Now, onto the good food. With the assistance of Yang Ming Seafood Founder Keith Kang and Cook For More founder Cassandra Xu, an immersive culinary experience was curated, an experience that involved all senses. Guests savoured the evening together, appreciating the unsung heroes — the kitchen and service staff.

Last but certainly not least, the heart of the night’s gathering - the good deeds. An MOU was held with members of the Value Train, commencing the start of the partnership.

The Value Train is a product by Media Clubroom consisting of a year long campaign with different events and initiatives that involves different stakeholders & partners each focusing on their own capabilities to support a social cause/s. It started when the team recognised that it took a village to do good together, a community of individuals committed to not just talking the talk - but more importantly, walking the talk. The Value Train is open for people who have always wanted to do something for the greater good but do not know how, what, or even when to do it, to jump on board.

The destination? To amplify the voices of communities and causes through meaningful dialogues and engagements.

"This Value Train would not have happened without the people who paved the tracks," Francis emphasized, expressing gratitude towards the partners who supported the initiative.

She Brilliance, for their amazing year in 2023. They recently celebrated their second anniversary with an impressive turnout of over 200 members and their numbers are growing, a testament to the number of people who believe in their vision.

Founders of PlayPan Gary and Yvonne were also mentioned for their efforts in the transformation of Peace Centre in 2023. With Gary and Yvonne's vision, they have turned PlayPan into more than just a platform; it's now become a movement, and transformed the space into a playground for creatives, artists, community and social engagements.

Our next partner, TriFactor, held 4 triathlons and 7 sports events in 2023, of which 3 were international. TriFactor also has a heart for charity, and their virtual run, Run for Heroes, was the biggest virtual run in Singapore with more than 80, 000 participants.

WISE, Women in Sport for Empowerment, was welcomed as our newest partner. WISE is a movement started by a core group of established women leaders who champion empowerment through sport. "Thank you Peggy and team for coming on board the train and I look forward to the dialogues at Bondfire Fridays that we can do together," Francis added

Last but not least, the team at Media Clubroom. In 2023, Media Clubroom ran 6 Bondfire Fridays, some of which moderated by Kim Underhill of She Brilliance on Gender Equity, AI, and Women Entrepreneurs, as well as Chrissie Choo who moderated topics on the “Importance of Vitality” and “Optimizing Mindset.” Media Clubroom had seen more than 500 individuals who have shared their perspectives in this space.

Some notable events mentioned that were run last year by Media Clubroom included their first Lunar New Year event, where they raise funds for Daughters of Tomorrow, as well hosting a Hari Raya celebration for 55 migrant workers, an event which the team still holds close to their hearts.

Adding on to this, Francis also took this opportunity to thank Cassandra Xu of Cook for More for generously donating her talents and heart to the event, as well as Hana School & Adrian Tan, for their laborious efforts in making and giving out handmade ice cream. In addition, he thanked the sponsor of the Hari Raya event, Osman Faiz and his family, for not just sponsoring the event but also dishing out food on the ground.

A special spotlight was given to the beneficiaries of the event - Lutheran Community Care Services (LCCS) and Sewing Mums

Media Clubroom was the venue provider for the "LCCS REALink!" event held last year highlighting their work for family restoration. Francis also thanked LCCS for the chance to work alongside each other then. "Seow Ling and Peter, we see your hearts, and the people you care for, especially for Youths and Children At Risk, something that is close to our hearts."

Our other beneficiary was Sewing Mums. Managed by Kim Underhill, Sewing Mums is committed to helping more than 25, 000 women in low-income families achieve employment. Handsewn tote bags were commissioned as door gifts, and given to every guest in attendance.

The Value Train sets the stage for a collaborative journey where every effort, no matter how small, contributes to a larger purpose. The funds raised during our Lunar New Year Celebrations mark the beginning of a commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. 

As the night drew to a close, the Value Train will continue its journey, gathering momentum from the power of collective goodwill and a promising start to a future marked by meaningful contributions and connections.