Little one has Big dreams
By Veena Bharwani
SOME went dressed as teachers, while others arrived as soldiers and scientists.
But 10-year-old Bronson Cheng had bigger dreams.
He arrived at Maha Bodhi School yesterday in a simple all-white outfit - as none other than Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew. The school, along with 16 others, celebrated The New Paper's Be Yourself Day (BYD) on 31 August.
The event at Maha Bodhi School, held in conjunction with Teacher's Day, was graced by President S R Nathan.
Bronson said: 'Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew is my idol because he's smart and always helps people. I hope to become as clever as he is.'
His simple outfit was matched by white-framed spectacles, which drew the attention of President Nathan, who promptly reminded him, in jest, that MM Lee does not wear spectacles.
An avid supporter of BYD, Maha Bodhi School raised more than $13,000 this year for The President's Challenge.
The President's Challenge is an annual fund-raising event that supports 37 local charities.The New Paper has been part of the Challenge since its inception 10years ago. It began organising BYD eight years ago and since then, more than 100 schools have come on board to raise more than $1 million over the years.
$13,888 in three days
Maha Bodhi School took just three days to raise the $13,888 from a school-wide donation drive last week. Said principal Lim Bee Lay: 'This is the fifth year we have taken part in BYD so our staff and students are well aware of the cause.
'We did not drop a bombshell on parents but we talked about helping the less fortunate all year. It is part of our on-going character education programme.
'We managed to raise the money thanks to the support of our teachers and parents. They really understand the value and importance of giving back to society.'
Other than MM-wannabe Bronson, there was a policemen, a pharaoh and one student who came as Michael Jackson, in honour of the late king of pop.
Said President Nathan: 'It was nice to see the aspirations of the different kids. They have a lot of dreams and like to play different roles.'
On the importance of BYD, President Nathan said: 'The 'Be Yourself' theme is important because it allows students to discover what their ambitions are, though the real message will probably sink in only later in life.'
Teachers, too, dressed up in the spirit of the event.
To help connect with the students, teachers Preston Tan, 44, Ian Ang, 30, and Fabian Loh, 32, came to school as Japanese anime characters. Said Mr Tan: 'We wanted to bridge the gap between teachers and pupils and let them know we can have fun too. The pupils are interested in Japanese anime.'
And six female Primary 5 teachers turned up as Japanese schoolgirls. 'We just wanted to have some fun and surprise the kids,' said Ms Jenny Wong, 38, the primary 5 level manager.
