Legacy of Giving Charity Gala Raises Funds for 3 Community Causes

The Legacy of Giving Charity Gala, held on 25th May 2024 at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, was a heartfelt tribute to the enduring spirit of generosity championed by Ms. Jennie Chua. Celebrating both Ms. Jennie Chua’s unwavering, lifelong commitment to philanthropy and her 80th birthday, the gala successfully raised funds for programs aimed at uplifting the lives of many needful individuals, vulnerable families, and underserved children and youths in our community.

Gilbert Madhavan, General Manager of One Farrer Hotel, served as the Chairman of the organising committee. “It was the first time we came together as volunteers to celebrate the spirit of giving, which Ms. Jennie Chua has been championing all her life. We felt it would speak volumes to organise a dinner for the causes she cares the most about: the community, the elderly, and the children,” said Madhavan. The three beneficiaries of the Legacy of Giving Charity Gala are Community Chest (CC), Woodlands Health Fund Limited (WHFL), and The Business Times Budding Artists Fund (BT BAF).

The evening began with a captivating performance by the Primary Dance Team from Singapore Chinese Girls’ School (SCGS), comprising talented students from Primary 3. Dancing to ‘A Million Dreams,’ the performance was a poignant tribute by Ms. Jennie Chua’s alma mater, reflecting her contributions to the school as student and as chairman.

The evening’s culinary marvel was specially curated by Lynn Yeow De-Vito, thanks to the collaboration of chefs from several Michelin-starred restaurants who generously lent their expertise to support the cause. Culinary icons included Singapore’s food ambassador Violet Oon; Julien Royer of Odette; Cheung Siu Kong of Summer Pavilion; Kirk Westaway of JAAN; Matteo Ponti of Braci; and the Singapore Pastry Alliance. Their exquisite creations delighted the guests with a combination of delectable flavours designed to elevate one another.

The entertainment lineup featured performances from celebrated artists who came together to support this cause. Singaporean artist Kit Chan delivered a soulful rendition of her hit song “Home,” while Indonesian singer and America’s Got Talent finalist Putri Ariani and 15-year-old Singaporean whistling sensation Lim Jing Rui captivated the audience with their solo acts. The evening also featured a mesmerising performance by Wu Zhengdan and Wei Baohua of the Guangdong Acrobatic Arts Theatre. The creative and musical direction by Jeremiah Choy and Lim Sek, respectively, ensured a lasting programme for the ages.

Adding to the star-studded affair, homegrown talent Dick Lee, who attended as a guest, took to the stage upon popular request. His renditions of “Fried Rice Paradise” and “Jennie,” a personalised version of “Tammy” by Debbie Reynolds, added a touch of nostalgia and humor. Lee’s performance not only completed the evening’s dinner but also highlighted Ms. Chua’s achievements in all facets of her life with his trademark wit.

The Legacy of Giving Charity Gala was a resounding success, exemplifying the power of community and the impact of philanthropy. The collective efforts of all involved, from performers to chefs, underscored the shared commitment to uplifting those in need and celebrated the extraordinary legacy of Ms. Jennie Chua.

Madhavan expressed his gratitude, saying, “We would like to thank everyone for generously coming forward to truly epitomise the spirit of giving, starting with the legend herself, Ms. Jennie Chua.”

The Legacy of Giving also held both live and silent auctions for fundraising during the dinner, thanks to the generous donations and sponsorships of individuals and organisations. The Legacy of Giving Charity Gala raised $3,518,000 on the night of the dinner.