Education

What I Did.

I completed a Diploma in Arts Business Management at Ngee Ann Polytechnic, a comprehensive diploma program that provided me with both the theoretical foundation and practical skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to the arts and heritage sector. The curriculum offered a multidisciplinary overview of how cultural organisations function, with emphasis on key areas such as arts administration, marketing, audience development, community engagement, and financial planning. These modules were designed not only to deepen academic understanding but also to cultivate the real-world competencies required for success in the creative industries. By exploring the interconnectedness of cultural, economic, and social frameworks, the diploma equipped me with a holistic view of how arts institutions can drive both impact and sustainability.

Throughout the three-year diploma program, I completed a wide range of modules that spanned both theoretical and applied learning. These included Academic Writing & Presentation, Introduction to the Arts I & II—covering foundational knowledge in music, theatre, visual arts, and dance—as well as Introduction to Arts & Heritage Management. More practice-oriented modules such as Festival & Event Management, Arts Marketing & Communication, Human Capital Management, and Financial Management enabled me to translate concepts into tangible projects. These experiences helped me develop a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities involved in managing creative institutions. They also gave me greater insight into the cultural landscape of Singapore and its position within the wider regional and global arts ecosystem.

What I Learned.

This diploma strengthened my capacity to think both strategically and creatively within the context of the arts. Through coursework and applied projects, I learned how to develop marketing plans tailored to specific audience segments, design inclusive programming for diverse communities, and apply sound business principles to ensure the long-term viability of cultural initiatives. The emphasis on hands-on learning honed my organisational, project management, and communication skills, and taught me how to work collaboratively across disciplines. I also gained practical experience in crafting proposals, managing budgets, and producing events—skills essential for any future role in arts and cultural work.

Beyond technical competencies, the programme deeply influenced my values and approach as an emerging arts practitioner. Modules such as Community Art and Education-Outreach & Engagement highlighted the transformative role the arts can play in fostering inclusivity, social connection, and cultural understanding. I became more attuned to the ways in which the arts can serve as a platform for underrepresented voices and as a bridge between different communities. These lessons reshaped my understanding of the purpose of art—not simply as an aesthetic pursuit, but as a socially embedded practice that has the potential to build empathy, challenge assumptions, and strengthen collective identity. The programme affirmed my belief that cultural work can be both meaningful and impactful when approached with intention and care.

Goals for Continued Learning.

As I move forward, I am eager to apply the knowledge and skills I have gained in real-world contexts through internships, collaborative projects, and volunteer work with arts organisations. I am particularly interested in deepening my experience in project management, community-based programming, and audience development—areas that I believe are crucial to building inclusive, engaging, and sustainable cultural experiences. I also hope to work on initiatives that bring the arts into everyday spaces, making them more accessible and relevant to broader publics, especially those who may not traditionally engage with the arts.

To remain adaptable in a fast-evolving sector, I plan to attend workshops, masterclasses, and seminars focused on cultural policy, digital transformation, and inclusive design. I also aim to explore the intersections of arts, education, and social innovation, and to take on leadership roles in future projects that allow me to coordinate teams, collaborate with stakeholders, and drive community-centered outcomes. This diploma has not only provided me with a solid academic and practical foundation, but has also solidified my long-term commitment to the arts and heritage field. I am excited to contribute to meaningful cultural work that inspires, connects, and empowers the communities it serves.