In this episode of the Impact Experience podcast, host Julius Bautista engages with Dr. Carissa Foo and Dr. Kiven Strohm, both creative practitioners and lecturers at the National University of Singapore College. The discussion delves into how art and the creative process can enhance community engagement in service learning. Through exploring arts-based research (ABR), the conversation highlights the potential of creative practices to foster meaningful connections and insights, encouraging students to embrace uncertainty and vulnerability as part of their learning journey.

In this episode, Dr. Yi'En Cheng, a human geographer and lecturer at the National University of Singapore College, joins the discussion to explore the conceptual boundaries of "community" with a focus on service learning. The conversation delves into the geographical and social constructs of community, examining both top-down and bottom-up perspectives. Dr. Cheng emphasizes the importance of understanding community as a dynamic and elastic concept, shaped by social interactions, emotional bonds, and power dynamics. The episode also highlights the role of technology in maintaining community ties and the significance of stakeholder mapping in community engagement.

In this episode of the Impact Experience podcast, host Julius Bautista is joined by guests Swan Ping Poon and Dr. Michelle Lee to explore the intricacies of defining and measuring impact in service learning projects. The discussion delves into the importance of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the development of baselines for real-world change. Together, they share insights on how university-driven projects can create meaningful impact, the challenges of sustaining that impact, and the role of metrics in tracking progress.

In this episode of the IEx podcast, Dr. Amanda Blair, a political scientist with over 15 years of experience in conflict-affected regions, shares her expertise in ethics and community building. Currently a Lecturer at the National University of Singapore College, Dr. Blair discusses the application of ethical principles in community projects, emphasizing mutual respect and reciprocity. Her insights are invaluable for those interested in using research to inform projects aimed at preventing and mitigating violence, making this episode essential for anyone committed to ethical community engagement.

In this episode, we delve into a thought-provoking discussion with guests Dr. Nurhidayahti and Dr. Ng Keng Khoon, both lecturers at the National University of SIngapore College. When we engage in service learning endeavors, should we consider ourselves the 'saviors' of the communities we seek to benefit?  Join producer and host Dr. Julius Bautista in unpacking the intricate dynamics of community engagement, focusing on the pivotal concepts of power, privilege, and representation. Explore the themes of poverty porn and the savior complex, as our experts provide insightful perspectives on these critical issues.

In this episode of the IEx Podcast, we speak with  Dr Lim Chee Han, Senior Lecturer at NUS College, as he demystifies Service‑Learning—showing how it goes beyond volunteering by weaving critical reflection, academic rigor, and genuine partnership into coursework. Dr.  Lim tackles the curriculum challenges of workload, learning‑outcome alignment, and authentic community impact, while revealing the transformative potential for students to become lasting change‑makers.

Journey with us from Thailand’s upland forests to Bali’s coastal mangroves as we explore how rural communities address environmental and economic challenges. Featuring two NUSC student groups partnering with community leaders in Pong Sayaen and Desa Budeng, this episode highlights their collaborative efforts in building sustainable livelihoods, preserving culture, and stewarding Southeast Asia’s landscapes

While academic achievements are highly emphasized in the education system, many Vietnamese youths face challenges developing essential soft skills such as public and intercultural communication, leadership, critical problem-solving and lateral thinking. This gap leaves many young Vietnamese underprepared for the demands of the global workplace. In this episode, we spotlight a group of three NUSC undergraduates collaborating with community partners in Trà Vinh to conduct workshops to help local youth build essential skills, empowering them for future success.

Southeast Asia faces a waste crisis as rapid urbanization, consumption and tourism puts pressure on already limited waste management and recycling resources.   In this episode, two undergraduate students discuss their respective initiatives to improve waste management capacities through infrastructure enhancement and education in Cambodia and Sabah.  

Greenery has long been integral to the Singaporean government’s urban planning agenda.  Incorporating parks and green corridors throughout the city-state has underscored its reputation as a “Garden City.”  Community gardens have served as vibrant spaces that provide respite while promoting sustainability, wellness and small-scale food production.  But what are the challenges faced by those who cultivate these gardens?  How can students contribute to these endeavours?  Three NUSC undergraduates speak about their engagement with community gardeners in Singapore.