Two paths, one purpose: How two President's Scholars found meaning in helping others

Samuel Poh and Charlene Tan have won the 2026 President's Scholarship, Singapore's most respected award for young people heading to university. Singapore's Public Service Commission gives this award to students who show strong character and a real desire to help others. President Tharman Shanmugaratnam presented the awards on August 14 at the Istana, Singapore's presidential palace. About 70 guests attended the special ceremony.

Samuel Poh, 19, first learned about helping others through soccer. His coach encouraged him to join Hougang United Football Club at age 15, and he eventually became team captain. His teammates came from very different backgrounds — some faced hardships at home, and others struggled in school. Poh said this experience opened his eyes to challenges he had never known before.

Poh also volunteered during his school years at Anglo-Chinese School (Independent). He tutored younger students in math every week and helped run monthly programs for children with difficult family situations. He did this work through Lakeside Family Services, a charity in Clementi. These experiences made him believe that people are a nation's greatest strength, no matter where they come from.

Charlene Tan, 20, grew up volunteering thanks to her parents. She organized recycling drives, gave online tutoring, and supported charities like Club Rainbow, which helps children with serious illnesses. She is the first female Singapore Police Force scholar to win the President's Scholarship. She began studying forensic science at Pennsylvania State University in January 2026.

Both scholars were praised by President Tharman for more than just their accomplishments. He said the award is a responsibility, not a privilege. He reminded them that Singapore's public service will face bigger challenges in the future. He called on them to be role models of both humility and hard work.