Meet two inspiring recipients of the 2024 SPF Outstanding Volunteer Award, Mdm Evon Chia and Mr Nazarudinsha Bin Abdul Rahim, who embody dedication and leadership in service to the community.
By: Christabelle Lim
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) Outstanding Volunteer Awards recognise our volunteers for their exceptional dedication, innovative contributions, and inspirational leadership.
This year’s winners include Mdm Evon Chia, a 79-year-old retiree serving as a Crime Prevention Ambassador (CPA), and Mr Nazarudinsha Bin Abdul Rahim, a 47-year-old Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officer who volunteers as a National Police Cadet Corps (NPCC) Honorary Officer.
On Stage for Crime Prevention: Mdm Evon Chia
Meeting Mdm Chia for the first time felt like visiting Grandma’s house – filled with warmth, laughter and good cheer! That same vibrant energy radiates through every community engagement she participates in as a CPA.
Swiping through her photo reel of past engagement events, one can’t help but marvel at her tireless enthusiasm and unwavering spirit over the past 20 years.
Mdm Chia began volunteering in 2004, inspired by her friend who introduced her to the CPA scheme. Two decades later, she continues to find immense joy in her role and cherishes the strong community spirit among her fellow volunteers. “It’s important to have a good time while volunteering,” she declares.
One unique aspect of Mdm Chia’s volunteerism is her flair for performing. Leveraging her background in theatre, she takes part in crime prevention skits to educate the public, particularly the elderly, on scams.
“Entertaining skits keep the crowd engaged, making it easier for them to absorb our message and avoid falling victim to scams,” she explains. “Seeing the smiles of the audience and knowing we’ve made a difference is very fulfilling!”
Reflecting on her two decades as a volunteer, Mdm Chia says, “The shared purpose and friendships I’ve built along the way kept me motivated. Knowing that our efforts create a positive impact on the community makes every moment worthwhile.”
My Inspiration, My Mentor: Mr Nazarudinsha Bin Abdul Rahim
Mr Nazarudinsha’s volunteer journey started when he was a young boy through the inspiration of his father, a uniformed officer. He was drawn to the uniformed services and joined the NPCC in secondary school. The mentors he met when he was an NPCC cadet instilled in him a strong desire to serve and give back.
Mr Nazarudinsha shared that his recent experience as a Parade Trainer for the NPCC Annual Parade 2024 had been incredibly rewarding as it gave him the opportunity to mentor younger volunteers and cadets. Moments like these reaffirm his passion for volunteering.
That’s also why he takes the time to recognise and affirm each individual’s strengths and motivations: “When volunteers feel that their unique talents are recognised and valued, they become more connected to the mission and will be motivated to contribute wholeheartedly.”
Mr Nazarudinsha strongly believes in empowering his peers, creating training and mentorship programmes to help fellow volunteers feel supported and connected with their volunteer work. “Never underestimate the value of your effort,” he advises. “Every act of service, no matter how small, can make a real difference. Ultimately, it’s the combination of purpose, community and continuous growth that drives me to keep serving!”
A Shared Message of Inspiration
For both Mdm Chia and Mr Nazarudinsha, receiving the Outstanding Volunteer Award is a humbling acknowledgment of their dedication. Thank you for your service over the decades!
If these stories have inspired you, step forward and make a difference today! Read more stories about volunteering in the SPF through our Volunteer Series!