Bridging Cultures, Building Unity: ISN Camp 2026

10 Nov 26 | Student Leadership, Leadership & Development, International Student Club

Bridging Cultures, Building Unity: ISN Camp 2026

As preparations for International Students Night (ISN) 2026 begin, students came together for a two-day camp to build connections, strengthen teamwork, and kick-start preparations for the annual, much-anticipated ISN 2026. Bringing together students from all the different international student clubs in SIM, ISN Camp 2026 provided a space for everyone to get to know one another, exchange ideas, and work towards a shared vision.

The camp kicked off with icebreakers and team-bonding activities that encouraged everyone to step out of their comfort zones. Through interactive games and sharing sessions, campers got to know one another’s strengths, interests, and experiences. What began as a gathering of individuals soon grew into a team united by a common goal.

The bonding continued with a series of outdoor team-building challenges. From navigating obstacles to tackling problem-solving activities, the campers learned to rely on one another through trust, communication, and teamwork. These shared experiences strengthened connections within the group and highlighted the importance of putting aside their own personal preferences, and working together in a global community.

The adventure continued at the beach, where the team took on a rafting challenge that put their coordination and communication skills to the test. Working together to navigate the waters, the campers experienced first-hand the importance of trust and supporting one another. Beyond the challenge itself, it was an opportunity to create lasting memories and build stronger bonds.

After a full day of activities, the team gathered for dinner before turning their attention to plan for ISN 2026. Building on the connections formed throughout the day, students exchanged ideas, shared perspectives, and narrowed down potential themes for this year’s iteration. The discussions marked an important step towards shaping the direction of ISN 2026.

Day 2 began with an energiser session before the team moved into department presentations and further theme discussions. Throughout the discussions, collaboration and inclusivity remained central to the planning process. Everyone had the opportunity to contribute their ideas, ensuring that different perspectives were considered as the team worked towards a shared vision for making their dreams for ISN 2026 become a reality.

More than just a team-bonding camp, ISN Camp 2026 was an opportunity for students to form meaningful connections, strengthen their teamwork, and take their first steps towards a better and bolder ISN. With new friendships formed, ideas exchanged, and a clearer vision, the journey towards ISN 2026 is officially underway. As the team comes together to turn their ideas into reality, there is plenty to look forward to in the upcoming event.

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Across Cultures: An Afternoon of Conversation, Connection and Community

04 Nov 26 | All

Across Cultures: An Afternoon of Conversation, Connection and Community

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.

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