A Young Woman’s Quiet Confidence Shakes Mountains
Name: Sonia J.
Brief bio: 21 years old; a 2023 graduate of VLCS; in part-time employment while working on her university applications.
Mountain of Fear:
As a 13-year-old teenager, Sonia just hated examinations and was really feeling dreadful about the many tests to be taken continuously just to validate her worth and academic ability in school. The fear of not scoring well added tons unto her stress level. She felt like giving up.
A different curriculum which promises self-directed learning sounded so refreshing. Having no exams was a bonus! The moment Sonia set her eyes on the colourful and rich contents of the PACEs, she said yes to VLCS. Somehow, the flock of fluttering butterflies in her stomach just faded away slowly but surely.
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7)
Mountain of Difficulty:
Sonia spent more than 8 years in VLCS, transiting from Middle School to High School student, then towards graduation. Subsequently, she stayed behind and served in school for more than 2 years. From student to staff, then to a part-time educator working with Special Needs children, Sonia spoke with rested assurance on how the many perceived difficulties had helped her grow and expand her mind.
“Mrs Liah believed greatly in me,” Sonia recalled fondly. Her eyes sparkled when she recollected the moments when she was given the opportunity to be emceeing for the school annual event, Victory Life Graduation Ceremony. “There were so many thoughts in my head, and I was very nervous about it. However, Mrs Liah took time to encourage me, helped me with the practices, corrected me on my diction and more.” Victory came when Sonia emerged and broke away from the various restrictions in her head. The experience brought her to a heightened level, which she could not have imagined at all. It was a roaring success. To Sonia, it proved to be such a worthwhile experience. Thereafter, she moved on courageously towards many first-time experiences such as puppetry, one-act playand even physical fitness. Are these all so easy? Sonia cited that, “My confidence is Christ in me!” This young lady carried on speaking of all the good traits and life skills she acquired during her VLCS journey. The ability to multi-task, getting things done with great tenacity, and building up resilience are keys to her future successful living. Nonetheless, grateful Sonia has not forgotten other supervisors who had helped her through. A big thank you goes to Mrs Lim and Mr Karlo too.
Sonia also mentioned the much-valued friendships she still holds dearly. Many of her school peers are already overseas, but she still makes time for the closely-knit circle of young women in Singapore. She tries her best to meet up and to connect regularly. “No one else outside school could possibly understand our less-travelled educational journey. I value those conventions, meetings and overseas trips we had together as both students and staff all together. The spirit of camaraderie is simply so wonderful. Both Mr Joel and Ms Rebecca are my peers and my dependable partners at work. They are always there for me.”
Mountain of Disappointment:
Since VLCS graduation, Sonia has been working diligently in finding her next goal post towards tertiary education. She expresses her passion and desire to work with more people in social work and counselling. However, she was disappointed when she was not granted admission for her first university application. Undaunted, she speaks with certainty that God surely has a greater plan for her, and she rebounded to her steady stance.
Little did she know that this perceived stumble brought her back to VLCS with another purpose. In September 2025, Sonia was offered a placement in school to lend support to students with learning challenges. Sonia hears God, and she know when He speaks. “And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.” (Isaiah 30:21)
At the Peak with Compassion:
Sonia, endowed with a full head of thick, black, curly hair, stood tall and elegant at the café. Biting into her chocolate muffin, Sonia expressed her gratefulness towards others. She confessed that it was not easy working with both students and parents initially. However, as she pressed on, she realized that the best things in life do come with patience. Building up rapport and seeing the transformation in the students bring Sonia much joy. It also opened her eyes of understanding when working with others. We do not know how God works, but for sure He is working on Sonia.
“I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35)
Towards Twin Peaks:
There is nothing more permanent than change. Sonia remains hopeful for the future. Currently, she is residing in Singapore and remains available for her loving family. A mountain looks still on the outside. However, does a mountain really remain motionless on the ground? Science can certainly surprise us, but the truth prevails. Sonia is perceived as a strong and courageous young woman, with great potential. With God, all things are possible. Sonia, many will look up to you. You are wonderfully and fearfully made. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10)
