The Peak Power List 2016 Unveiled

To give away money is an easy matter and in any man’s power, Aristotle said. But effecting change through the best means possible is no simple task.

As the value of traditional chequebook philanthropy is being evaluated, an emerging wave of givers is taking matters into their own hands. And this year, The Peak honours 10 social change advocates who have worked tirelessly towards building a sustainable future for the public good.

In consultation with the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre, and with counsel from Laurence Lien, co-founder and CEO of the Asia Philanthropy Circle, we turn the spotlight on 10 individuals who have dedicated their lives to addressing various social causes.

From autism, environment and food wastage, to community development, the “overlooked” and equipping the disabled with employable skills, they have devoted personal resources in their bid to enrich the lives of others.

One father, after finding local facilities and support networks lacking, founded an organisation that has since transformed autistic education and caregiving. A former top executive gave up a cushy job to concentrate on her social enterprise that aims to create job opportunities for the disabled. Yet another has purposefully invested in social enterprises that tackle poverty-related issues such as education and homelessness.

These are their stories.