“There were days where I felt stressed, depressed and really broken down. Why was I still being labelled? Why were they still thinking of me in a negative way?

That was a real struggle for me, but I used their words as inspiration to turn over a new leaf. Whenever they said I couldn’t make it, I took it as a challenge to become a better person.” – Muru, 45

“We’re all trying in life. We’re all trying to be who we think we’re supposed to be, and in order for those recovering from addictions to reach that state of self-actualisation, people like you and I need to give them a fighting chance.”- Jayson, 39

“In the real world, there will always be underprivileged people who are struggling every day. But where ex-offenders and their children are concerned, I think there is a need for a change in how community perceives them, and I’m glad to know that we are at least having more conversations now about helping them in Singapore, as compared to many years ago.”– Jo-Anne, 36

“There’s nothing complex about how I’m going about doing it. I don’t have to be a politician or impact the world in some grand way. If I can just be a friend to somebody, especially somebody in need, that fills my heart with joy.” – Timon, 29

“Now that I’m out, my daughter and I are able to really build our relationship. Our first meeting was very weird and awkward, of course. We didn’t really talk much. I’d speak a word and she’d reply with a single word. But I’m happy that she is slowly starting to open up more.” – Normizan, 40

“We want to let these kids see the light in their situations so that they don’t focus on their parents’ problems. By linking them up with mentors who are there to provide healthy influence in their lives, hopefully these kids will be motivated to move towards a positive direction.” – Edmund, 49

“I think the greatest joy of what I do is making a positive impact on someone’s life. Education can really improve someone’s life for the better. When a person is better educated, s/he will be able to contribute meaningfully to society and pay it forward to the rest of the community, as was the case for me.” – Ruby

“You can’t expect a 10-year-old to understand the world – even at 68, I still don’t understand the world either. And I know that my relationship with a mentee might not last more than two years, but hopefully when he grows up, whatever impression I’ve had on him will help him in the future.” – Pok Zin, 68

“ISCOS is preventing ex-offenders from returning to the world of crime and helping them become useful citizens of our society. Getting a job can be difficult if you have a record. I hope the public understands their plight and supports them.” – Liang Kwang, 65

“Yes, I feel blessed right now. My husband and I are working hard to create a good life for our family. Whenever I’m tempted to do anything bad, I just look at my children’s faces and i’m reminded of what’s important. I’ve lost my son; I don’t want to lose anything else.” Norlinda, 43