The Paint-A-Wish Tree, filled with colourful messages from PIF Day 2024 participants, was unveiled by NUS President Prof Tan Eng Chye (left) and PIF Challenge Chairman Mr Ow Tai Zhi (right).

Two NUS alumni are demonstrating that meaningful impact doesn’t require vast sums, just empathy and a desire to give back.

The Plant-It-Forward (PIF) Challenge is built on a simple idea: every gift of S$1,000 to the Challenge will be recognised with a tree planted on campus. Proceeds support the Enhanced Financial Aid Scheme (EFAS), ensuring financial challenges never block access to education. Each tree planted is a tangible symbol of this commitment.

Bringing Warmth to Others: Mr Ow Tai Zhi

For Mr Ow Tai Zhi (Business ’11), the cause is deeply personal. As a student, he juggled late-night jobs and early classes, enduring persistent hardship. He vividly recalls the support he received from a classmate’s mother before his university exchange to Tsinghua University. During a farewell lunch, she gave him a fruit basket, later revealing S$20,000 in cash and a cheque for the same amount hidden beneath. This unexpected generosity left a lasting impression on him.

Now, as Chairman of the PIF Challenge and co-founder of AutoWealth, Mr Ow is driven to pay that kindness forward. He views his role as a steward and motivator, ensuring students in need receive support while fostering a culture of giving. “Every gift could mean one less youth going through what I went through,” he said.

Mr Ow Tai Zhi expressing his appreciation to the participants of PIF Day 2024.

Mr Ow also sees broader value in the initiative. To him, the PIF Challenge blends philanthropy with sustainability in a way that resonates with a Gen Z audience. It offers a meaningful and personal avenue for students and alumni alike to contribute to a future where no one is left behind.

He hopes that student beneficiaries will continue to pay forward the support they received, and carry on the spirit of generosity. “Be grateful for the warmth you received,” he advised, “and be that person who brings warmth to others.”

Giving Back in Gratitude: Mr Leow You Hao 

Mr Leow You Hao (Engineering ’21) is another supporter of the PIF Challenge. Moved by the support he once received during the COVID-19 pandemic, he knew he wanted to give back in his own way. At a time when his family faced financial hardship, the Malaysian Community Bursary Fund enabled him to continue his studies at NUS without added worries.

“That support gave me the confidence to push forward,” he recalled.

Rooted in his gratitude as a bursary recipient, Mr Leow You Hao gives back to the PIF Challenge today.

Now an executive engineer at Surbana Jurong,  Mr Leow’s gift reflects his desire to pay it forward. “One small gift can benefit society in big ways,” he said, framing his contribution as a commitment to education, sustainability and future progress.

Mr Leow reflects on his NUS journey as transformative. Beyond academics, it shaped his character. “I built lifelong friendships, discovered my strengths and developed a sense of purpose,” he shared. His hope is that future EFAS beneficiaries will grow through similar experiences, empowered to overcome challenges and realise their full potential.

Every young person deserves a chance to thrive through a transformative education, regardless of their financial circumstances. Give to the Plant-It-Forward Challenge today to ensure financial support for students in need through the Enhanced Financial Aid Scheme. What's more, every S$1,000 given towards the Challenge will be recognised with a tree planted on campus, symbolising both opportunity for students and a greener future for all.