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Pay-It-Forward (PIF) 2026 Workshop 1: Growth, Resilience, and Real Stories

The PIF Mentorship Programme recently brought together 25 mentees and 30 mentors for a morning of meaningful conversations, self-reflection, and shared learning through a Growth and Resilience Workshop on 9th May 2026.


Designed to encourage participants to navigate challenges with greater confidence and authenticity, the session featured an interactive workshop by Growthbeans, followed by an inspiring Human Library segment where mentors shared personal stories of growth, resilience and career journeys.


Beantastic Workshop by Growthbeans


The session began with Beantastic, a peer-led card game facilitated by Growthbeans.


Dylen from Growthbeans introduced participants to the stress process and different coping responses before guiding mentors and mentees through the game in their respective tribes (groups). Through guided play, participants reflected on their own experiences, built empathy for others and explored ways to strengthen resilience.



By turning stressful situations into shared and meaningful conversations, the game created a safe space for participants to better understand how they respond to challenges in authentic contexts. Mentees and mentors were able to tap into collective wisdom, exchange coping strategies and support one another through shared experiences.


The session concluded with reflections on the coping mechanisms participants commonly rely on, strategies they were willing to explore and new perspectives gained from their peers.


Human Library with PIF Mentors


The Human Library segment featured four mentors who generously shared their personal stories, career journeys and lessons learned through overcoming challenges and embracing uncertainty.


Image of PIF Mentor Human Library Speakers from left to right: Naomi Lizaso, Wong Ruen Qing, Cadence Cheng and Rachel Goh
Image of PIF Mentor Human Library Speakers from left to right: Naomi Lizaso, Wong Ruen Qing, Cadence Cheng and Rachel Goh

Key takeaways from the Human Library include: 


  1. Rachel, Associate Director, APAC Tenant Rep at Cushman & Wakefield, spoke about the importance of finding the confidence to claim one's seat and own one's voice through overcoming bias and fiercely setting boundaries in male-dominated environments.

  2. Cadence, a trainer, coach and entrepreneur, shared the mindset needed to chase one’s dreams and to stay resilient by adopting a growth mindset, especially when things do not go according to plan. 

  3. Naomi, an English teacher at an international school, shared how moments of uncertainty, self-doubt and burnout reshaped her perspectives on success, confidence and personal growth. Naomi highlighted that clarity often comes through action rather than waiting for certainty. 

  4. Ruen Qing, a landscape architect and adjunct lecturer at NUS, spoke about how transformation, curiosity, experimentation and trust in the unknown become possible when individuals believe in themselves. Ruen Qing reminded participants that taking risks do not always require bold, life-changing decisions and that growth can begin with small steps taken consistently.


When asked what motivates her, she shared that it is the courage to keep pushing forward, especially when faced with fear. Her key takeaway encouraged participants to invest time in discovering what truly excites them while remaining open to different people, communities and perspectives.


Reflections and Closing


The afternoon concluded with a period of reflection, where participants were encouraged to think about how they respond to challenges, the support systems they can lean on and the small but meaningful steps they can take towards personal and professional growth.

From exploring personal coping strategies through play to hearing authentic stories of resilience and growth, participants left with new perspectives, practical insights, and a deeper appreciation for the power of community.


The session served as a timely reminder that growth is rarely a linear journey. Whether navigating uncertainty, overcoming challenges or pursuing new opportunities, having the courage to take the next step and strong community support can make all the difference.




Community partners: IWF, ITE College

Anchor Partner: Ernst & Young (EY) Singapore

Programme Partner: Growthbeans



Editor: Nyx Chong



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