On Tuesday, 19 August, at the Central East Ballroom of Resorts World Sentosa, Prithpal Kaur took the stage at the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) Annual Dinner to share her remarkable journey.
Photo Courtesy of Prithpal Kaur
From overcoming financial hardships to pursuing her dreams, she spoke candidly about the impact of ISCA support and the inspiration it gave her to strive for a brighter future.
Speaking to a room of donors and fellow professionals, she thanked ISCA for helping her pursue her education despite significant family hardships and aimed to inspire students from humble backgrounds.
Facing Early Hardships
Growing up, Prithpal’s life was far from easy. Her father fought cancer while her mother was unable to work; she was burdened by worries about bills and providing for the family. “The future seemed uncertain, and dreaming about anything more felt selfish,” she said.
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Photo Courtesy of Prithpal Kaur
Even then, as a polytechnic student, grades were secondary compared to being able to afford the tuition fee. “I just wanted to get a job and start earning money for my family,” she said.
Support That Made a Difference
The turning point came when ISCA, through its bursaries and financial aid programs, helped cover her tuition.
“And your support, it didn’t just pay for my tuition, it lifted a huge weight off my shoulders.”
The assistance allowed her to dare to dream again—this time, about attending university and building a career.
While studying, she worked multiple jobs to support her family, from night shifts at McDonald’s to tutoring and assisting in photography. She even received a five-year long service award from McDonald’s while still in polytechnic.
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Taking the Leap
After she had completed polytechnic, Prithpal had a hard choice: to work and support the family or go for further education. Encouraged by lecturers, friends, and mentors alike, she applied for a scholarship and, in fact, won it.
“Someone believed in the beauty of my dreams even when I was struggling to see it myself.”
Subsequent scholarships and bursaries helped her prepare for the world, and she is now a part of the Unilever Future Leaders Programme.
Looking Ahead
Today, however, her dreams go beyond her individual attainments; she now dreams of helping others and finding purpose in work.
She also dreams of taking an opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree. This, she says, would help her deepen her skills while widening her sphere of impact.
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A Message to Donors and Students
Closing her speech, Prithpal expressed gratitude to donors who have supported students like her.
“If you’re considering giving, know that you’re not just making a donation. You are believing in a student who might be in the exact same place I was once.”
Her story depicts how struggles, with some financial aid and encouragement, can turn into occasions for students to dream, realize, and give back to society.
About ISCA Cares
Established in 2015 as part of Singapore’s 50th independence anniversary, ISCA Cares is the Institute’s social outreach initiative and holds official charity status with IPC recognition.
Through programs that support students like Prithpal and provide sustained aid to communities, it reflects the accountancy profession’s broader role in contributing to society and fostering a socially responsible, inclusive culture.
