The Road Less Travelled

The Battles Behind the Mask

In a world that glorifies hustle and perfection, many youths face silent battles with anxiety, depression, self-harm, and burnout. This honest and heartfelt session features speakers who have navigated these valleys — not just surviving, but finding ways to thrive.

Through raw stories and lived experiences, the session explores the weight of stress culture, the pressure to fit in, and the hidden cost of always appearing “okay.” Amid the struggles, participants discover strength in vulnerability, in community, and in the courage to ask for help. This session anchors on the power of growing through challenges.

Rurusama

[Social Media] Body image & public criticisms

Rurusama is a popular cosplayer and digital creator whose vibrant presence online has inspired a global fanbase. Behind the costumes, she has faced harsh criticism, body shaming, and online hate. Despite receiving death threats and cruel comments, Rurusama chose not to retreat. Instead, she found strength in self-acceptance and continued doing what she loves. Her story is one of resilience — how she protects her mental well-being, sets boundaries in a digital world, and reclaims her self-worth amidst the noise of public judgment.

Goh Jiang Hong Francis

High expectations

Francis is a budding social worker with SHINE Children and Youth Services, and works with the backbone team at grovve at *SCAPE, supporting youth through their unseen struggles. Being in the children and youth sector reminds him that behind every smile can be a silent battle — and that early guidance can make a lasting difference. He believes that nurturing young people today not only plants seeds for their growth but also equips them with the resilience and support to weather life’s challenges and emerge stronger.

Danial Tang

Me and We

Danial is an aspiring social worker driven by a passion for youth and community development. Shaped by a challenging upbringing, he understands the weight of silent struggles and the difference a safe, understanding space can make. His work is grounded in creating environments where young people feel seen, supported, and empowered — helping them find the confidence and purpose to grow through challenges and thrive beyond them.

Nur Khairunisa Ngaiman

Principal Case Manager and Team Lead from CHAT – Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health

Nur Khairunisa Ngaiman is a Principal Case Manager and Team Lead at CHAT – Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health (Established in 2009 by Institute of Mental Health under Singapore’s Ministry of Health. With more than a decade of experience, she champions youth-friendly mental health services and co-authors research advancing evidence-based interventions. Currently, she leads a trial on Solution-Focus Brief Therapy for young people, reflecting her commitment to compassionate, accessible care and empowering youths to overcome mental health challenges.