An afternoon of conversations, cultural experiences and new connections brought students and young people from different backgrounds together at the inaugural Integration Symposium 2026, organised by the National Youth Council (NYC) on 12 September at Sands Expo & Convention Centre.

The afternoon began with networking and small-group activities, where participants stepped outside their usual circles and got to know people from different backgrounds. Through icebreakers and conversation prompts, attendees shared their experiences with integration and reflected on some of the assumptions we may have about one another. What started as a few simple introductions soon became conversations about experiences, perspectives and the communities we live in.

The conversation continued on a bigger stage with a panel featuring Dr Lim Yiru from SUSS, local content creator Nancy, and Mr Baey Yam Keng, Minister of State for MCCY and MOT. Together, they explored some of the key issues surrounding integration between Singapore’s local and international communities, while participants had the opportunity to join in through an open Q&A. With different perspectives in the room, the discussion encouraged everyone to look at integration beyond the bigger picture and consider the role we can play in our everyday interactions.

After the panel, participants got the chance to explore the Pasar Malam of Opportunities, where booths representing different cultural and ethnic communities came together alongside organisations focused on volunteering, cultural integration, civic engagement and networking. From discovering new opportunities to learning more about different communities, the Pasar Malam offered a more hands-on way to experience the diversity that makes up Singapore.

The afternoon then took a more personal turn with Never Strangers, where participants were paired with someone they had never met before. With the day’s conversations in mind, they were encouraged to ask questions, share stories and find common ground. It was a simple way to put the idea of integration into practice — by taking the first step to connect with someone outside our usual circles.

More than just an afternoon of activities, the Integration Symposium 2026 brought together conversations, cultures and communities in one space. It was a reminder that building a more connected Singapore does not always have to start with something big. Sometimes, it can begin with being curious about someone else’s story, challenging our assumptions or simply taking the time to say hello.