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REGIS HIGH SCHOOL SERVICE TRIP - 13 to 21 JULY
Men For Others
This July 2024, we welcomed the inaugural group service trip from Regis High School in New York City. Current students Luca Dalven, Leo DeCock, Will Brennan, Leo Damato and Finn Kearns, together with recent graduates Michael Cameron
and Daniel Ngiam came to our centre.
They were led by teachers Mr Christopher Rose and Dr Allison Tyndall. It was a joyous visit, as many of the long-time
online teachers met their students face to face for the first time.
The team of volunteers conducted classes while continuing to grow their fruitful relationships with our students. The Regis students also lent their hands to build new shelves and cupboards in the midst of our renovations of the school. Throughout the week's visit, the high schoolers broke bread, played, danced, and sang with our teachers and students to learn more about the ZRCLC community.
We workshopped how we can improve our online learning program syllabus and the young men were enthusiastic about exploring how else they can support ZRCLC even from 15,000 kilometers away. We are heartened and blessed by
the passion of these young volunteers and the work they do.
We want to extend a great thanks to Regis High School and its students for their commitment to ZRCLC, and
we hope to see the team again next year!
CECILIA'S MOVE TO THE U.S. - 8 SEPTEMBER
Celebrating Cecilia's Incredible Journey with Us
Cecilia joined us in 2014 as an Educator with no prior experience, but her passion for teaching and commitment to growth quickly shone through. Back then, it was just Cecilia and Head Teacher Clement, teaching a small group of 30 students at our learning centre. Over the years, Cecilia blossomed into a skilled educator, excelling in teaching, coordination, and even accounting. In 2017, she took over as Head Teacher when Clement relocated to the US, and under her leadership, our centre flourished, growing from 30 to over 120 students.
Cecilia’s unwavering dedication to the growth and well-being of each child was the heart of her work. Her love for the children and dependability, whether through the good times or challenges, made her a cherished part of our community. While we’ll miss her dearly,
her legacy of commitment will always remain with us.
Here are some memories of Cecilia in action throughout the years
Quiet Yet Resoucesful
In her early years at ZRCLC, Cecilia's gentle and quiet nature was immediately noticeable. While she may have appeared reserved, she was always observing, learning, and absorbing everything around her. This resourceful personality allowed her to transition seamlessly from Teacher to Head Teacher. Her ability to adapt and excel in any situation made the transition smooth and natural, highlighting her strength as an educator and leader
An Instant Connection
Cecilia possesses a rare and remarkable ability to instantly connect with children, making them feel seen, heard, and valued. From the moment she enters a room, the children are drawn to her warm, genuine energy and her ability to engage with them on their level. Her compassionate approach fosters an environment where children feel safe to express themselves, ask questions, and explore new ideas. This innate connection creates a bond that goes beyond the typical teacher-student relationship, positioning Cecilia as a true role model in education. Her effortless ability to inspire trust and curiosity in children makes her a shining example of what it means to be an exceptional educator
Loved And Respected By Her Peers
Cecilia's remarkable qualities not only make her beloved by the children, but they also earn her deep respect and admiration from her colleagues. Her genuine kindness, unwavering dedication, and collaborative spirit create a harmonious environment among the teaching staff. Cecilia is always ready to lend a helping hand, share insights, or offer support whenever it's needed. Her ability to listen, empathize, and inspire makes her a pillar of the teaching community, someone others look to for guidance and encouragement. Her presence elevates the entire team, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose that is invaluable in creating a thriving educational environment. She will alway be missed dearly!
Reflection By Jasmin
To begin, I must say that no words could ever fully encapsulate my time volunteering at ZRCLC. I vividly remember visiting the centre for the first time, feeling an unexplainable sense of belonging—a feeling that I can only describe as the Lord’s call. I knew then that I had to return, and that there was so much more I wanted to do.
My second visit back, this time for two months, has been nothing short of transformative—a journey of discovery, growth, and profound learning. Stepping into this experience with no expectations, I was deeply humbled and touched by the overwhelming warmth and hospitality extended to me.
The dedication of the teachers, who continually strive to learn and grow, has been a constant source of inspiration. Through heartfelt conversations I gained a deeper understanding of their struggles, which often lie hidden behind their resilient spirits. It was heart-wrenching to witness how easily marginalised communities like theirs slip through the cracks of society.
And yet, amidst these challenges, ZRCLC has cultivated a remarkable culture of respect, love and hope. The students' eyes gleam with dreams for a brighter future—a testament to the school’s commitment to nurturing aspirations and character. Beyond encouraging ambitions, ZRCLC instills faith and values, shaping individuals to contribute meaningfully to society. In this, I found lessons not only for them but for myself as well.
Being part of this community reminded me of a simple yet profound truth: we are all, indeed, our Maker’s children, bound by shared humanity, and far more alike than we are different.
Every person at ZRCLC, from those in admin, to the teachers and students, plays a vital role in creating this uplifting environment. To have been entrusted with a small part in this incredible community is an honour I will cherish forever. A piece of my heart will always remain at ZRCLC.
2024 CHRISTMAS CAROLING FUNDRAISER
Again in 2024, our students will be raising money through our Christmas caroling fundraiser! This year, our proceeds will go to Rumah Kanak-Kanak Bondulu, in Sabah. RKKB is run by the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception and for local at-risk children.
The ZRCLC caroling event is a beloved annual tradition for our children that stretches all the way back to 2016.
Our annual goal is to raise funds not for ourselves, but for Malaysian beneficiaries. It is our way of giving back to Malaysia for providing us refuge and paying it forward in honour of generous Malaysians who have sustained our learning centre since 2008.