INSPIRxE AY24/25: An Evening of Reflections and Gratitude
The fourth run of the NUS INSPIRxE Mentorship Programme came to a celebratory end with a Mentor Appreciation Evening held at the Shaw Foundation Alumni House on 16 May 2025. The event brought together more than 70 mentors, mentees, staff and alumni for a joyous evening filled with thought-provoking conversations and wholehearted reflections, underscoring the growing legacy and unity among past and current students of the NUS Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Starting off with a sumptuous spread of wine, cheese and buffet dinner, the room was filled with an energetic atmosphere as alumni and students actively engaged with one another. Experiences and opinions were exchanged on numerous topics, particularly career exploration, student life and self-improvement. The event was formally opened by Department’s Deputy Head for Research, Professor Eric Chan, who paid tribute to the Department’s and the INSPIRxE programme’s growth and achievements over the last few years.
In conjunction with the Department’s 120th anniversary this year, one of our esteemed alumni and INSPIRxE mentors, Mr Png Yong Koh (YK) (Class of ‘85), then delivered a thought-provoking Last Lecture titled “From Rx to Possibilities: Cultivating Values, Re-careering with Purpose, and Building a Lasting Legacy.” Drawing from his diverse experiences in pharmacy practice, the pharmaceutical industry, and now as a life and career coach, YK offered valuable perspectives on building meaningful careers and lives. He spoke on the importance of developing strong personal values through the right mindsets, purpose, and habits, the pillars of his MPH Framework, while also addressing practical strategies such as networking, self-branding, and differentiating between financial freedom and security. With candid humour and heartfelt stories, YK engaged the audience in both laughter and reflection.
Expanding on these insights, YK’s book Limitless Possibilities delves deeper into the MPH Framework, offering a practical roadmap for individuals seeking clarity and growth. Whether for young professionals navigating change or mentors guiding the next generation, the book emphasizes resilience, intentional growth, and purpose-led living. Its themes closely mirror those in his lecture, making it an ideal companion for anyone inspired by his message. Proceeds from book sales during the event went towards the NUS Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science Bursary Fund, underscoring YK’s enduring commitment to nurturing future changemakers.
The evening culminated in a heartfelt mentor appreciation segment that began with a touching video montage of mentees sharing their reflections and gratitude. Each mentor was then honoured with a token of appreciation prepared by the Department and the INSPIRxE Committee. Adding a personal touch, Ms Evonne Fouesnant (Class of ’97) and Mr Tan Choon Han (Class of ‘10) shared brief but meaningful remarks, offering insights from their experiences as a first-time and fourth-time mentor, respectively. To close the night, Dr Chng Hui Ting delivered a thoughtful reflection on the growth and evolution of the INSPIRxE programme since its inaugural run in AY21/22.
From left to right: Ms Evonne Fouesnant (Class of ‘97), Mr Tan Choon Han (Class of ‘10) and Dr Chng Hui Ting
As we wrap up this run of the INSPIRxE programme, we have compiled an infographic highlighting its key features and impact. Scroll to find out more!
We would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to our mentors who have offered their time and wisdom to guide our eager mentees over these past 9 months. We would also like to thank the outgoing AY24/25 INSPIRxE committee (Shanice, Yu Qing, Caleb and Zachary), Dr Chng Hui Ting, Dr Donavan Neo and Ms Ng Shi Ying for their tireless efforts in bringing yet another academic year of guidance, shared learning and camaraderie to life. See you at the next run of INSPIRxE!
Article by Wong Ding Lin and Ng Hao Yi (Year 2 Pharmacy students)
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