Artists with Disabilities Shine at Inaugural Kiat Lim–Shaping Hearts Awards

The spotlight was on inclusivity and artistic talent as the North East Community Development Council (NE CDC) presented the first-ever Kiat Lim–Shaping Hearts Awards at The Fullerton Hotel Singapore. Supported by the Lim Family Foundation, the evening celebrated 83 persons with disabilities who were recognised with scholarships, bursaries, and early intervention grants to nurture their artistic journeys.

The event was graced by Mr David Neo, Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, and attended by distinguished guests including Mayor Baey Yam Keng, Minister of State Desmond Choo, and philanthropist Mr Kiat Lim, whose S$1 million, five-year commitment has made the initiative possible.

Supporting Artists at Every Stage

The awards aim to empower persons with disabilities through art – from early childhood to professional practice – with three categories:

• Shining Award – for artists showing advanced proficiency and professional potential (S$5,000).
• Encouraging Award – for individuals using art in daily life for personal or social development (S$2,000).
• Budding Award – for children under seven, using art as an early intervention tool (S$1,000).

Beyond financial support, the awards provide recipients with opportunities to access training, materials, and platforms to showcase their work. Many past beneficiaries of NE CDC’s HeARTS Award have gone on to pursue formal art education, mentor peers, and exhibit their creations.

A Night of Art and Inspiration

The ceremony featured a special highlight when international singer JJ Lin joined Mr Lim, Minister Neo, and other leaders in completing a collaborative artwork with a Shaping Hearts special needs artist. The piece will be displayed at upcoming Shaping Hearts 2025 exhibitions. Guests were also moved by a heartfelt performance from Adelyn Koh, a young artist with special needs, before participating in a silent auction to support inclusive art initiatives.

Building an Inclusive Arts Future

The launch of the Kiat Lim–Shaping Hearts Award marks a milestone in NE CDC’s mission to grow Shaping Hearts into Singapore’s largest inclusive arts festival. By supporting artists with disabilities and providing them with meaningful platforms, the initiative seeks to inspire communities while opening doors to sustainable livelihoods in the arts.

For more details, visit Shaping Hearts Awards.