Photos! Photos! Photos!

More photos to be found HERE.

Second Chances in the Park: It's over!

Last night, the weather forecasts all said that there would be thunderstorms over the city at 4pm. This caused a rather large amount of distress for the Second Chances team (and especially to me).

But today at Hong Lim Park, not only was it NOT raining, it was actually sunny! Which made it perfect for chillaxing on the grass listening to the awesome music from the bands and having a chat with friends and family, eating grapes and slurping candy canes.

It was a cosy little gathering, with smiles all 'round. We also had quite a few passers-by stop to enjoy the music, take some photos and find out more about what we were up to, which means that more people know about Yong Vui Kong and the mandatory death penalty issue in Singapore, which is always good!

We collected quite a number of signatures for Vui Kong's birthday banner, which will be given to him (if possible) for his birthday on the 16th of January.

On behalf of the Second Chances team, I would like to thank the bands for their music, and everyone who attended our event to share in the good times. We would also like to thank Just Beer (for loaning us the sound system), Joshua for designing our logo (that led to the badges, T-shirts and banner), Han Thon for the photography, James for the videography, Lynn, Andrew and Shelley for all the help and advice, and Jolovan for helping us out when we were really FLAT BROKE! Thanks also to Jarrod for helping us get the folding tables and to Russell and Jann (and various parents and friends) for helping us out with the transport, since youth = no car/got car also dunno how to drive.

If we've forgotten anyone, please forgive us! Know that we thank you and love you anyway! ❤❤❤

That said, the campaign is far from over. Now that Second Chances in the Park is over, we're going to have a little break for Christmas and then come back to think about another event for the 16th of January:  a birthday cake for Vui Kong. We can't imagine how difficult it must be to have a birthday on the eve of the week in which it gets decided whether you live or die, and we just want to come together to let him know that he's not alone. (And also to eat cake, cake is good.)

So if you couldn't make it to Hong Lim Park today, no fear, for there is another chance in January!

Cheers,
Kirsten

P.S. I'm sorry there aren't more photos at the moment, but we'll be putting up photos soon. We're also working a little video montage for those who couldn't make it to the event, so watch this space!

IT'S ON TOMORROW!

The generator's been picked up. Tonight two of us are going to pick up the sound system (seeing that neither of us drive, something really simple is turning into a bit of a logistical nightmare). We've got the guestbook for people to write messages in. The banners are all ready. The performers are lined up. We're all registered with NParks. We've got the T-shirts, wristbands and badges. Everyone's fingers – plus toes – are crossed for good weather.

Apart from the weather which we have no control over, everything is coming together for Second Chances in the Park, and we hope that you'll help us make the event a successful one by joining us tomorrow. After all, there's plenty to celebrate this season – it's Christmas, we're alive, we're young, we're blessed, we're happy, GDP is up, exams are over, etc. etc. And of course, CELEBRATE SECOND CHANCES! :D

Sunday is coming!!!

Last night, TheOnlineCitizen organised Face To Face, the political event of the year. Thanks to the team and everyone who turned up, it was a great success and a very interesting night. But now that's over, the next big event of this week would be Second Chances in the Park! :D

We're still working hard to make sure that everything will go smoothly, but things are falling into place nicely: bands/performers, T-shirts/wristbands/badges, banners, etc. We want this to be as good an event as we can make it, and hope that you'll join in the fun!

Singaporean youth are often criticised as being apathetic, spoilt or uncaring. We hope that with Second Chances in the Park we can show people that there are Singaporean youth who are willing to come forward and speak up for what they believe in. At the same time, we would also like to send messages of support and hope to Yong Vui Kong and everyone else who has ever made a mistake in their lives. It would mean a lot of us if you would come down to Hong Lim Park on Sunday to join us as well.

Bring your parents/children/relatives/friends/teachers! We will not be protesting or demonstrating, but just celebrating how wonderful it is to be alive, to be young, to forgive and to be forgiven. Feel free to bring picnic mats and baskets and have a nice picnic on the grass in the park! (How often do people in Singapore actually have outdoor picnics, anyway?)

Although only Singaporeans and PRs are allowed to perform/make speeches, we welcome anyone and everyone who would like to drop by and hang out with us, as well as sign Vui Kong's birthday banner. The Second Chances team will also be available the whole afternoon for you to come up and have a chat; we'd love to see you!

See you there!

To all those who supported us at Face To Face last night by buying T-shirts, badges and wristbands, thank you! For those who didn't get the opportunity, all these goodies will also be at Hong Lim Park on Sunday.

Frankie - Hardened criminal to successful artist

We have a new story to share with all of you, courtesy of Lianain Films:



Listening to his story, it seems like there is nothing Frankie hasn't tried before in his life. Armed robbery, drug peddling, gang fights (with serious injuries and even death), escape from jail... he really did do it all. He spent a large part of his life doing time for all sorts of offences.

Thanks to the Yellow Ribbon Project giving him a second chances, he's managed to turn things around for himself, and is now a pretty successful artist. He is held up as an example to all. "See? The Yellow Ribbon Project works!"

Hearing his story makes me feel like there's hope in everyone, no matter how young or how old they might be. It is never too late to change your life. It is not impossible for people to turn things around.

And so if Frankie could do this with such success, why should we deny Vui Kong the opportunity to try? After all, he is half Frankie's age. With the proper guidance and rehabilitation, he too could change his life and show us the value of second chances.

See you on the 19th at Hong Lim Park, 4pm!

Second Chances – Banner Painting

We'd arranged to meet at 4pm, thinking that the worst of the afternoon heat would be over by then. WRONG. Thankfully there was shelter for us at Bras Basah Complex!

After assembling all our gear (brushes, fabric paints, banner cloth etc.) we started to draw. Or rather, we stood around the banner hoping that someone else would start to draw. With none of us being particularly good at art, everyone was afraid of drawing and "ruining" the banner!

Fortunately Tavis manned up and showed us all how it's done. He did the outlines for the whole banner, so the rest of us more "chicken" people could just paint within the lines.

It was plenty of fun painting, and everything went pretty well, which was a huge relief. No one spilled paint, and although we were attacked by the wind a few times we always managed to save the banner before the paint got smudged everywhere.

Damien smudged a bit of the logo once, but everyone deserves a second chance, so we forgave him. ;)

We did kind of run out of green paint, though...

Painting went from about 4:30pm all the way to 8:30pm! We had to wait for the paint to dry, and then we also did a second banner for everyone to sign for Vui Kong's birthday.

It was a long afternoon's work, and all we had to offer was Oreo cookies. So here's a big THANK YOU to everyone who showed up to paint these banners – they look great!

As Damien said, "Probably the happiest banners to be at Hong Lim Park!"

Check out more photos at our Facebook group!

Presenting Second Chances wristbands and badges!

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, it is our great pleasure to present...

SECOND CHANCES WRISTBANDS AND BADGES!

As part of our fundraising efforts for Second Chances in the Park, we will be selling these for S$3.00 (without postage) or S$3.50 (with postage).

Get them posted to you, or pick them up on the 19th at Second Chances in the Park – it's up to you!

If you are interested in buying any wristbands or badges, please email webelieveinsecondchances@gmail.com and we'll get back to you regarding postage/payment/any other enquiries as soon as we can.

And please, share this with all your friends! Help us make Second Chances in the Park a success!

(We're still fixing up a few little bugs and problems with our PayPal system, so if you run into any trouble using it let us know and we'll try to fix it for you. Thank you!)

Paint a banner, have some fun!

We Believe in Second Chances is gearing up for Second Chances in the Park!

This Sunday (12th December 2010) we will be at Bras Basah Complex painting our banner for the event. Come join us for an afternoon of socialising and fun with paint! Help us design and paint the banner, or just come by to say hello and hang out – either way, we'd be really glad to see you!

Feel free to bring your drinks and snacks as well, if you'd like to sit and chat (or feed the event team hehehe).

Join the fun!

Share this e-invite on your blog, your Facebook, your Twitter! Spread it to all your friends! Come join us and have fun!

Calling all performers!

Do you have a band? A breakdance crew? A choir? A cheerleading squad? Are you a singer? A stand-up comedian? A clown? A unicyclist?

We are now looking for groups/individuals who would like to perform at Second Chances In The Park! We welcome anyone who is interested, regardless of age. However, due to the rules and regulations of Hong Lim Park, you do need to be a Singaporean citizen or at least a PR.

If you know of any performance groups, please pass this message on! We hope to recruit as many performers as we can to make Second Chances in the Park a fun kick-ass day for everyone! 

Please contact us by either filling the form under the 'About Us' tab on our FB page, or emailing webelieveinsecondchances@gmail.com.

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Meanwhile, to atone for not being in Singapore work alongside our awesome organising team, I have been wearing the Second Chances T-shirt all up and down Laos...

We will be selling Second Chances T-shirts (might not be exactly like the one I've got) for about S$12 soon, in a bid to fundraise for Second Chances in the Park. If you're interested, please leave a comment so we know how many we'll need to print!

"Vui Kong's story changed it all for me."

“I never really thought about it.”

That was the answer I gave my French teacher back in 2005 when he asked me if I supported the death penalty. I remember this exchange well, and have thought of it often this past year, sometimes with amusement and other times with shame.

I remember that he had been horrified. “How could you not think about something like this?”

I shrugged. I just hadn’t. I was 16, I’d just finished my O Levels and life was pretty good. I was making new friends in the first three months of junior college. I was going out shopping, watching movies, doing things teenagers do. I didn’t have the time to think about such serious, dreary, faraway things. I figured that I didn’t need to. I wasn’t planning to murder anyone, or traffic drugs, so it wasn’t ever going to affect my life.

In the 5 years since that exchange with my teacher, almost all my convictions have been put to the test. I kept finding myself in situations I had previously assumed with complete confidence I would never find myself in.

Between 2005 and 2010 life taught me this lesson: whatever has happened to someone else could just as easily happen to you. Don’t be too quick to dismiss or judge a person, because one day that person could be you.

On the 15th of March this year I was introduced to the siblings of Yong Vui Kong, and saw Vui Kong himself at his appeal. Although we come from completely different backgrounds and experiences, when I saw him the first thing that crossed my mind was, “Oh my God, he’s my age. A little twist of fate, and that could be me sitting in the dock.”

Vui Kong’s story changed it all for me. Seeing him that day, the impact and implications of the death penalty finally became real to me. And once I saw that it was a real thing affecting the lives of real people, I could not help but feel that the death penalty was wrong.

I started to read every news article I could find about Vui Kong’s case. I read up on past cases. I read up about the use of the mandatory death penalty in Singapore. I read the Misuse of Drugs Act. I read books about the death penalty in Singapore, as well as in other countries. I read Amnesty International reports. I read No Choirboy: Murder, Violence and Teenagers on Death Row by Susan Kuklin, a collection of stories of youth sentenced to death in America, told in their own voices. I wanted to understand as much as I could about every aspect of the death penalty: ethical, logical, legal, practical, etc.

In this way I learned more about compassion, forgiveness, mercy and humanity than I would have ever been able to learn in a classroom.

Together with Damien Chng, I set up We Believe In Second Chances because I sincerely feel that people can change, if only they were given the chance. Everyone makes mistakes, and everyone deserves a chance to show that they are more than their worst acts.

As a young Singaporean, We Believe In Second Chances is a way for me to let my voice be heard. It is an opportunity for me to show my country that even though I am young, I am concerned about what is going on in society. And most importantly, it gives me a chance to try to save a life.

I really hope that you will join me.

Sincerely,
Kirsten Han

Second Chances In The Park
Date: 19 December 2010
Venue: Speaker's Corner, Hong Lim Park
Time: 4pm – 6pm

Second Chances in the Park: The work begins!

Over the past week Damien and I (plus our amazing network of wise gurus and supporters) had been discussing Second Chances in the Park almost exhaustively in person, over email, FB chat and SMS. But this morning we had our first official team meeting.

I was feeling a little stressed out and worried before about all the logistics of the event, feeling like I was in over my head. However, after meeting up with everyone today and talking over all the issues related to the event that we could think of, I left the meeting feeling not only reassured by also super-excited about 19th December!

So I'd like to send out a HUGE THANK YOU to those who came to the meeting today. I would also like to thank those who were unable to attend the meeting, but have nevertheless pledged their time, skills and energy to helping Damien and I organise Second Chances in the Park.

These volunteers had come across our Facebook page and sent us emails asking how they could help, out of kindness and goodwill. It is heartening to see Singaporeans – especially young Singaporeans – coming forward to support Second Chances, and to be willing to commit their precious free time to helping us with this event.

So keep watching this space as we update you on our progress towards the main event - Second Chances in the Park, 19th December 2010.

- cheers, kirsten

From gang fights to mentor

David is a student of the Singapore Management University (SMU), with a double major in Psychology and Human Resources. He was the recipient of the Youth Shine Award 2010, which celebrates youth achievement. He has appeared in newspapers, his success story held up as an example for all to see.

But David was not always a star pupil.

In his secondary school days, he gang-hopped between 9 to 10 gangs, playing truant and getting into fights. He failed his Secondary 3 year three times, even after he was moved into the Normal (Academic) stream. He lost his best friend after rivals seeking revenge attacked his gang, and David was jailed for 18 months for rioting.

Upon his release, he went back to his old ways and got into more fights, attracting more trouble that landed him in jail for 6 years for attempted manslaughter.

These 6 years in jail was a wake-up call and a turning point for David, who began to pay more attention to his education. He went from a boy who could not pass Secondary 3 to the O Levels top-scorer in his class. He also scored well enough in his A Levels to gain admission into SMU.

David now works with Architects of Life as a mentor to “at-risk” youth, guiding them away from the mistakes that he had committed in his teenage years.

In this short video, David talks about his experience.

"I feel as if my life is just about to begin."

My name is Kim, and I am 22 this year, just like Yong Vui Kong.

I have by no means had any run-ins with the Law, but I am not a perfect person. There are things in my past, just as I am sure others have, that I am deeply ashamed of; I have done things that have grieved those around me, and there are things I wish I could erase completely from the archives of my life.

But I stand as a testament to the fact that (1) people change (sometimes in ways almost inconceivable), (2) sometimes people just require time and circumstance to mature, (3) going through rough patches, stumbling, falling, picking yourself up, falling, and then picking yourself up again can do so much to make you a better person at the end of the day, and (4) as disgustingly cliché as it might sound to you, change is really all about the process, and not necessarily what’s tangible at present.

Three years ago, when Vui Kong was 19, he was convicted of Drug Trafficking, and given the death sentence. He has since then, spent three years in prison.

Three years ago, I was in the hospital, sick with an Eating Disorder. I was depressed, lacked purpose in life, and pretty much felt like dying half the time.

Take another three years away from that, and the 16-year-old me was a horrible, rebellious, recalcitrant secondary school girl. I spent most of my time in and out of the principal’s office, had way too many one-on-one “sessions” with various teachers, the discipline mistress, and school counselors who tried to make me see the importance of studying and not mixing with the “wrong crowd”. I smoked, played truant, vandalized, shoplifted, used fake IDs to get into clubs, got drunk one time too many, and did a whole host of other things I think I’d spare you the details of.

I spent a large part of this afternoon clearing out old blog posts (some of which were privatized, for obvious reasons), and I balk at the person I used to be. Some of the things I did, some of the things I thought, are almost alien to me now. I have no clue what possessed me to even think the things I did, before.

I have now (since more than a year) fully recovered from the Eating Disorder, am furthering my studies overseas, have a clear idea of what I’d like to be/do in the future, and am savouring every moment of it.

If not for the various forms of authority that had so kindly pardoned me and given me a generous share of second chances, I would not be here today. I thank God for the grace and mercy He has bestowed upon me- via the different people in my life, and I can only pray Vui Kong experiences the same.

In so many ways, I feel as if my life is just about to begin. Surely, Vui Kong’s cannot be coming to an end?

Written by: Kim

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This piece was written as part of We Believe In Second Chances’ Then And Now series, where people share their personal experiences and reflect on how they have changed from when they were young (or younger), or how second chances have helped them.

If you would like to share your own story, please do. It doesn't matter how old you are, where you live or how "boring" you think your life is – everyone has his or her own experience and everyone has a story. There is no word limit, and don't worry about your language/writing skills – this is not a composition test!

Please send in your pieces to webelieveinsecondchances@gmail.com.

Youth For Second Chances

Our video is finally here!

Youth For Second Chances was shot on one (very hot) September day in a variety of locations around Singapore. We met up with young dancers, freerunners and musicians, all of whom had agreed to appear in our video in the hopes that it would contribute to the campaign to save the life of Yong Vui Kong.

Heartfelt thanks to everyone who volunteered their time and energy in the making of this video!

- cheers, kirsten

See what other blogs wrote about this video:
- Lianain Films
- Save Vui Kong

"Please give Yong a second chance in life too."

I grew up in a lower-middle income family in Singapore and my parents were always busy at work just to make ends meet. My elder brother used to bully me and we often fought when we were young. Whenever my dad comes home, he would beat the hell out of the two of us whenever we got into an argument. Sometimes, my dad returns home drunk and would turn violent on my mum with broken furniture and blood everywhere.

I hated being at home and I got to know friends in the neighbourhood who had similar family problems. We smoked, joined gangs, got into fights and drugs both selling and consumption. Having seen my cousin in the same gang got killed during a gang fight over mistaken identity, I gradually distanced myself from the gang but still got hooked to drugs.

On 21 Nov 1999, I had a very bad trip on ecstacy and suffered fits and psychosis, my friends had no choice but to inform my parents who in turned called the ambulance. I was admitted to hospital for 5 days, totally insane and speaking a different language. Police came and my dad pleaded for a second chance because of my insanity and due to the fact that I would be graduating from a polytechnic in a few months' time.

I have no idea why the police didn't take any action against me even though clinical records clearly showed I got involved with drugs. Perhaps it was due to my father's plea, I have no idea, even until now and I don't talk about it anymore.

It took me a few weeks to recover and it was a very tough few weeks. It was the most terrible experience of my life. I am 30 years old now, earning a good income to support my parents, wife and son.

I do not think I deserve the second chance anymore than Yong. Please give Yong a second chance in life too.

Written by: Jamie Mygraine

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This piece was written as part of We Believe In Second Chances’ Then And Now series, where people share their personal experiences and reflect on how they have changed from when they were young (or younger), or how second chances have helped them.

If you would like to share your own story, please do. It doesn't matter how old you are, where you live or how "boring" you think your life is – everyone has his or her own experience and everyone has a story. There is no word limit, and don't worry about your language/writing skills – this is not a composition test!

Please send in your pieces to webelieveinsecondchances@gmail.com.

"He deserves a second chance."

My story is hard to talk about but I will tell you...

I have suffered from depression, anxiety, panic, and a lot of other issues ever since I was about 2 years of age. I have never felt close with my parents (family). I was adopted when I was a few weeks old. I guess I never felt that blood connection, and we are very different people.

I have always been sad and liked to keep to my self. Art, Music, Animals and Singing have always been my passion, and that's all I ever wanted to do.

I have learning disabilities (a disorder, as dyslexia, which affected me while in my school age). So I always got picked on, never had any real friends which made me refuse to go to school and stay home to do my art.

The school filed for me to go to court but I refused to go. I was in a deep state of depression. So I had a warrant out for my arrest. I was about 12 years old the first time I got in trouble and sent to a psychiatric hospital. They took me in handcuffs and brought me to court, I had no chance on explaining why I did what I did or what I was feeling. They placed me in a psychiatric hospital. I was unable to see my family or talk to them for days and no one told me what was going on.

Eventually they placed me on medication which in return caused me to have suicidal thoughts and then I attempted. Something stopped me. I don't know why or what it was, but if that thing didn't stop me I wouldn't be here now to help Yong Vui Kong, Animal Rights and Human Rights. So I'm glad.

I was living there for about 6 months. They neglected to tell me that once you're in the "System", you cant get out until your 18 years old. I outgrew that placement and was transferred into a private residence for children involved in drugs, emotional/mental illness and the law. It was at that placement when I got involved with the wrong people. I took up smoking and drugs, as well as hanging around people who dealt drugs.

For over 4 years I was involved in all of that. Failed school, got serious with a loser ( I was naive to believe he loved me), I spiralled out of control. I got involved in a long term relationship with someone who was deeply ill, mentally. I was not aware of this until it was almost to late. I was engaged with this person for over two and half years. On and off.

They left the school illegally. I then got a call that they had been raped in her home by a guy they let stay over and that I should call them. Well, I did not call them. I promised them I would protect them, and so I left the school a few months before I was 18 to go be by their side.

I left illegally as well. I hid with them in NYC so I wouldn't be found by the cops, for the summer untill I turned 18. I was high and drunk every day. almost ODed many times. Almost got arrested many times. We always got into fights. We broke up and I left their house. I became homeless (partly my fault).

It wasn't until the cops found me sleeping in a park with other kids (homeless) and admitted me to another psychiatric hospital that I realized I needed to wake up.

I moved back with my parents. I left all the bad people. I became an activist for animal rights and human rights. I started eating healthier which took me on the path of vegetarianism.. a while after I became vegan.

I still felt lost. I needed to find a way to understand my inner self. I had no control of myself and my emotions. I needed something else. I was introduced to Buddhism. I took up Yoga/Meditation.

I have become a full time Activist/Volunteer. I have always believed in eveyone and everything being equal.

I was then alerted about Vui Kong From a good friend of mine who lives in Malaysia. Hearing and reading About Yong Vui Kong and how much we are alike opened my eyes and heart.

I immediately broke down in tears as I am now because that could be me, and he does not deserve this!

It hit me hard. He and his story touched me deeply. I feel for him, and his family. Reading his letters and his story has inspired me. He has come a long way, and turned into a more amazing being than he was before and than I ever was, or probably could be.

He has made me realize how dark I was in my past and how I need to change before its too late. And deep down behind my pokerface I was a scared, confused, and lost little kid who had no direction.

Buddhism and Yong has made me realize who I am as a person and what I'm meant to be, and do with my life. I'm meant to help others in need. Give back to people.

I never had someone like Yong to talk to... Someone to come to for guidance like I've heard people are doing with him now. If I did... I probably wouldn't have gone down that road.

If Yong had someone like who he is now, back then, he probably wouldn't have done what he did either.

I wake up at 6am every morning and check for updates on his case. I then do my yoga and meditation. And I pray to, and for him. I look to him for guidance. His words (letters) help me overcome great problems I encounter. His dream is the same as mine, which amazed me. He is a true Angel.

And now, I have become Vui Kong's voice In NY and America. And I will not stop here. I have made it my life's mission to fight for human and animal rights. Starting with Yong Vui Kong.

I will not give up on saving his life. I will not give up on helping make his dream of helping others, and fighting for the Anti- Drug Campaign come true.

Yong Vui Kong is not just a person. He is one of, if not the most selfless, caring, enlightened, strong and inspirational people I have ever heard of in my life.

He deserves a second chance.

This is giving Singapore a bad name as people; by murdering this person who if you let him could be the one to change the way drug trafficking is for the better. He could be the answer to all the problems. He can be these people's savior.

If people can see how he can come from knocking on death's door to enlightened and a teacher for other beings you would be better off.

Why shouldn't Vui Kong be giving a second chance of life? The public needs to help Yong and the people of Singapore. We may be his only chance. Your voice may just be the voice they need to listen to.

Yong Vui Kong does not deserve this, nor do others in his situation. Saving one life will in return save many! He's in a way saved mine. And I am blessed for getting the chance to know of such a person like Vui Kong. I will never forget him.

Written by: Elyssa Ivy

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This piece was written as part of We Believe In Second Chances’ Then And Now series, where people share their personal experiences and reflect on how they have changed from when they were young (or younger), or how second chances have helped them.

If you would like to share your own story, please do. It doesn't matter how old you are, where you live or how "boring" you think your life is – everyone has his or her own experience and everyone has a story. There is no word limit, and don't worry about your language/writing skills – this is not a composition test!

Please send in your pieces to webelieveinsecondchances@gmail.com.

"I am more than my mistakes."

Flipping through my diary of 2007 is a strange, strange experience. The stories are familiar, but it almost feels as if I’m reading about someone else’s life. I turn the pages past flyers, Neoprints, birthday cards, newspaper cuttings and little romantic notes from my very first boyfriend; I recognise them but they seem to be from another time, another world so far removed from me, and who I am now.

I was 18 for most of 2007, only turning 19 in November. I had just moved to New Zealand – a country I had always admired but where I knew not a soul – in the second half of 2006, and was just getting used to really having to stand on my own two feet.

The list of things I didn’t know was long. Very long.

I didn’t know how to cook – I didn’t even know how to turn the oven on. I didn’t know how to drive (not even in theory, as I do now). I didn’t know how to clear a clogged shower drain. I didn’t know how to deal with overly eager men who tried to put on my shoes for me (long story). I didn’t even know about the specific chilly bin in refrigerators that you had to keep the veggies in.

But most importantly of all: I didn’t know who I was.

I knew that I was a teenager, that I was a bit nerdy and that I was genetically incapable of any athletic activities, but beyond that I lacked a real sense of self.

I had no idea what I really believed in, besides the “true love” of romantic comedies and that “there must be a God… probably”. I was useless in any sort of intellectual debate because I was simply incapable of taking a stand. My fear of confrontations meant that I would bend over backwards to avoid disagreeing with anyone. I didn’t believe in myself, or trust myself to know what was right or what was wrong.

Skip forward to 2010 and I surprise even myself with how much I have changed. The 2007 version of me would never have believed it.

In 2007, all I wanted for my future was to get along somehow, keeping my head down and eating biscuits. I wasn’t even interested in ever coming back home to Singapore. Now I have fallen in love with my home country all over again, and find it important to speak up for what I believe is right, because I believe that my Singapore is capable of so much more. And so I’ve started volunteering, blogging (about Singaporean issues) and also participating in campaigns such as this one.

In three short years my life has changed directions and taken on a trajectory neither I, my friends or my family would ever have expected. And although my past experiences will always be a part of me, it is impossible to define me according to anything I did or thought at the age of 18 or 19.

I am more than my mistakes, and I have so much more to live for, so much more to contribute.

Just like Yong Vui Kong.

Written by: Kirsten Han

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This piece was written as part of We Believe In Second Chances’ Then And Now series, where people share their personal experiences and reflect on how they have changed from when they were young (or younger), or how second chances have helped them.

If you would like to share your own story, please do. It doesn't matter how old you are, where you live or how "boring" you think your life is – everyone has his or her own experience and everyone has a story. There is no word limit, and don't worry about your language/writing skills – this is not a composition test!

Please send in your pieces to webelieveinsecondchances@gmail.com.

"I can’t imagine how much I would lose if my life is going to end right now."

Thinking back, I have gone a long way since my teenage years. When I was 15 to 16, I lost interest in my studies. I did not do well for a few subjects and was even made to drop one. I managed to pull through my ‘O’ levels with an average score. Design was something I would love to go into as a polytechnic course. Yet, my parents did not approve of me studying it. Eventually, I landed in a food technology course. With encouragement from my friends, I managed to complete my polytechnic course smoothly. I then went on to join a food technology degree course, which was supposedly quite tough. Moreover, it was a condensed version – an originally 4-year course which we were expected to complete in 2 years. It definitely wasn’t easy for someone like me who did not have much interest in this area. Nevertheless, I did not give up and I am about to graduate soon.

Right now at age 22, I find that I have accomplished much and I still have the chance of doing something I like in the future. I believe things do change even within a few years. I find the past me not determined enough and I did not set clear-cut goals for myself. Procrastination was also a serious problem during my Secondary school days. Experiencing different events and looking at different people have inspired me much and shaped my determination over the years. As long as I am alive, I do not want to give up on my interests! I can’t imagine how much I would lose if my life is going to end right now. No longer can I pursue my dream and aspirations. And no longer can I see my dearest family and friends again.

Written by: Goh Huibing

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This piece was written as part of We Believe In Second Chances’ Then And Now series, where people share their personal experiences and reflect on how they have changed from when they were young (or younger), or how second chances have helped them.

If you would like to share your own story, please do. It doesn't matter how old you are, where you live or how "boring" you think your life is – everyone has his or her own experience and everyone has a story. There is no word limit, and don't worry about your language/writing skills – this is not a composition test!

Please send in your pieces to webelieveinsecondchances@gmail.com.

"Human beings are all fallible."

When I was 19... Wow, that was a long time ago! As I remember, when I was 19, life was such a bore. I was waiting to complete my National Service. I was keenly looking forward to University and excited about my entire life ahead of me. What a contrast with Vui Kong, whose life now hangs in the balance!

While I was also from a family of humble means, I was not really deprived. No hardships interfered with my schooling and my life was worry-free and varied and thoroughly enjoyable. True misery and deprivation I only tasted when I entered the army. But there was always the bright light at the end of tunnel: ROD! So there was always hope.

During my schooldays, I had my share of mischief. When I was 17, I fell in for a while with a rowdy bunch of boys. We had a charismatic leader who taught us lock-picking and shoplifting. We went around stealing some petty stuff, breaking and entering into offices in school, and even attempted to peek into the girls' toilet! It was all done for thrills and we were smart enough not to get caught and also to know when things were getting out of hand. The group soon broke up after an argument with our leader.

The thing is, I faced no terrible hardships or challenges. And yet, in the folly of youth, ventured into petty crimes for the sake of thrills. Under more compelling circumstances, what else might I have done?

Human beings are all fallible. Youth all the more so. As a fallible person to another, we should extend sympathy and compassion. Thus, I firmly oppose capital punishment. I wish Vui Kong good luck in the fight for his life. I wish M. Ravi success in his valiant and noble campaign. And I hope this sad story will have a happy ending: that Vui Kong will have a chance to live to teach other young people of how he erred in his youth and made good of a second chance extended to him, and how Singapore and its legal officers finally found mercy in their heart to let him live.

Written by: Jonathan Teo

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This piece was written as part of We Believe In Second Chances’ Then And Now series, where people share their personal experiences and reflect on how they have changed from when they were young (or younger), or how second chances have helped them.

If you would like to share your own story, please do. It doesn't matter how old you are, where you live or how "boring" you think your life is – everyone has his or her own experience and everyone has a story. There is no word limit, and don't worry about your language/writing skills – this is not a composition test!

Please send in your pieces to webelieveinsecondchances@gmail.com.

"It's never too late for people to change."

When I was 18, I was in my 2nd year of my pre-U days but working hard to get into University was the last thing on my agenda at that time. All I wanted was to be seen as this cool gal in school; I wanted all the attention I could possibly get.

I got the attention from guys definitely but that wasn't enough. To be "cool" and accepted, I tried smoking, played truant, skip classes, spoke back to my teachers, vandalized school properties and I even slashed my wrists. For a period of time, I ate with my wrists facing down to the table to avoid getting noticed by my parents. I was rude to my family members each time they showed their concern. I repeated that year before eventually getting kicked out of school and blamed my parents for not sending me overseas.

Some may wonder but I am from a close-knitted family who shares everything... I just didn't tell them about my new "activities".

To cut the story short, I failed my A levels as a private candidate and didn't get to the university. I went through depression at the age of 23 as I felt small without a degree and my pay was meagre and I started slashing my wrists again to "take away the pain" (but never to commit suicide).

Now, at 30, I have 2 diplomas from SIM and NIE (National Institute of Education) and currently pursuing a degree in counselling. This is also my 9th year as a teacher and I no longer regret my past coz it has moulded me to be who I am today. I'm rather old to be an undergrad but never too old! =)

I am who I am because of my past and because of that little hope that so many people believed in. My mum always tell me: "It's never too late for people to change. It may take months or even years but people do change eventually." =)

Written by: Huda

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This piece was written as part of We Believe In Second Chances’ Then And Now series, where people share their personal experiences and reflect on how they have changed from when they were young (or younger), or how second chances have helped them.

If you would like to share your own story, please do. It doesn't matter how old you are, where you live or how "boring" you think your life is – everyone has his or her own experience and everyone has a story. There is no word limit, and don't worry about your language/writing skills – this is not a composition test!

Please send in your pieces to webelieveinsecondchances@gmail.com.

"A person who has a heart gives second chances."

I share something in common with Vui Kong. I have run afoul of the law before.

I will spare you the details of what happened to me, but I'm admitting this fact so that those who are reading this will know that I’m not shooting my mouth off.

Yes, I did not face the death penalty, but like Vui Kong, I went through the whole process of going to court for hearings and the whole mambo jumbo nonsense of the legal system.

I’m sure Vui Kong will agree with me that the process is very tiring and exhausting.

But I cannot imagine what is going through Vui Kong’s mind when he’s going through this whole process with the word ‘death penalty’ hanging over his head.

I remember vividly the fear and nervousness whenever I have to stand before a judge. I wasn’t there for Vui Kong’s hearings, but I am also sure he shares the same feeling with me.

The toll that the trial took on my family was laid bare for all to see when my parents broke down after my sentencing.

It is different for Vui Kong’s family because of the media’s interest and spotlight on this case. There is no private moment for them to grieve after every hearing. One can only imagine how much they are suffering.

3 years is a long time. Unlike Vui Kong, I didn’t have to wait so long to hear my sentence. I was in a way given a second chance with a relatively light sentence.

3 years on, I’m thankful for the second chance that I received.

Because as a Cell Leader to a group of very young teenagers in my church, I’m able to teach them what is right and what is wrong to prevent them from walking down the path that Vui Kong and I once took.

I changed because I was given a second chance. We need to believe that Vui Kong will change too, after going through what he has gone through.

Is giving him a second chance too much to ask for?

To the judges, lawyers and whoever is involved in this case, all I can say is: A person who has a heart gives second chances.

Written by: Shawn Lim

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This piece was written as part of We Believe In Second Chances’ Then And Now series, where people share their personal experiences and reflect on how they have changed from when they were young (or younger), or how second chances have helped them.

If you would like to share your own story, please do. It doesn't matter how old you are, where you live or how "boring" you think your life is – everyone has his or her own experience and everyone has a story. There is no word limit, and don't worry about your language/writing skills – this is not a composition test!

Please send in your pieces to webelieveinsecondchances@gmail.com.