Photo credits: The Straits Times; ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN
SMU student Shira Ong worked through her time at polytechnic and first two years at SMU to support herself. After applying for over 20 scholarships, she clinched the bond-free Lim Kim San Memorial Scholarship in 2025, easing her financial burden and freeing her to focus on community work. While juggling school and work, Shira found joy in participating in SMU KIN, a student-led community service project mentoring underprivileged schoolchildren.
Read all about her journey here.