Re:Define Success Conference 2025
Date: 8 Sep 2025 to 10 Sep 2025
Time: 09.00AM to 05.30PM
Venue: Singapore University of Social Sciences
Event Type: Conferences
School/Department: Student Success Centre
Register for the event!Re:Define Success Conference (RDSC)
The Re:Define Success Conference (RDSC) is an annual initiative by the Singapore University of Social Sciences’ (SUSS) Student Success Centre (SSC). It aims to broaden the definition of success through:
- Celebrating diverse aspirations and pathways
- Promoting lifelong learning for continuous growth
- Emphasising holistic development of personal and professional success
- Fostering inclusivity to harness diverse talents
The conference aims to strengthen Singapore’s social compact and maintain a strong, vibrant economy to stay globally relevant and successful. This aligns with SUSS’ mission of championing lifelong learning and impacting lives for social good.
Conference Objectives
RDSC serves as a platform to:
- Recognise best practices, research, and advocacy efforts by academics, educators, industry practitioners, and organisations
- Share and celebrate new narratives that redefine success for individuals and society
- Foster partnerships and expand reach through networking and collaboration
The conference is designed to offer an engaging and interactive experience through three key elements:
- Expression – A platform for thought leadership, critical discourse, and dialogue on redefining success
- Experience – Opportunities to engage with diverse stakeholders and witness success being redefined in action
- Ecosystem – Interactive sessions that facilitate new partnerships and collaborations
About RDSC 2025
The inaugural run of the conference is organised in
collaboration with
SUSS’ Node for Inclusive Lifelong Education (NILE) and the Centre for
Disability Studies from the University of Leeds.
Themed
‘Empowering Change, Shaping Inclusive Futures’,
RDSC 2025 focuses on fostering inclusivity in education, workplaces, and
communities.
It features three strands discussing how inclusive
practices can empower diverse individuals and communities, enhance lives, as
well as foster equity and belonging for personal and professional success.
The conference brings together academics, educators, employers,
and community organisations to foster collaboration, inspire action, share
insights, and drive meaningful change towards a more inclusive future.
| Strand 1: Inclusive Education | Strand 2: Inclusive Employment | Strand 3: Inclusive Communities |
|---|---|---|
Fostering equitable learning experiences for all, from early childhood to higher education. It invites academics, educators, researchers, and institutions to share insights on advancing inclusivity in educational settings. | Exploring business practices and industry strategies that drive inclusive hiring and workplace diversity. It highlights the importance of equitable recruitment, supportive work environments, and career development opportunities for individuals of all abilities. | Focusing on non-governmental organisations (NGOs), social service agencies, and community organisations shaping inclusive policies and advocacy efforts. It highlights initiatives that foster social belonging, accessibility, and meaningful participation for all individuals. |
RDSC 2025 Partners
| Node for Inclusive Lifelong Education (NILE), SUSS |
|---|
The Node for Inclusive Lifelong Education (NILE) is a multi-disciplinary research initiative by SUSS. It aims to serve as an inclusive lifelong learning hub in Singapore. NILE will conduct research, offer training programmes, and provide consultancy, focusing on diverse learning needs across all life stages. NILE aspires to empower educators, fostering a society where every individual can thrive through continuous, meaningful learning. It hopes to be a conduit for accessible learning, driving positive change through evidence-based strategies and collaborative partnerships. |
| Centre for Disability Studies (CDS), University of Leeds |
|---|
Established in 1904, the University of
Leeds is one of the largest
universities in the United Kingdom. The university is part of the
Russell Group, renowned for its quality research and teaching. In
2022, SUSS and University of Leeds signed a memorandum of
understanding leading to various activities including faculty and
speaker invitations to conferences and workshops in Leeds and
Singapore.
For more information, visit their websites: |
Featured Speakers
Keynote Speakers
| Professor Roger Slee | Dr. Jaclyn Lee | Professor Kenneth Poon |
|---|---|---|
Diamond Jubilee
Professor in Disability and Inclusion | Chief Human Resources
Officer, Certis Group | Lien Foundation Chair
Professor of Education |
Plenary Speakers
| Mr. Bernard Chew |
|---|
 Chief Executive
Officer |
Panel Discussion
Inclusive Education
Speakers:
Professor Roger Slee
Diamond Jubilee Professor in
Disability and
Inclusion
School of Sociology and Social Policy
University of
Leeds
Ms. Tan Sze Wee
Executive Director
Rainbow Centre
Professor Lim Lee Ching
Director, Node for
Inclusive Lifelong
Education (NILE)
Singapore University of Social Sciences
Mr. Chong Leong Fatt
Deputy
Principal
Institute of Technical
Education (ITE) College Central Central
Moderator:
Dr. Eunice Tan
Head, Special Education Programme
Singapore
University of Social Sciences
Topics of Discussion:
This panel discussion explores strategies and practices that support diverse learners across all levels of education. Key topics include Universal Design for Learning (UDL), accessibility in curriculum design, support for learners with disabilities, and inclusive assessment practices. Through this session, education professionals are invited to critically reflect on existing systems and co-develop inclusive approaches that remove barriers, foster belonging and empower all learners to thrive regardless of background, ability, or learning preference.
Inclusive Employment
Speakers:
Dr. Jaclyn Lee
Chief Human Resources
Officer
Certis Group
Ms. Lee May Gee
Chief Executive Officer
SG
Enable
Mr. Stanley Tang
Chief Executive Officer
APSN
Mr. Max Soh
Research and Policy
Manager
Disabled People’s
Association
Mr. Ong Chin Wah
Chairman, Committee of
Management
Employment
4 Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (E4PID) Co-op Ltd
Moderator:
Dr. Eunice Tan
Head, Special Education Programme
Singapore
University of Social Sciences
Topics of Discussion:
This panel discussion explores the promotion of equitable opportunities for individuals of all abilities to participate meaningfully in the workforce. Discussions will cover inclusive hiring practices, workplace accommodations, job coaching, employer education and policies. The session aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by fostering partnerships among institutions, industries and communities – towards a more inclusive environment where everyone can contribute, grow, and succeed in their chosen careers.
Inclusive Communities
Speakers:
Mr. Bernard Chew
Chief Executive Officer
St. Andrew’s
Autism Centre
Mr. Warren Sheldon Humphries
Community and
Partnerships Manager
Ludus
Lab Singapore
Ms. See Toh Huixia
Director of Family Services
Asian
Women’s Welfare Association (AWWA)
Mr. Lionel Teo
Head Coach
Special Olympics
Singapore
Moderator:
Mr. Harminder Singh
Vice Dean of Students, Student
Success Centre
Singapore
University of Social Sciences
Topics of Discussion:
Inclusive communities are built on connection, empathy, and shared responsibility. This panel discussion invites conversations on creating environments where diversity is embraced and everyone experiences a sense of belonging. Topics may include community engagement, advocacy, accessible public spaces, inclusive events, and support networks. By highlighting real-world initiatives and collaborative models, this session encourages participants to reimagine how inclusive values can be embedded into everyday interactions and institutional culture
Day 1 (Mon, 8 Sep 2025)
| Time | Programme |
|---|---|
| 08:30 - 09:00 | Registration |
| 09:00 - 09:30 | Opening & Welcome Address |
| 09:30 - 10:30 | Keynote Address (Inclusive Education): Professor Roger Slee Recovering Hope and Redefining Success in Dark Days |
| 10:30 - 11:00 | Morning Reception |
| 11:00 - 12:00 | Concurrent Sessions |
| 12:00 - 14:00 | Lunch and Exhibition |
| 14:00 - 15:00 | Panel Discussion: Inclusive Education |
| 15:00 - 15:30 | Tea Break |
| 15:30 - 16:30 | Concurrent Sessions |
| 16:30 - 17:00 | Collaborative Ideation Session |
| 17:30 - 19:30 | Networking Dinner |
Day 2 (Tue, 9 Sep 2025)
| Time | Programme |
|---|---|
| 08:30 - 09:00 | Registration |
| 09:00 - 10:00 | Keynote Address Dr. Jaclyn Lee Inclusive Employment at Certis |
| 10:00 - 10:30 | Morning Reception |
| 10:30 - 11:30 | Panel Discussion: Inclusive Employment |
| 11:30 - 12:30 | Concurrent Sessions |
| 12:30 - 14:00 | Lunch |
| 14:00 - 15:00 | Keynote Address (Inclusive Education): Professor Kenneth Poon Making SPACE for every student: A shared yardstick for successful inclusion |
| 15:00 - 15:30 | Tea Break |
| 15:30 - 16:00 | Collaborative Ideation Session |
| 16:00 - 16:30 | Plenary Address Mr. Bernard Chew St. Andrew’s Autism Centre |
| 16:30 - 17:30 | Panel Discussion: Inclusive Communities |
| 17:30 | Closing |
Day 3 (Wed, 10 Sep 2025)
| Day 3 will offer curated learning journeys, providing participants with the opportunity to engage with inclusive practices in real-world contexts. Participants are required to pre-register for their preferred visit, and confirmation is subject to quotas and minimum participation. Participants will be notified of their allocation closer to the event. | |
| Organisation* |  Inclusive Education
|  Inclusive Employment
|  Inclusive Communities
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Project Dignity | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Mushroom Buddies | ✔️ | ✔️ | |
| Canossaville Children and Community Services | ✔️ | ✔️ | |
| Kindle Garden | ✔️ | ✔️ |
*Subject to change. Do keep a lookout for update(s) of organisations listed!
About Learning Journeys
Project Dignity
Dignity Kitchen’s hawker-focused
programmes encourage
interaction with Singapore’s differently-abled community and
provide a platform for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
activities. These activities include team bonding, creating awareness
of workplace inclusion, social entrepreneurship, and innovation. The
seven stalls are manned by the differently-abled and disadvantaged.
This learning journey will take participants through a
unique experience of Singapore’s “hawker culture,”
encompassing the passion for hawker food and the power of engaging the
community. To make this learning journey meaningful, there is a food
preparation session with trainees with special needs.
Mushroom
Buddies
Mushroom Buddies is a Singapore-based social
enterprise under the
Employment for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (E4PID)
Co-operative. E4PID was established in 2011 by a group of parents to
provide meaningful employment for their children with intellectual
disabilities. Mushroom Buddies has grown since 2020 into a thriving
urban farm that empowers individuals through sustainable mushroom
farming and is supported by volunteers who walk the inclusive journey.
This learning journey highlights the importance of
creating inclusive communities. Mushroom Buddies fosters a supportive
environment where individuals with disabilities are trained, hired,
and retained, empowering them to take on greater challenges and
responsibilities.
As this is an outdoor event, participants are advised to
wear comfortable clothing. Sunscreen and insect repellent are
optional, and you may want to bring an extra set of clothes for a
change.
Canossaville Children and Community
Services (Canossaville)
Canossaville Children and Community Services
(Canossaville) is a
social service agency in Singapore that has been serving children and
families since 1941. Located within the Canossian Village in
MacPherson, it offers a holistic, inclusive, and community-centered
approach to education, care, child development, and family support.
Through this learning journey, you will get a first-hand
experience of their services:
- Canossaville Preschool: An inclusive early childhood centre for children aged 18 months to 6 years, accommodating both neuro-typical children and those with mild to moderate learning needs, with a focus on hearing loss.
- Canossaville Student Care: A student care centre for primary school children, offering a safe and conducive environment for after school care, learning support, and enrichment activities such as speech and drama and life-skills development.
- Canossian Early Intervention Programme for Infants & Children (EIPIC) that supports children aged 6 years and below with moderate to severe developmental needs through one-on-one, and/or small group interventions by the early intervention teachers, as well as therapy services by the allied health professionals.
Kindle Garden
Access to quality early childhood education is
a crucial aspect of an
inclusive social compact. Kindle Garden was founded in 2016, as
Singapore’s first curated inclusive preschool. Kindle
Garden’s programmes are accessible for all children including
those diagnosed with additional needs such as Global Developmental
Delay, Cerebral Palsy, Down syndrome and hearing and visual
impairment.
In this learning journey, you will get to
witness a holistic immersive bilingual curriculum, purpose-built
facilities for optimal engagement and access of every child, and
personalised learning where children can develop at their own pace and
grow to become confident and compassionate citizens who are
well-prepared to navigate the rapidly evolving world with critical
21st century skills.
Conference Registration
| Registration Type | Early Bird | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Participants | SGD$150 | SGD$180 |
| Presenters | SGD$50 | SGD$50 |
| Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)* | SGD$10 | SGD$10 |
| Caregivers of PWDs* | SGD$10 | SGD$10 |
Early bird registration: 21 May 2025 – 16 July 2025
For any queries, please email us at [email protected].
*Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and/ or their caregivers are entitled to a concessionary registration fee of $10 (The standard registration fee is $180).
Venue
This conference will be held at:
SUSS Block 23
Ngee Ann
Polytechnic
535 Clementi
Road
Singapore 599489
Getting here
Accessibility features
Accessible Washrooms
Lift Dimensions
The lifts to the conference venue are accessible. The layout and dimensions are specified for accessibility considerations and needs.
Request for Exhibition Booth
Partners who are keen to showcase their products and services related to inclusive education, employment, and communities at the conference are invited to submit a request for an exhibition booth. Each display booth consists of the following:
Kindly email your interest to [email protected]. Requests are on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that the committee reserves the right to decline request submissions that are not aligned with the objectives or theme of RDSC 2025.
International Participants
Accommodations
For participants of RDSC 2025, the following hotel(s) offer special room rates during the conference period from 7 to 11 September 2025:
lyf Bugis Singapore
Reservations can be made via the hotel website using promo code:
SUSS2025
*Promotion is only valid for bookings between 5 Sep to 13 Sep and
must be made by 5 Aug
| Room Type | Size (sqm) | Bed | Rate (S$) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nano Queen | 11 | Queen | S$140++ |
| Nano King | 13 | King | S$140++ |
| One of a Kind / Side by Side | 16 | King/Twin | S$150++ |
What's included?
- Complimentary use of social spaces- co-working space/communal lounge, social gym and social kitchen.
- Complimentary High-Speed WIFI
- Complimentary Laundry Tokens
- 02 tokens for Studio apartment per week (daily rate)
Important notes
lyf Farrer Park Singapore
lyf is a co-living concept that allows digital nomads, technopreneurs, creatives and self-starters to “live your freedom” in a dynamic environment. The apartments, social spaces and curated programmes at lyf are designed to forge new connections and nurture communities.
Nearest MRT Station: Farrer Park Station (NE8)
Reservations can be made via the hotel website using promo code:
SUSS2025
*Promotion is only valid for bookings between 5 Sep to 13 Sep and
must be made by 5 Aug
For reservations, go to lyf Farrer Park website.
| Apartment Type | Size (sqm) | Occupancy | Daily Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| One of a Kind (Studio Queen) | 15 | 2 | $150+ *$158.10 nett* |
All rates are subject to 9% Goods Services Tax. All nett rates above are inclusive 9% Goods Services Tax. Goods and Services Tax (“GST”) is charged based on prevailing rates as levied by the Government of Singapore – *9% GST in 2024.
What's included?
Important notes
One Farrer Hotel
One Farrer Hotel is a lifestyle retreat hotel-resort situated in one of Singapore’s heritage districts, Little India, with Farrer Park MRT station right at its doorstep. The hotel takes pride in its award-winning permanent collection of over 700 pieces of original contemporary abstract art from across Greater Asia, the largest of its kind in Singapore. Spanning over 20 Levels, residents can also explore 15 water and tropical gardens, including a fully operational Farm.
Nearest MRT station: Farrer Park Station (NE8)
For reservations, please email [email protected] and quote "SUSS-Sep".
| Room Types* | Rates per night |
|---|---|
| Mint Room (Single Occupancy) | S$240++ |
| Mint Room (Double Occupancy) | S$265++ |
| Mint Premier (Single) | S$310++ with 1 Skyline Lounge Access |
| Mint Premier (Double) | S$370++ with 2 Skyline Lounges |
*All rooms include Breakfast and Wifi
Rates are in Singapore Dollars, subject to 10% service charge & 9% GST.
Terms: 48-hr cancellation policy. Check-in: 3PM, Check-out: 12PM. Late check-out incurs additional fees.
Terms & Conditions
Visa and Customs
Most visitors to Singapore do not require a visa for entry. For more information on visa requirements and the Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF), visitors are encouraged to consult the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority or the Singapore Overseas Mission. The duration of stay granted will be indicated on the visit pass endorsement in the passport.
If a letter of invitation is required for a visa application, please email [email protected].
Things to do in Singapore
Inclusivity
Enabling Village
The
Enabling Village is an
all-accessible space that supports people with diverse abilities. It
combines retail, lifestyle, and training, and features social
businesses staffed by both able-bodied and disabled individuals. It
provides career advice, training, and job placement for jobseekers
with disabilities through partnerships with voluntary welfare
organisations. The space is designed holistically with assistive
technologies to facilitate participation by visitors with
disabilities. It is staffed by people with diverse abilities,
skills, and ideas. Visit the
Enabling
Village
website for more information.
City Gallery
The
Singapore City Gallery
features over 50 interactive exhibits that depict Singapore's
evolution into a highly liveable city in Asia over the past 50
years. The gallery showcases the city's development story by
presenting the planning challenges and innovative solutions employed
to overcome them. Visit the
Singapore City Gallery website
for more information.
Heritage Discovery
Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Singapore's ethnic enclaves by exploring Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam. This activity is perfect for those seeking an authentic experience of the city's heritage. To explore other parts of the city, see visitsingapore.com
Nature Walk
Singapore has been recognised as one of the world's greenest cities, with a thriving network of green spaces that integrate nature into urban living. Over six decades of greening efforts have contributed to a more liveable, sustainable, and climate-resilient city. The Singapore Green Plan 2030 aims to further advance these efforts and turn Singapore into a "City in Nature." To explore our city in nature, visit the National Parks (NParks) website.
Gardens by the
Bay
Gardens by the Bay is a
101-hectare park featuring three spaces, including the world's
largest glass greenhouse and a mist-filled Cloud Forest. The
Supertree Grove lights up at night with a Garden Rhapsody of light
and sound, and Bay East Garden offers stunning sunset views. Visit
the
Gardens by the Bay website
for more details.
Singapore Botanic
Gardens
The Singapore
Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a large park with
a rich history spanning over 150 years. With thousands of plant
varieties, including rare orchids and ancient trees, it's a great
place to visit for nature lovers. Visitors can take a leisurely
stroll, have a picnic, or explore educational zones and forest
habitats. The gardens also offer recommendations on what to see, do,
and eat. Visit the
Singapore Botanic Gardens website
for more information.
Wildlife Parks
The wildlife parks in Mandai are committed to world-class animal care, conservation, and sustainability. They are partnering with the wider conservation community to promote biodiversity and animal welfare interests. Mandai is undergoing transformation into an integrated wildlife and nature precinct, featuring new parks, an eco-friendly resort, a nature-themed attraction, and green public spaces. The precinct is designed to provide a conducive habitat for native wildlife and to offer memorable experiences that connect people with nature. For more details, visit the Mandai Wildlife Reserve website.
Museum & Exhibitions
National Museum of
Singapore
The National
Museum of Singapore, established in 1887, showcases Singapore's
history and development using advanced technology and creative
storytelling. It hosts various events and activities, including the
Night Festival and art installations, and has a resource centre with
a large collection of publications on cultural studies, design, and
Singapore's history. Visit the
National Heritage
Board website
for more information.