Struggling academically and feeling out of place in school, Solana Maria Mendoza discovered purpose and confidence through volunteering, paving a path to one of Singapore’s highest youth honors.
- Struggled academically and socially in school
- Found direction and confidence through community volunteering
- Awarded the National Youth Achievement Award Gold in 2025
What happened
Solana Maria Mendoza faced academic challenges and social isolation throughout her primary and secondary education, often feeling like she did not belong and lacking confidence to speak up. Despite her quiet nature and modest academic results, she persevered and sought opportunities beyond traditional schooling.
Her breakthrough came with her acceptance into the Community Care and Social Services course at the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) in 2020. This new environment introduced her to community service on a deeper level, where she discovered both a supportive circle of friends and a meaningful way to engage with others through volunteering.
Why it feels good
Volunteering became a turning point for Solana, helping her build self-belief and social skills that had eluded her earlier in life. Working with vulnerable children at aLife Limited’s Caterpillar Club, she developed leadership abilities while nurturing bonds of trust with children who were initially reserved.
These experiences empowered Solana to find her voice and break out of her shell, realizing that connecting with others and contributing to their growth was not only rewarding for them but transformative for her. She grew alongside the children she supported, learning to advocate and speak up with confidence.
What to enjoy or watch next
Solana’s story is featured as part of CNA Women’s Gen Z series, highlighting inspiring journeys of young women across Singapore. Keep an eye on upcoming installments for more voices reshaping their communities with passion and perseverance.
For those interested in youth development and community service, following the National Youth Achievement Award recipients offers a glimpse into the remarkable talents and stories of the next generation. Their experiences can motivate anyone facing challenges to keep moving forward and discover their own unique path.