A Journey Marked by Loss and Resilience

In a poignant twist of fate, Elysa Chen faced tragedy during her teenage years when her father, battling cancer, passed away just as she was preparing for her Secondary 4 exams. This life-altering moment instilled in her a profound sense of responsibility, prompting her to push through the pain and continue supporting her family.

Elysa Chen: From Journalism to Politics

Fast forward to today, Elysa is now a candidate for the People's Action Party (PAP) in the upcoming General Elections, representing the Bishan-Toa Payoh Group Representation Constituency (GRC). Reflecting on her tough past, she emphasizes the importance of persevering through adversity.

A Lifelong Commitment to Service

Elysa’s journey has been anything but ordinary. Following her father's death, she juggled multiple jobs—from a tuition teacher to a hotel operator—necessitated by the loss of her family's main provider. Today, she helms CampusImpact, a charity dedicated to helping youth navigate the complexities of growing up.

Energetic and Engaged: Building Connections

Despite a busy schedule, including working at her charity, recording podcasts, and preparing for her nomination, Elysa radiates enthusiasm. Her genuine interest in people shines through, especially during her walkabouts, where she effortlessly connects with residents, recalling familiar faces and building rapport.

From the Newsroom to Community Service

Elysa’s background in journalism, particularly on the crime beat, equipped her with unique perspectives on society. Her time as a reporter was filled with intense stories and eye-opening experiences, including a tragic murder-suicide that compelled her to seek a more proactive role in societal change.

A Shift in Focus: From Reporting to Empowering

Rather than merely observing the issues, Elysa aspired to be a part of the solution. As a charity director, she feels empowered to create change rather than just report on the circumstances, giving her the chance to shape narratives alongside the children she serves.

Legacy of Care: Family as Motivation

Elysa credits her family as her anchor. Even after a whirlwind of activities, it's the small moments—like laying next to her child at the end of a long day—that remind her of the purpose behind her hard work. Her father's passing taught her to cherish life's fleeting moments.

Advocating for the Next Generation

With deep concern for children from all walks of life, Elysa aims to harness their potential and provide opportunities for growth. Her commitment to youth advocacy was solidified through her years in charity work, fostering her passion for supporting underserved communities.

Facing the Future: Balancing Power and Purpose

As she steps into the political arena, Elysa reflects on the potential changes that power may bring. She remains cautious, expressing worries that political influence could alter her core values. However, her unwavering commitment to maintaining her purpose fuels her desire to serve.

Defining Success Beyond Material Wealth

For Elysa, success is not measured by wealth but by the ability to create meaningful change. Despite living in public housing, she finds fulfillment in the love and community that surround her, believing that true success lies in the ability to give back and uplift others.