A Granddaughter’s Dream to Make Her Family Proud

For as long as she can remember, Singapore has been home to Winnie. Now at 19, she is pursuing a Higher Nitec in Automotive Technology, determined to build a stable future for herself and her elderly grandparents who raised her. Her Singaporean step-grandfather, 84, still works part-time as a cleaner to keep the household afloat, while her grandmother, 81, relies on a Long-Term Visit Pass to stay in Singapore.

“My grandparents have taken care of me all my life. My grandfather is getting older as well,” Winnie shares. “All I want is to support them financially and make them proud.”

Winnie’s parents, who are Thai, divorced when she was young. Having grown up entirely in Singapore with her grandparents, Winnie considers Singapore as her home. She feels most connected here, where her friends and memories have always been.

Fighting to Stay in School

Winnie began her Higher Nitec studies in April 2025. After appealing to the Ministry of Education, Winnie successfully secured a fee reduction to 50% of the permanent-resident rate. This is a significant relief that makes her dream of completing her studies a little more achievable. However, it is still a heavy load for a family surviving on a single part-time income. Her course fees now amount to $2,852.43 per term, and with four terms in total, the cost quickly adds up.

Winnie has even applied for Singapore citizenship thrice, but each application was rejected without explanation.

Despite the challenges, Winnie’s spirit remains strong. Her school’s teachers have described her as diligent and well-liked: “She demonstrates a positive attitude toward learning and maintains an excellent attendance record, averaging 97% across her modules.”

How Can You Help?

Winnie dreams of completing her education and continuing to build her life here. Ray of Hope is raising $10,934.31 to support Winnie. The funds raised will go directly toward her school fees so that she can continue her studies without interruption.

With your support, Winnie can stay in school, graduate, and one day fulfill her promise to her grandparents which is to care for them, just as they have lovingly cared for her all these years.

 *The campaign goal includes a 1.8% payment processing fee.