Faith Ang
NTUC Scholarship
Now: Bachelor of Science in Crime and Security Science, University College London, Year 2
From: Raffles Institution
Through firsthand encounters and heartfelt conversations, NTUC scholar Faith Ang, a second-year Crime and Security Science at University College London discovered the realities of workers—and how she can play a role in supporting them.
Stepping Outside Her Comfort Zone Led to Self-discovery
Before university, I made a deliberate choice to take on part-time jobs to meet people from different walks of life. I worked as a promoter in a supermarket and packed food for airline flights in a cold kitchen. These experiences strengthened my communication skills and broadened my perspective through daily interactions with co-workers and customers.
I had many conversations with my co-workers, particularly the elderly workers in supermarkets. One shared with me how she had to take on extra shifts to cope with the rising cost of living. In the cold kitchen, standing on my feet for seven hours cutting cucumbers made me acutely aware of the physical demands of such work. These were realities I had previously understood intellectually, but only truly grasped through firsthand experience.
It also made me realise I wanted to play a part in supporting workers facing life’s challenges. When I came across the NTUC Scholarship, I felt that it strongly aligned my aspirations, a platform for worker advocacy and ample opportunities for personal growth and development.
Inspired by the Dynamism of Advocacy Work
During my internship at NTUC, I was attached to the Food, drinks and Allied Workers Union (FDAWU), one of the organisation’s 58 affiliated unions. I shadowed different Industrial Relations Officers (IROs), sitting in on collective agreement signings, staff meetings and grievance cases, and assisted at roadshows and engagement sessions with workers.
Through these experiences, I witnessed the varied responsibilities IROs undertake to build strong relationships with union leaders, members and business leaders, while responding to workers’ needs on the ground. Ultimately, all that we do at NTUC goes towards improving workers’ wages, welfare and work prospects.
Interestingly, I observed how IROs bring their unique strengths to the table. Some are more comfortable engaging senior management, while others connect effortlessly with workers. Regardless of their styles, the IROs consistently treated stakeholders with empathy and respect even on the most challenging days.
Seeing the Impact
A highlight from my internship was Gift from the Heart, a two-day event put together by the FDAWU. For 2025, the union went beyond distributing Care Bags with groceries and vouchers by organising an appreciation meal for workers and their loved ones. Seeing the smiles on workers’ faces and their appreciation for the IROs’ efforts was a powerful reminder of why I chose to pursue this path.
Taking Lessons from Leaders Who Care
My mentor at NTUC has been incredibly nurturing and approachable, and many colleagues speak fondly of her. I had the opportunity to observe her leadership closely and saw how she led her team with sincerity, kindness and trust, while aligning everyone towards a common goal. Her leadership style is one I aspire to emulate in the future.
Her Advice: Dare to be Different
Aspiring scholars often feel pressured to follow well-trodden paths, such as pursuing corporate attachments or filling their CVs with what they think organisations are looking for. My advice to juniors would be to stay open to trying new experiences. Exploring part-time jobs helped me gain a deeper understanding of myself and where I wish to make a meaningful impact.