There are many ways in which someone can make use of their talents to give back to society. Meet Ramlah, a bank employee by day and Singapore Cancer Society’s (SCS) superhero volunteer by night.

Back in 2017, Ramlah participated in the annual Chingay Parade as a volunteer in the SCS contingent. During rehearsals, she observed the cancer patients and survivors thoroughly enjoying the practice sessions and performance, even though some of them were still undergoing treatments.

She left inspired and decided to start a dance enrichment class called “Be Hype Be Happy”, allowing her to share her passion with the cancer patients and survivors. Ramlah believes that patients and survivors can benefit from dancing as it is a form of fitness, improving whole-body coordination, and stimulating their brain cells. Together with the social aspect of dance,the classes can improve their physical and mental health, mood, and overall well being.

Before the pandemic, Ramlah conducted dance lessons in person every week. Race Against Cancer, Relay for Life, SCS Members Annual Year-End Lunch, and Chingay Parade 2020 are some events that Ramlah had choreographed dance performances for.

The members typically are not dancers but they work extremely hard to put on a good performance. Ramlah told us that members love dancing to songs from their era because it allows them to reminisce the good ol’ days and bond over their shared memories.

Ramlah fondly recalled- how touched she was when the group surprised her on Teacher’s Day. Every class and performance is special to Ramlah and to her, seeing her students smile and enjoy themselves makes for the biggest  accomplishment.

Ramlah is a real life superhero who brings joy and light to the lives of the people she teaches. She urges more people to come forward and volunteer because it makes a difference in their lives.

Thinking of volunteering? Please visit https://singaporecancersociety.org.sg/get-involved/volunteer.html .

The article was written by SCS volunteer Geetha Thayalan.