The Power of a Simple Ask
Inspired by the transformative power of education, two graduating NUS students rallied their peers to raise funds for students in financial need.
This story is featured in the NUS Giving Report 2025/2025 - Future: Powered by Giving. Click here to read more Giving Report stories.
Every year, graduating students at the National University of Singapore (NUS) mark the end of their journey through giving. Since 2007, Commencement Class Giving (CCG) has brought final-year cohorts together by raising support for their juniors.
Last year, CCG efforts raised over S$50,000 from 2,630 donors, supporting NUS undergraduates in financial need. Contributing to this strong show of support were two standout CCG champions. Together with their peers, Mr Cyrus Xu Zhiyi (Engineering ’22) and Mr David Sebastian Hartono (Business ’26) rallied their networks for this meaningful cause.
Reaching Out to Peers
Cyrus shared that fundraising was never about chasing numbers—it was just about doing his part and seeing where it might lead. “In the process, it became more meaningful when I realised that even small efforts could add up and make a difference,” he said.
For David, motivation stemmed from seeing how a good education transformed his and his peers’ lives. “I wanted to give others the same chance to shape their lives, regardless of circumstances,” he shared.
David witnessed firsthand how education transforms lives, and shared this with his peers.
Neither relied on elaborate strategies. Cyrus focused on reaching out to his peers from the School of Continuing and Lifelong Education (SCALE), and met with an overwhelming response. “Because there was already trust and familiarity, people were more open to contributing,” he reflected. “It didn’t feel forced—it felt like supporting a fellow classmate in need.”
David had a similar experience. “My approach was simple, to be honest,” he said. “I simply told my peers about my cause and people around me were willing to contribute.”
Discovering Widespread Generosity
Another thing that surprised the two was how readily generous people were. “Based on my interactions with the people I spoke to, I believe people are just fundamentally kind,” David shared. He recalled how one co-worker voluntarily pitched in to give, even without being asked. “Some may give less, some may give more…but overall, people were willing to give for a good cause.”
Since Cyrus’ peers were mostly Continuing Education students, many of them looked at the gift as a deeper appreciation for the value of education.
Cyrus (middle, taking the photo) rallied his peers (pictured) to support the meaningful cause.
Both David and Cyrus understand the importance of supporting financial aid. David saw how it helped his friends succeed, while Cyrus added that one need not benefit personally from financial aid to recognise its impact. “Those who are able should step forward to support those in need,” he said.
As they graduate, both see giving as part of a larger continuum. “It’s about passing on the spirit of NUS,” Cyrus said. “If each batch contributes a little, it grows into something bigger.” David echoed this, calling it a privilege to be part of a lasting legacy.
Their stories are a reminder that giving doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, it starts with a simple ask and grows through shared effort. When people come together, many small contributions add up to something meaningful.
It doesn't take a lot to make a difference. Join us in creating impact when you make a gift today to support our students.
