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Frequently Asked Questions

F.A.Qs

SKILLS is open to adults 18 and above from low-income or employment-vulnerable households in Singapore or Malaysia. You don’t need qualifications, a work history, or prior experience with training programmes. If you’re genuinely ready to commit and work toward a better future, you’re eligible to apply.

KLAP is the starting point for everyone. It gives you the foundation that makes everything else more effective. DSP is open to the public and runs as a separate event series. TIP becomes available once you’re enrolled in a SKILLS programme. Most participants experience all three, but you begin where you are with KLAP.

All core SKILLS programmes are free for eligible participants. DSP sessions are free for enrolled SKILLS participants and ticketed for the general public. There are no hidden costs or fees for anyone who has been accepted into the programme.

You don’t need to decide before you start. KLAP is specifically designed to help you work that out. Over six months, your mentor works with you to understand your strengths, goals, and circumstances and helps you identify the pathway that fits. You’re not making this decision alone.

Most programmes stop at information. SKILLS goes further with structured follow-through, one-on-one coaching, community support throughout, and a 90-day stabilisation phase for those moving into employment. The difference isn’t just what we teach. It’s the sustained support around you as you apply it.

F.A.Qs

KLAP runs twice a week over six months. Sessions are designed around the schedules of working adults and caregivers the commitment is real, but it’s structured and manageable. If you can attend twice a week and stay engaged, you can complete KLAP.

Life happens, and we understand that. Missing the occasional session won’t remove you from the programme but consistent attendance matters. The modules build on each other, and your peers and coach are part of what makes the learning stick. Attendance expectations are shared clearly when you join.

No. That decision is made during KLAP, not before. Module 4 ‘Pathway Preparation’ is specifically designed to help you assess your goals, strengths, and readiness with your coach’s guidance. You’ll make that decision with the full picture in front of you, not before you’ve even begun.

There is no catch. KLAP is fully funded for eligible participants who are adults 18 and above from low-income or employment-vulnerable households in Singapore or Malaysia. SKILLS is supported by sponsors, grants, and community partners who want this kind of support to reach the people who need it most. You apply, you’re assessed for eligibility, and if accepted, there is no cost to you.

Visit the Get Started page and submit your details. The team will follow up to understand your situation and confirm eligibility. Most people hear back within a few days. Cohort intake depends on current availability, so the sooner you apply, the sooner we can confirm your place.

F.A.Qs

Ticket prices vary by session and are announced when each event opens. DSP is kept intentionally accessible for the public and completely free for enrolled SKILLS participants. Register your interest on this page to be the first notified when the next session is announced and seats open.

DSP runs as a curated series, not on a fixed weekly or monthly schedule. Sessions are confirmed and announced as speakers are selected. The focus is on quality and relevance over volume. Register your interest to stay informed when the next session is confirmed.

Yes. DSP is open to the general public. You don’t need to be enrolled in any SKILLS programme to attend. Tickets are available for anyone who wants to learn from the speakers and engage with the community. Seats are kept limited per session to preserve the quality and intimacy of the conversation.

Speakers are chosen for authenticity, credibility, and relevance, not just their title or profile. We look for people with a real story to tell who are willing to share it honestly, including the setbacks and turning points. Nominations are welcome from participants, partners, and the general public. Use the nomination form on this page if you know someone whose journey deserves a stage.

This is decided on a session-by-session basis in agreement with the speaker. Some sessions may be shared in part through SKILLS’ channels but the live Q&A and the full experience are only available to those in the room. That’s intentional. The intimacy of a DSP session is what makes it different from watching a talk online.

F.A.Qs

Yes. TIP is exclusively for enrolled SKILLS participants, whether you’re currently in KLAP or another SKILLS programme. It’s not a standalone programme you can join independently. If you’re not yet enrolled, start with KLAP and TIP becomes part of your journey from there.

Public speaking classes are built around performance. You prepare, deliver, and get assessed. TIP is built around safety and gradual growth. There are no speeches, no evaluations, and no pressure to perform. It’s structured peer conversation in small groups, designed specifically for people who find speaking up difficult. The goal isn’t polish. It’s confidence. That’s a very different thing.”,

TIP was designed specifically for you. Sessions start from where you actually are not from where someone thinks you should be. Guided topics, small groups, and peer encouragement mean you never have to figure out what to say from nothing. Many participants who describe themselves as ‘too quiet’ find TIP is the first environment where they’ve ever felt comfortable speaking. You don’t need to feel ready. You just need to show up.

TIP runs as a regular series of small-group sessions throughout your enrolment in SKILLS. The specific schedule and duration are confirmed when you join. The format stays consistent – small group, guided discussion, peer support, so you always know what to expect before you walk in.

Yes. TIP is an internal community exclusively for enrolled SKILLS participants. What’s shared in the room stays in the room. The entire environment is built on trust and mutual encouragement. That’s what makes it work. You will not be quoted, assessed, or shared publicly without your knowledge and consent.

F.A.Qs

No. You need genuine experience in your area and a desire to share it. We match every volunteer to a role that fits their background, not the other way around.

The minimum is 2–4 hours a month. Regular volunteers typically give 4–8 hours. Commitment levels can be adjusted as your schedule changes.

Yes. Most roles such as mentoring, coaching, content, and admin can be done fully online. Some event-based roles require in-person presence in Singapore or Malaysia.

You’ll have a dedicated SKILLS contact throughout, access to onboarding materials, and regular programme updates. You won’t be left to figure it out alone.

Yes. Volunteers receive regular updates on programme outcomes, participant progress, and overall impact data. Your hours translate into measurable change and we’ll show you how.

F.A.Qs

SKILLS offers a range of sponsorship opportunities, including programme sponsorships, employability initiatives, skills development workshops, community outreach activities, career fairs, mentoring programmes, and special events. We can also discuss customised sponsorship packages that align with your organisation’s CSR, ESG, workforce development, or community engagement objectives.

Yes. Sponsors may choose to support specific programmes, beneficiary groups, skills pathways, employability initiatives, or community projects that align with their corporate values and impact goals. Our team will work with you to identify the most suitable sponsorship opportunity.

Sponsors may receive recognition through event materials, programme reports, website acknowledgements, social media features, publicity materials, speaking opportunities, exhibition space, or other agreed sponsorship benefits. Recognition arrangements will be clearly outlined in the sponsorship agreement.

Sponsorship funds are used to support programme delivery, learning resources, participant development, community initiatives, operational execution, outreach activities, and impact measurement. SKILLS is committed to ensuring sponsorship support contributes meaningfully towards programme outcomes and community impact.

Yes. Depending on the sponsorship arrangement, sponsors may receive programme updates, participation statistics, impact summaries, testimonials, event reports, or outcome-based reporting to help demonstrate the value and impact of their sponsorship support.

Simply contact our team through the sponsorship enquiry form. We will arrange a discussion to understand your objectives, recommend suitable sponsorship opportunities, and develop a sponsorship package that creates meaningful value for both your organisation and the communities we serve.

Yes. SKILLS welcomes suitable in-kind sponsorships such as venue support, training facilities, technology solutions, software licences, learning materials, professional services, equipment, marketing support, refreshments, transportation, or other resources that help strengthen programme delivery and participant outcomes.

 
 

Dee Deaty

Dr. Dee Deaty Duriati (h.c.) is an entrepreneur, wellness advocate, educator, and community leader whose work reflects a lifelong passion for personal development, communication, and empowering others to reach their full potential. As the Founder of DbodynMind and creator of Maven Touch by Dr. Dee Duriati, she has dedicated her career to promoting holistic well-being, confidence, and lifelong learning. Her contributions to entrepreneurship and community development were recognised with the SMCCI Honorary Entrepreneur Award 2016.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Dee continued to champion education and skills development by serving as an Assessor at Allspice Culinary Institute and supporting the MSGA Singapore Hub through webinars, eBook initiatives, AI literacy programmes, and learning opportunities for seniors. Her commitment to accessible education reflects her belief that learning should remain a lifelong journey for people of all ages.

An active member of the Toastmasters community, Dr. Dee currently serves as Public Relations Manager for Division P (District 80) and Vice President Membership of Awesome Toastmasters Club. She also contributes to the entrepreneurial ecosystem as Vice President, Sponsorship for iKonSG Women Entrepreneurs and Executive Director of DSue.

As Vice President, Programmes & Outcomes at SKILLS Singapore, Dr. Dee is dedicated to developing impactful programmes that promote lifelong learning, leadership, communication excellence, healthy ageing, and community empowerment, helping individuals build the confidence and skills needed to create better futures.

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Riduwan Suparman

Riduwan Suparman is an educator, and community advocate with over 20 years of leadership experience spanning Information Technology, Education, and Community Development. Throughout his career, he has led digital transformation initiatives, built high-performing teams, and championed lifelong learning as a pathway to personal and social advancement.

As President of SKILLS Singapore, Riduwan is committed to the organisation’s mission of empowering lives through knowledge and lifelong learning. He believes that access to education and skills development should not be determined by one’s circumstances, and that knowledge remains one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle of poverty, improving employability, and creating sustainable opportunities for underprivileged individuals and families.

Beyond SKILLS Singapore, Riduwan is an active leadership practitioner who has contributed extensively to professional development, adult learning, and community leadership initiatives. He is passionate about helping individuals discover their potential and believes that meaningful change begins when people are empowered with the knowledge, confidence, and opportunities to succeed.

His academic qualifications reflect his commitment to continuous learning and professional excellence:

– Doctorate of Education (Candidate), UCAM University, Spain
– Master of Education, Monash University, Australia
– Master of Business Information Technology, University of Portsmouth, United Kingdom
– Diploma in Adult and Continuing Education (DACE), Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS)

Guided by the belief that learning should never stop, Riduwan continues to champion education as a force for social mobility, economic resilience, and community transformation.

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Wardah Md salam

Wardah Mohamed Salam is an entrepreneur, educator, wellness practitioner, and community advocate with over 15 years of international experience across the Food & Beverage and Hospitality industry in Australia, Japan, Singapore, and New York. Her career reflects a strong commitment to personal growth, resilience, and empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Drawing from her experience as a single mother raising a child with ADHD, Wardah transitioned into childcare and education during the COVID-19 pandemic, specialising in supporting children on the ADHD and autism spectrum while incorporating Montessori principles into early childhood development. Her work in education reinforced her belief in the transformative power of learning, support, and opportunity.

Wardah is also the Founder of Moxy Rosy Organic Spa, where she promotes holistic wellness and self-care as foundations for confidence, personal development, and overall well-being.

As Vice President, Partnerships & Ecosystems at SKILLS Singapore, Wardah leads efforts to build meaningful collaborations that connect individuals to education, mentorship, employment pathways, and community support. Having navigated career transitions and personal challenges throughout her own journey, she understands the barriers many face in achieving economic independence.

Wardah believes that while talent is everywhere, opportunity is not. She remains committed to creating partnerships and opportunities that empower individuals and families to build brighter, more sustainable futures.

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ADA AHMAD

Ada Ahmad is a strategist, entrepreneur, and technology advocate with over 15 years of experience in digital transformation, business strategy, governance, operations, and organisational development. She has worked across the private, education, and non-profit sectors, helping organisations strengthen capabilities, improve performance, and achieve sustainable growth.

As the Founder of ADADigital Asia and Co-Founder of The Insurance Collective, Ada has led initiatives that drive innovation, operational excellence, and digital adoption. Her expertise in building systems, managing risk, and creating scalable solutions has earned her recognition as a trusted advisor and leader in business and community development.

As Vice President, Governance, Risk, Finance & Secretariat at SKILLS Singapore, Ada plays a key role in strengthening the organisation’s governance framework, financial stewardship, and operational sustainability. She is committed to ensuring transparency, accountability, and strong organisational foundations that enable SKILLS to deliver meaningful and lasting impact for the communities it serves.

Passionate about creating opportunities for growth and advancement, Ada believes that access to skills, mentorship, and support can transform lives. She champions initiatives that connect individuals to learning, employment, entrepreneurship, and community resources, helping them build resilience and achieve long-term success.

Through responsible leadership and a commitment to service, Ada continues to support efforts that empower individuals, strengthen communities, and create sustainable pathways for future generations.

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