Beyond Profit: Singtel and Its Impact on Young Lives

Customers today are drawn to brands with a social conscience. By giving back to the causes they care about, brands can not only build customer loyalty but also stand out from the crowd. One such brand that stands out in Southeast Asia because of its humanitarian efforts is Singtel. 

With a combined mobile subscriber base of over 770 million, Singtel is a big name in the telecommunications industry. However, not many of us may be aware of its philanthropic contributions. In this segment of our new series #BeyondProfit, we will explore this hidden side of Singtel and its impact on society. 

So, without any further ado, let’s dive right in! 

Special Needs Education

Singtel has been a long-time supporter of education for children with special needs. The company has been working with schools from all over, offering specialized education for students with physical or mental challenges. 

Providing funds and resources to ensure children with disabilities have access to specialized education that unlocks their full potential, Singtel acts as a beacon, illuminating the path for these underprivileged students. The telecom giant recognizes the growing need for digital fluency in today's world. That’s why they have curated digital literacy programs designed to equip students with the necessary skills to navigate the online landscape with confidence.  

The company’s impact on education extends well beyond just the students. Singtel fosters a culture built around community and purpose. They actively encourage employee engagement, letting their staff volunteer and interact with students. This form of communication creates a sense of shared purpose, a human connection transcending the corporate realm. In fact, there are reports that suggest that these programs from Singtel have had a profound impact, leading to the overall development and well-being of students. 

Also, Singtel's approach is a well-rounded one, blending financial support with the tools and skills needed to thrive in the digital age. It's a testament to their commitment to not just connecting people, but empowering them to reach their full potential.

Fundraisers

Every year Singtel holds fundraisers to support its philanthropic contributions to society. One such annual fundraising event is the Singtel Charity Golf. This golf tournament brings participants together for the pleasure of a friendly, relaxing sport and a gala dinner. These participants are usually business partners and Singtel associates. 

This charity golf event is a key part of Singtel’s fundraising strategy for financially supporting vital educational programs. In 2023, the collection reached a record 1.28 million Singapore dollars, bringing the total amount raised since 2002 to 55 million Singapore dollars.

Another noteworthy event is the Singtel Carnival. Being held since 2013, this event is a major initiative that supports special education programs. Every year, the carnival puts together a fun and safe space for students where they can enjoy games, rides, and handicraft activities. 

With around 2,000 student attendees from various special education schools and close to 2,000 volunteers from Singtel, the Singtel Carnival is the largest event of its kind in Singapore. At the heart of this carnival is a sense of community that helps students develop social and networking skills. Simply put, this event is another example of Singtel's commitment to giving back to the community.

Singtel Touching Lives Fund (STLF)

Launched in 2002, the Singtel Touching Lives Fund (STLF) has been at the forefront of Singtel's philanthropic crusade. This charitable program has been mainly focused on underprivileged youth, particularly those with special needs.

Working under the National Council of Social Service, STLF has raised over 57 million Singapore dollars to this day. And all of these funds have been directed toward the development of special education (SPED) schools and their programs. Being an indispensable part of Singtel's philanthropic campaign, STLF also oversees the organization of all their fundraising events including the Singtel Carnival and Charity Golf.

There are six beneficiary SPED schools that are directly supported by STLF, APSN Chaoyang and Eden School being two of them. All of these schools offer programs dedicated to special needs, from intellectual disability to cerebral palsy. Through this collective effort, STLF helps around 1800 students annually develop the necessary skills for integrating into society and leading fulfilling lives.

This commitment to SPED schools since 2002 is a reflection of Singtel's strong belief in empowering underprivileged children. And STLF has been a guiding light throughout this noble journey. 

Recognition

You know what they say, good deeds don’t go unnoticed. Well, Singtel's charitable arm, the Singtel Touching Lives Fund (STLF), has garnered recognition for its dedication to empowering underprivileged youth, especially those with physical or mental challenges.

Among others, the telecom juggernaut was awarded the "Impact Enterprise of the Year" at the Sustainability Impact Awards 2023 for its social impact efforts.

Bottom Line

And that is a wrap of another edition of our #BeyondProfit series! For decades, Singtel has been considerably philanthropic, running programs that help children and young people with special needs. It is not something that every brand does but it is good to see one operating in a socially responsible manner. Although Singtel’s humanitarian efforts have been directed at a specific group of humans, its impact is still quite commendable and inspiring.

Hope you liked this piece! We have tons of content planned for this series and can not wait to share it with you. Until next time, stay tuned!