(27 Feb) From Passion to Prosperity: Prototyping Satellite Creative Community Labs for Social Impact

Creativity isn't just expression, it's how we engage communities and drive social change

Last updated 30 July 2026

Event details

Date: 27 Feb 2026

Time: 5.00pm – 7.00pm

Venue: Serambi Kampong Gelam, 45 Sultan Gate, Singapore 198492

Theme: Adapting to Change I: Urban, Social, Cultural

As Singapore faces a rapidly ageing population, it is imperative to find sustainable ways to support active, connected and inclusive communities for all ages. Arts- and design-led community initiatives serve as powerful platforms that promote active participation, self-expression and wellbeing. Additionally, the arts are an effective medium for intercultural, intergenerational and inclusive learning that facilitates meaningful interactions, promoting mutual understanding, respect and cultural exchange.

Through an interactive case study sharing of NAFA's GLab initiative by industry stakeholders, participants will explore the transformative power of arts- and design-led community programmes that foster inclusive learning and engagement. Participants will also learn more about the fundamental considerations behind embarking on creative community programmes, as well as the research methodologies employed to map and evaluate impact.

Join us to be enriched with insights on conducting engaged research that advances the value of the arts and creativity for more connected and resilient communities.

Speakers

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Assoc Prof Chong Keng Hua

Keng Hua is Provost and VP (Academic) at NAFA, UAS. As a leading social architecture expert, his work spans participatory design, nature‑based placemaking, and healthy ageing. He was awarded the Public Administration Medal (Bronze) by the Singapore Government in 2024.

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Trecia Lim

Trecia Lim is the founder and principal of WeCreate Studio, a Singapore-based social enterprise that leverages architecture and design for social impact. She is also a WELL AP, certified Universal Design Consultant and permaculturist.

Young man wearing a black bucket hat with a small red label, and a beige crewneck sweatshirt, against white background.

Muhammad Raihan Syahmi Bin Abdul Hadi

Raihan recently graduated from NAFA, UAS with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Design Practice and a Best Graduate Award. With interests in woodworking and community-centric design, he is winner of the ASEAN Furniture Design Award 2025. Raihan is GLab's current project coordinator.

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Dr Hoe Su Fern

Su Fern is Principal Research Fellow directing the Cultural Policy and Evidence Lab at NAFA, UAS. She specialises in the analysis of cultural policy with three strands (i) culture-led place transformation, (ii) cultural governance and policy-making, (iii) cultural value and impact evaluation.