Singapore internship highlights sport's role in fostering inclusion

Havana: "I have grown in confidence, learning how to adapt, contribute and thrive in a completely new environment."

When the opportunity to intern with Sport Singapore first came across my path, it was one I knew immediately I couldn’t pass up.

I wanted to immerse myself in the real workings of the sport industry and gain a clearer understanding of where a career in this space could take me. The idea of doing this in an international environment, while experiencing a completely different culture, made it even more exciting. It felt like the right challenge at the right time.

Although I have lived away from home before, arriving in Singapore still felt like stepping into something entirely new.

What stood out immediately was the way the city blends modern urban life with nature, lush greenery sitting alongside skyscrapers in a way that feels effortless.

Beyond the physical environment, it was the culture that made the biggest impression.

Singapore is incredibly diverse, and that diversity is woven into everyday life. From the languages spoken to the food and traditions celebrated, there is always something new to learn. It didn’t take long before I found myself fully immersed, becoming more curious and open to experiences I hadn’t encountered before.

 My time at Sport Singapore was centred around working with CoachSG, where I focused on developing coaching curriculum for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). This became the core of my internship.

I researched coaching frameworks from different countries and contributed to the redevelopment of the existing curriculum to make it more inclusive and practical for coaches working in this space.

Havana: "From day one, I felt welcomed and encouraged to contribute, which made a significant difference to my overall experience."

This work challenged me to think beyond traditional coaching methods. It required a deeper understanding of how to create environments where all individuals can participate meaningfully in sport.

Being part of a project that prioritises accessibility and inclusion reinforced why I am passionate about this industry in the first place.

While the curriculum work was a major focus, some of my most valuable learning came from hands-on coaching experiences.

I assisted in weekly Frame Running workshops for individuals with Cerebral Palsy, supported Special Olympics training sessions focused on conditioning and endurance, and worked one-on-one with an adaptive athlete in strength and conditioning.

These sessions pushed me to adapt quickly and think critically.

Coaching in this environment is not about applying a fixed approach, it is about understanding each individual and responding to their needs in real time.

The experience reshaped how I view coaching, highlighting the importance of patience, empathy, and flexibility.

I assisted in weekly frame running sessions with Rahaman (from ActiveSG – Para Sports Academy) for individuals with cerebral palsy.

During the internship, Havana assisted with weekly frame running sessions for individuals with cerebral palsy

One of the most memorable aspects of my internship was the team I worked with. The environment was supportive, collaborative, and genuinely enjoyable.

From day one, I felt welcomed and encouraged to contribute, which made a significant difference to my overall experience.

I also had the opportunity to observe Sport Singapore’s transition into SpexSG, which provided insight into how organisations evolve to better support athletes. Seeing this process unfold gave me a deeper appreciation for the strategic thinking and adaptability required within the sport sector.

Outside of work, Singapore offered endless opportunities to explore.

I spent my time discovering new areas, trying local foods, and learning about the history behind them.

Experiencing cultural celebrations such as Chinese New Year, Ramadan, and Hari Raya (Islamic celebrations) gave me a deeper appreciation for the country’s diversity.

One of the most meaningful parts of this experience was having friends and family come to visit.

What started as my own journey of exploration became something I could share with others. Showing them around Singapore made me realise how much I had grown in confidence and familiarity with my surroundings.

Havana: "I spent my time discovering new areas, trying local foods, and learning about the history behind them."

This internship has had a lasting impact on both my personal and professional development.

I have gained a deeper understanding of how Singapore’s sport system is structured, particularly its focus on long-term athlete development and preparing for future generations.

More importantly, I have grown in confidence, learning how to adapt, contribute, and thrive in a completely new environment.

This experience has strengthened my passion for working in the sport and exercise science industry, particularly within inclusive and adaptive sport.

I am incredibly grateful to the Asia New Zealand Foundation for making this opportunity possible. It has not only shaped my career direction, but also how I view the role of sport in creating inclusive and meaningful experiences for all.

The Foundation's sports programme provides New Zealand sportspeople and administrators opportunities to grow more knowledgeable, connected and confident with Asia.

The Foundation's Sport Singapore internship is an opportunity for young New Zealanders to intern for three months at Singapore's lead agency tasked with developing sports culture.