A Calling to Serve

Rama’s volunteer work spans various roles. He mediates conflicts at the Community Mediation Centre and serves in grassroots organisations, where he oversees activities and outings for seniors, helping them get along with each other.

One of his most profound experiences was working as an officer in a destitute home for seniors for fifteen years, where many had been left behind by society.

“It was a home, but it wasn’t really a home,” Rama says. “These were people who had no family to care for them, no ICs, sometimes not even proper names. Some had never taken an MRT before. Some had never even stepped on an escalator.”

The seniors—many of whom had lived on the fringes of society for decades—were wary of authority. Some were gruff, some refused to speak, and others simply didn’t believe anyone truly cared.

But Rama, having grown up in a home himself, understood them in a way few could. He spoke their languages, not just literally, but emotionally. With patience, humour, and quiet diplomacy, he slowly gained their trust.

“They came from different backgrounds—Chinese, Malay, Indian, Eurasian—but I reminded them that inside, we are all the same. Just like in the children’s home, I brought them together, made sure they felt heard, and created a sense of harmony.”

Through his mediation skills, Rama settled conflicts, eased long-standing grudges, and most importantly, gave them dignity.

“No matter how difficult someone is, they just want to be treated with respect.”