For nearly 20 years, Bernice built her career in the wholesale retail industry, working in human resources. It was stable, familiar—and by many measures, successful. But over time, a quiet question surfaced: could she be doing something more meaningful?
That question led her to explore the social service sector and eventually to the Diploma in Social Services at Hua Mei Training Academy Ltd.
Stepping into a new field came with uncertainties, but the programme gave her both direction and confidence. “The community attachments made a real difference,” she recalled. “They gave me the chance to experience the work firsthand.”
The transition required courage. It meant leaving behind a familiar industry and a higher salary—something that surprised some of her friends. At home, however, she found unwavering support.
“I have absolutely no regrets,” Bernice said. “With Singapore’s rapidly ageing population… there is so much meaningful work to be done.”
Today, she has found a renewed purpose in her second career in community care.