People Specialist By Day, Prolific Fundraiser By Night
By day, Leonard Sim clocks long hours at work. By night, the 27-year-old is the driving force behind a campaign raising awareness and funds for Singapore Children’s Society.
Project Dum Spiro Spero 2020, Latin for ‘while I breathe, I hope’, was inspired by Leonard’s belief that children should never stop dreaming, and that they should have the courage to pursue their dreams regardless of their socioeconomic background. In Singapore Children’s Society, he found a trusted and reputable organisation whose work matched his beliefs.
This was in 2019. And what started out as a mission to raise $200 for children in need during Chinese New Year last year, has raised more than $300,000 in the two years since.
But his mission is far from over.
Leonard at Walk for Our Children 2019, one of Children’s Society’s signature fundraising events
Driven by a never-say-die spirit and the belief that if he can do more, he should, Leonard continues to reach out to potential donors on platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, sharing what the Society does and how their support can make an impact.
“We often worry about what our children will become in the future, yet we forget that they are already someone today. These children will grow up to be what we believe about them today, and not what we predict for them tomorrow. Now is always the time to take action,” he says.
It hasn’t all been smooth sailing for Leonard. His messages do not always receive positive responses – or any response at all. But he continues to press on, reaching out to more potential donors each night. He jokingly likens himself to a cockroach – one that can be stepped on many times but will not die.
Last year, Leonard was conferred the Singapore Children’s Society Silver Award 2020 for his active fundraising efforts for the Society.
“We are truly blessed to have steadfast supporters like Leonard,” says Ms Joyce Teng, Director of Community Engagement & Partnerships.
“What Singapore Children’s Society has achieved today is in no small part due to the incredible dedication of our supporters. Individuals like Leonard have set aside time beyond their busy day jobs and other commitments to actively fundraise for the Society because they believe in our mission and the impact of our work.”