Singapore, May 27, 2023 – The RICE Company Ltd (TRCL) is pleased to announce the launch of Souljourn 2.0, a transformative fundraising project taking place in September. With a remarkable legacy of impacting over 22,000 under-served children and youth in the arts and culture sectors, the Business Times Budding Artists Fund (BT BAF) continues to pave the way for young artists to pursue their dreams.
Souljourn 2.0 serves as a fundraising project for the alumni to generate funds as a form of paying it forward with their artistic abilities and offering them a platform to showcase their talents. TRCL is a second home for these individuals who have been part of the BT BAF programmes since their formative years. It is an opportunity for them to come together, learn, express their experiences through art, and give back to the fund.
Vishnucharan Naidu S/O Vijayan, 28, Creative Director of Souljourn 2.0, emphasises the significance of this production, “Souljourn 2.0 is a tapestry of stories, weaving together the diverse journeys of individuals, both triumphant and arduous. Through the power of art, we aspire to unite hearts and souls, igniting a collective spark of inspiration that transcends barriers and fosters a deep sense of connection. It is a celebration of the human experience, where every story finds its place, reminding us of the transformative and unifying force of the arts.”
The production of Souljourn 2.0, a captivating showcase of authentic experiences, will bring to life the inspiring journeys of individuals who have benefited from BT BAF. This exceptional production aims to share stories of triumph, resilience, and personal growth, igniting thought-provoking conversations. Viewers will be able to empathize with the lives and experiences of these individuals, fostering a sense of connection and solidarity. By delving into the challenges and triumphs faced by these individuals, the production aims to deepen the audience’s understanding of their journeys, while providing an avenue for self-reflection and collective growth.
Guru Simmar S/O Gunasekaran, 28, Producer of Souljourn 2.0, adds, “Being part of this programme has been immensely beneficial to me. It ignited my interest in arts management, leading me to pursue studies in this field at NAFA. BT BAF has been instrumental in shaping my career trajectory and has brought me full circle, back to the very places that originally sparked my passion for the arts. It heartens me to see that the alumni of this programme are returning to contribute to this project in various capacities, united by a shared interest in giving back to the place where we all gained our initial spark. It’s a testament to the profound impact this programme has had on our lives and the strong sense of community it has fostered.”
To celebrate the launch of Souljourn 2.0, a special launch party will be held on Friday, May 26. Alumni involved in the production will have the opportunity to meet and express their gratitude to the donors, Standard Chartered Bank, OCBC Bank, and Chemical Industries (Far East) Limited, who have generously supported their artistic endeavours. The launch party will take place from 5 to 7pm, marking the beginning of this exceptional event that brings stories of hope, determination, and artistic talent to life on stage.