managing Director, Happy Fish Swim School; Renee Lim, Co-founder, Lemonfridge Studio; and Hadassah Lau, Founder, Hadasity, reveal why they came onboard and why giving matters to their work.
Why was it important for you and your team to contribute to 60 Lights, One Future?
Tan Jian Yong [TJY]: We work with kids every day—so helping underprivileged children through the Red Cross is the most natural thing we can do, and we know we can raise our $6,000 fast by rallying our families.
Renee Lim [RL]: As a mom, I’ve become especially sensitive to the challenges that children face when they grow up without access to the same opportunities or support. When I heard about 60 Lights, One Future, I immediately felt it aligned with Lemonfridge’s values to create spaces, communities, and moments that bring light into people’s lives. Our team has always believed that design isn’t just about physical spaces; it’s about shaping environments where people can thrive. Being part of this initiative was our way of extending that spirit beyond interiors to help little ones build brighter futures.
Hadassah Lau [HL]: Light is at the heart of everything I do. I believe that creativity and purpose can become vessels of hope, and this campaign reflects that beautifully. To me, giving through art and fashion is a way of turning beauty into blessing—using what’s in my hands to uplift others. Being part of 60 Lights, One Future allows me to pass on that light and remind others that hope is something we can all create together.
The Singapore Red Cross Young Hearts programme supports children from neglected environments and who live in public rental housing. What about this programme are you most passionate about?
TJY: Education, because it multiplies every dollar into life-long skills and choices.
RL: Education and mentorship speak to me the most. I believe curiosity and encouragement can completely change a child’s world. Many underprivileged children don’t lack talent or intelligence, but rather exposure and opportunities. Additionally, having good role models and mentors can open their eyes to what’s possible and help them build confidence to dream beyond their circumstances. Every child deserves to see examples of kindness, integrity, and resilience. These are lessons you don’t find in textbooks, yet shape who we become. Through programmes like this, I hope more children can feel guided, inspired, and seen. When a child is supported, their future begins to take shape in ways that last a lifetime.
HL: I’m most drawn to the area of enrichment and mentorship through creativity. When a child learns to create—whether through art, words, or imagination—they start to see life differently. Creativity builds confidence and gives them a sense of identity and purpose. I believe that when a child is encouraged to dream, they discover their light, and that light can guide them for years to come.
What long-term impact do you hope your contribution brings?
TJY: Kids build healthier habits, show up for school ready, and stay connected to positive role models. That’s how small donations translate to better attendance and steady progress.
RL: I want to help nurture a generation of confident, kind, and creative children, who grow up knowing that their circumstances do not define their worth. If even one child feels seen, supported, and inspired to dream bigger, this initiative’s impact will carry far beyond what we can measure today.
HL: I hope it plants a seed of hope that stays with each child long after this campaign. I want them to know that they are seen, loved, and capable of beautiful things—no matter where they start in life. If even one child grows up believing they can make a difference because someone once believed in them, then that’s light multiplied.
As a child, what challenges did you have to overcome? How did that inspire you to give?
TJY: I used to struggle with bullies. I felt lonely and tried hard to fit in, which crushed my confidence. Growing into leadership showed me I could create the kind of support I didn’t have. So I’m raising funds with 60 Lights to help kids feel safe, seen, and ready to learn.
RL: I grew up understanding that not everything comes easy and that sometimes you have to create your own path. I didn’t have mentors early on; I learned through observation, mistakes, and persistence. That’s why I care so deeply about mentorship now. I want children who come from challenging backgrounds to know that there are people rooting for them, people who will show up.
HL: I grew up in a family that struggled financially, and independence came early for me. From the age of 16, I worked while studying and helped out at home. I didn’t have access to enrichment classes or the chance to explore art and fashion—things I always dreamed of. Later in life, my husband’s support allowed me to pursue those dreams and become the artist and designer I am today. That grace changed my life. It’s why this cause touches me so deeply—I see myself in these children and want to give them the same love and opportunity I received.
What is the community you seek to build, and why is helping underprivileged youths crucial to this work?
TJY: We’re building a warm, family community around care, safety, and confidence. Helping underprivileged youths is crucial because closing basic gaps (such as food, support, and access) lets them show up, learn well, and thrive with everyone else.
RL: At Lemonfridge, we envision a community built on collaboration, empathy, and growth. Whether it’s among our team or the wider public, we want to nurture a culture where people lift one another up. Helping underprivileged youths is part of that vision because communities are only as strong as the people we empower. When young people are given a fair start, the ripple effect benefits everyone.
HL: I want to build a community of people, especially women, who live with courage, creativity, and light. A place where we lift each other up, share stories, and use what we’ve been given to make a difference. Helping underprivileged youths is part of that vision. When we invest in the next generation, we break cycles and bring light into places that need it most. That’s how a community truly shines.
Finally, how does giving back influence your company culture?
TJY: It turns our team into doers: set a goal, fill the events, donate, report. That rhythm builds pride, trust, and a habit of serving families and the wider community.
RL: Giving back has always been part of our DNA. We’ve organised food donation drives during Christmas and partnered with the Food Bank. These efforts remind us that design and success mean little without heart. It’s not just about beautiful spaces; it’s about creating a world where beauty and kindness co-exist. Every act of giving deepens our connection with one another and keeps us grounded in purpose.
HL: Giving has always been a part of who I am. I’m drawn to causes that speak of compassion and bring light into places that feel forgotten. For me, giving isn’t just about money; it’s about using what I’ve been given to lift others up. Whether it’s through creativity, encouragement, or simply showing up with love, I believe in giving life where hope feels lost. Each time I give, I’m reminded of how much grace I’ve received myself—and that light was never meant to be kept, but shared.
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