Franklin Rajoo: Championing Mental Wellness for Singapore’s Youth
Every Thursday night, Franklin Rajoo, a 26-year-old social media executive, dons his black “Youth Corps Singapore” T-shirt and heads to the ‘dungeon’ along Somerset Road. This gathering spot is more than just a hangout; it’s a sanctuary for young people seeking connection and support. Rajoo’s mission? To lend an ear to those who might be struggling with school pressures, family issues, or simply need someone to share their day with.
Recognizing Signs of Distress
Rajoo shared with AsiaOne how his training with Youth Corps Singapore has equipped him to identify those in need. He notes that troubled teens often show signs of distress more actively than those who sit quietly in a corner. By observing their body language and eye contact, he can gauge if someone is open to conversation. If they hesitate to reach out, he encourages them to take a moment to reflect, assuring them that he is always available to chat later.
Creating Safe Spaces for Youth
Re:ground @ Dungeon serves as a safe haven for youth to unwind. With a library filled with board games, books, and engaging arts and crafts, it’s a vibrant space for relaxation and creativity. The Mental Well-Being Network, established in 2014, aims to empower those facing mental health challenges within the community.
Supporting Mental Health in the Community
The SG Mental Well-Being Network, under the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, has set up six “well-being circles” across Singapore. Each circle caters to the unique needs of its neighborhood. For instance, one organization in Kolam Ayer focuses on senior mental health care, while another in Punggol West trains youth to be first responders for those in need. Other groups include the Befrienders’ Network @ Zhenghua, Moulmein-Cairnhill (MoCa), and Bukit Batok Eastern Well-Being Circle.
Rajoo understands the importance of having someone to talk to, especially after facing his own challenges. He recalls a time when he didn’t achieve the results he wanted in an important exam. His friends reassured him, saying, “It’s not a big deal; you’ll get over it.” Yet, he realized that these moments can feel overwhelming, especially during tough times.
Lessons from National Service
During his National Service, Rajoo served as a platoon commander for the 9th Battalion Singapore Infantry Regiment (9 SIR), leading a 140-man platoon. He found himself often consulted by soldiers about their personal and unit-related issues. Despite the generational gap—most of his platoon members were older—he recognized that he lacked the necessary support skills to help them effectively.
His experience in NS inspired him to join Youth Corps Singapore in April 2021. After seeing a social media post about the Community Peer Supporter Programme, he reached out and signed up, hoping to make a difference in the lives of others.
A New Perspective on Mental Well-Being
Rajoo believes that initiatives like Project Re:ground can provide new perspectives for those struggling with mental health issues. He wishes such programs had existed during his own youth, as they could have made a significant impact on his well-being.
Strengthening Community Support
The SG Mental Well-Being Network aims to enhance mental health support in Singapore over the coming year. This initiative emphasizes physical, emotional, spiritual, intellectual, and relational health. With 400 volunteers and 30 partners, including the Health Promotion Board and the Happiness Initiative, these well-being circles are designed to foster community and peer support.
Alvin Tan, Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth, highlighted that these circles equip volunteers with the skills needed to support others, ultimately strengthening the community.
A Ripple of Hope
Rajoo remains optimistic that Singapore’s youth will find the help they need during difficult times. He recalls a moment at Re:ground @ Dungeon when he witnessed a young person shift from a moody expression to a more positive one. Although it was a small change, it represented a ripple of hope in the community.
Join the Movement
Re:ground @ Dungeon opens its doors to the public every Thursday from 7 PM to 9:30 PM, welcoming everyone to experience a night of exploration, play, and fun. For more information about mental health initiatives in Singapore, visit the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth website.
Together, we can create a more caring and inclusive society for all Singaporeans, ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need.