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Moulmein-Cairnhill

Ms Marlene Gwee

Meet Marlene Gwee, a grassroots leader whose childhood at an RC Centre inspired her to give back. She now volunteers at Tanglin CC to support families and children in need.

Last updated 16 June 2026
Three Asian women pose together indoors, one flashing a peace sign, with people and a drink fridge visible behind them.

The recipient of the PA OurCommUNITYSG prize is our very own Grassroots Leader Ms Marlene Gwee!

She shared how her experiences as a child nurtured her passion to give back to the community.

“When I was a child, there was a place at the void deck of the HDB block near my place at St'George Road. It was a place where I had built many fun and warm relationships. As I got older, I learnt that this special place was actually the Residents' Committee (RC) Centre.

I was born in a poor and broken family. As young as five years old, I had to cook my own rice to go with soya sauce when my mom was at work and mostly not home till 11pm. Every day after school, I would roam around aimlessly to play. The RC Centre brought happiness to my life; it was where I could draw, colour and sing. Through these activities, I also learnt about perseverance and how to work harder for my goals.

Lantern-making was one of my favourite activities. I practised and practised, and was extremely pleased when I came in 1st place during a lantern-making competition. It was then when I owned my first ever Barbie doll which came with a complete furniture set.

The RC Centre had given me many happy memories. I was able to learn from adults who substituted the ones missing in my childhood. Now I volunteer with Tanglin CC with the hopes to help families and children who are in need of an individual they can trust in and approach for help.”