Career Panel: Youth & Education

Synopsis

Education and youth work play a vital role in shaping the growth, development, and well-being of young people. This panel explores what it means to work with and empower the next generation, the different pathways into education and youth development, and the opportunities and challenges that come with supporting young people in a rapidly changing world.

 

Description

Join an open dialogue with professionals working across education and youth development as they share their experiences supporting young people in different settings. From classrooms and enrichment programmes to community organisations and youth services, panelists will discuss the realities of working with youths and the impact these roles can have on their lives.

 

Hear about the different career pathways available, the skills and qualities needed to work effectively with young people, and the rewards and challenges of guiding their growth and development. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of how education and youth work contribute to building stronger communities.

 

Takeaways

1. Understand the different roles within education and youth development
2. Learn about pathways into teaching, youth work, and related professions
3. Gain insight into the opportunities and challenges of working with young people
4. Explore the skills and qualities needed to support youth growth and development
5. Hear firsthand experiences from professionals in the sector

 

Who Should Attend

1. Youth between 13 and 30 who are curious about careers in education or youth development
2. Students interested in teaching, mentoring, coaching, or community work
3. Anyone passionate about supporting and empowering the next generation

 

Panelists

Jack Wong - Adjunct Senior Professor, National University of Singapore

Jack Wong is an educator, entrepreneur, and healthcare industry leader with more than 27 years of experience in the pharmaceutical, MedTech, and biotechnology sectors. 

He is the Founder of the Asia Regulatory Professionals Association (ARPA), a regional professional network with over 7,000 members dedicated to advancing regulatory education and professional development. 

Jack serves as an Adjunct Senior Lecturer at the National University of Singapore and has taught at leading universities across Asia. He is also the author of the Medical Regulatory Affairs Handbook and CEO of biotechnology company RNAscence.

 

Rauf Malachi, Senior Social Worker at Fei Yue

Rauf has dedicated the past 13 years to youth outreach work, beginning his journey in street outreach with Youth Go. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with both street-involved and socially withdrawn youths, supporting them through challenges and helping them reconnect with opportunities and support networks. 

Currently, he oversees the Hidden Youth Outreach Team, leading efforts to engage and empower hidden youths. Driven by a strong belief in every young person's potential, Rauf remains committed to helping youths successfully reintegrate into society and build meaningful, fulfilling lives.

 

Siti Wajihah Zaran - Educator

Siti fell in love with Geography as a subject in secondary school and then proceeded to make it almost her entire personality. She is one of those annoying people who believe that studying the Humanities will save humanity.

Having been in teaching for many years, she believes in reminding kids that their self-worth is never tied to their grades. In the era of GenAI and LLMs, education is more important than ever, and helping people navigate this world in a meaningful way is still a human being’s job.