The OSG Story
OSG Youth Alliance: Empowering Futures, Bridging Cultures
Inception:
Nurturing a Vision in
Beijing's Chilled Atmosphere
The seeds of OSG Youth Alliance were sown in a Beijing cafe during the freezing winter of 2017. In the company of visionaries Billy Lim and Sheu Ay Shin—both seasoned individuals with decades of experience outside our homeland Singapore—we engaged in profound discussions about the surging economic influence of China and its potential impact on Singapore.
Our conversations pivoted toward a critical question: How could Singapore remain relevant in an era dominated by China's economic prowess, and how could we equip our young changemakers for a China-centric Asia?
Recognizing the wealth of experience among us with deep ties to China, we felt responsible for sharing our knowledge and contacts with the next generation of Singaporeans.
With its bilingualism, robust education system, cultural rootedness, and commitment to integrity and cross-cultural communication, we firmly believe that Singapore holds a unique advantage to thrive in the evolving geopolitical landscape.
The Educational Initiative:
A Journey Commences in
2017
With support from Billy and other Singaporeans in Beijing, we attracted over 500 participants to eight monthly programs that year. From keynote speakers to panel discussions and case competitions, the programs catered mainly to Singapore expatriates and students in Beijing.
OSG shifted focus to support existing youth programs while creating opportunities for youths to actively engage as organizers and volunteers. We proudly supported initiatives like Sustainable Sustainability Startathon, Hacking for the Brave, and Singapore-China Business Hackathon. Furthermore, we launched the annual 1000-book Charity Donation Drive and a 200-km Charity Run, showcasing our commitment to social impact.
Evolving Approaches:
2018-2019
Navigating the Pandemic:
2020-2022
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, OSG remained resolute in engaging with youth from Singapore and China. The The Young Founders’ Series and Bonding Beyond Borders emerged as platforms for impactful discussions, fostering collaboration among youths tackling critical issues. Ending 2022 with a Makeathon, we proved that innovation and cross-cultural teamwork could thrive even in challenging times.
We took in organizing the ASEAN-China-India Youth Leadership Summit with an eight-month runway paid off tremendously. With the collective efforts of the OSG team, Resolute Communications, Country Partners, and numerous sponsors, the Summit emerged as the gold standard youth program of the year, with 5,700 ACI youth participants, 300 ACI youths at the Summit, and overwhelming positive reviews.
Years of Expansion and Triumph
2023-2024