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Lim Kay Hiong

NAFA Distinguished Alumni Award

Lim Kay Hiong

Diploma in Fine Art, 1966

Profile

Born in 1947 in Shantou, China, Lim Kay Hiong developed a deep passion for art at a young age. His artistic journey began to flourish after he migrated to Singapore with his family in 1953, at the age of six. This move would deeply influence his career and cultural identity.

Immersed in a vibrant environment blending traditional Chinese culture with modern influences, Lim developed a unique artistic voice that bridged East and West. He began his formal training with traditional Chinese ink painting, a discipline requiring both technical skill and a deep appreciation of subtlety and balance. He studied under two highly respected pioneers of Singapore's art scene, Fan Chang Tien and See Hiang To, both of whom played crucial roles in the development of Singapore's cultural landscape. Their mentorship grounded Lim in the classical techniques of Chinese brushwork, calligraphy and composition, which later became hallmarks of his artistic style.

Seeking to expand his artistic horizons, Lim enrolled at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), where he studied Western painting techniques and art theory. He graduated in 1966 with a Diploma in Fine Art. This education introduced him to a broader spectrum of artistic approaches, allowing him to incorporate diverse methods and perspectives into his practice. The fusion of Eastern and Western art traditions became a defining feature of Lim’s work, contributing to its timeless appeal.

Lim's paintings are recognised for their distinctive style and evocative subject matter. His works often reflect themes rooted in oriental culture, depicting landscapes, flora and traditional scenes with a delicate balance of brushwork and colour. The subtle interplay of light and shadow, combined with his mastery of ink and watercolour techniques, captures the aesthetic richness of his heritage.

Lim’s contributions to the arts have gained recognition beyond Singapore. In 2005, he received a merit award at the First International Chinese Poetry, Calligraphy, Painting and Seal-carving Grand Exhibition held in Beijing, a prestigious event that brought together leading artists from around the world. This accolade affirmed his position as a key figure in the preservation and evolution of traditional Chinese art.

Lim’s commitment to artistic growth extended internationally in his later years. In July and August 2024, he spent two months at one of the NAFA studios in Cité Internationale des Arts, Paris, where he exchanged ideas and collaborated with fellow artists from around the world. This enriching experience broadened his artistic vision and reinforced his status as a globally engaged artist. Later that October, Lim travelled to Xiamen, China, to participate in the ASEAN-China Art Exchange, where he proudly represented Singapore’s art scene and brought greater recognition to Singaporean artists on the international stage.

Beyond his personal artistic pursuits, Lim was deeply involved in Singapore's art community. He held leadership roles in several prominent art societies including The Hua Han Art Society, The Society of Chinese Artists and the Federation of Art Societies (Singapore). He had also served as a board member of NAFA, where he helped guide the institution's development and supported emerging artists. He was well-liked by his students, who admired him not only for his artistry but also for his mentorship and generosity.

Sadly, Lim passed away in January 2025, leaving behind a legacy cherished by the Singapore art community and beyond. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, NAFA honours him posthumously with a Distinguished Alumni Award. His passing is widely regarded as a profound loss to Singapore’s art scene, where his influence as an artist and mentor continues to inspire future generations.

About the Award

This award is conferred on established NAFA alumni who have attained significant success in their professional careers or made meaningful contributions to the community. It honours their lifetime achievements, continued growth, and influence within the local and international arts sectors.

This award was presented for the first time in 2009.

Professor Chung Chen Sun

NAFA Distinguished Alumni Award

Professor Chung Chen Sun

Diploma in Fine Art, 1955

Profile

Professor Chung Chen Sun was a renowned artist and art educator born in 1935 in Melaka, Malaysia. His ancestry dates back to Meixian County in Guangdong Province, China. Graduated from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts in 1955 with a Diploma in Fine Art, Professor Chung later earned a Master of Public Administration in 1986 from University of San Francisco, USA.

In 1967, Professor Chung founded the Malaysian Institute of Art and subsequently established MSC International College (Media, Art and Design), the International Modern Art and Design College of Yunnan University, the International Modern Art and Design College of Inner Mongolian Normal University, and the Chen Sun International Modern Art and Design College of Hunan Zhuzhou Yandi University. His philosophy in art education contributed to the development of modern art and design education in Malaysia and China. He was widely recognised as the Father of Malaysian Modern Art Education for the numerous art schools which he founded.

Throughout his career, Professor Chung actively promoted international exchange in arts education. He held leadership roles in the Asia Pacific Art Education Association and, in 1982, co-founded the International Contemporary Ink Painting Association, serving as the President for eight years. During this time, he dedicated himself to the modernisation of Chinese ink painting. He was also President of the Malaysian Chinese Cultural Society for 15 years, where he worked tirelessly to promote the Malaysian Chinese culture development and international exchanges.

Rooted in both Chinese and Western art history, Professor Chung drew deep inspiration from Taoist philosophy, as well as Confucian and Buddhist teachings. Guided by the belief that “traveling thousands of miles is better than reading thousands of books,” he saw art as a lifelong journey of exploration and expression to reflect a pursuit of life at its purest and most beautiful.

His works were showcased in over 20 countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, India, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, France, Holland, Belgium, Germany, Brazil, Australia and New Zealand. He also held more than 20 solo art exhibitions both locally and abroad. In 2007, Professor Chung donated over 100 pieces of artwork and 1,000 collectibles to Yunnan Province. In recognition of his contributions, Yunnan University established the Chung Chen Sun Art Museum, the first university museum in China named after a living artist. In 2011, the Chung Chen Sun Art Museum in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, was established. His collection of works is now housed at various museums, galleries, government agencies, enterprises and private collectors.

Among his many accolades were the Pingat Pangkuan Negara (PPN) awarded by the King of Malaysia in 1977, the Cultural and Art Highest Honour Award from Taiwan in 1984, and he was selected for the International Celebrity Collection, which was published in Cambridge, UK, in 1985. He was named one of the Ten Outstanding Hakka Personalities of the World and later recognised as one of the 118 Distinguished Hakka Individuals since the Tang Dynasty. In 1995, he received top distinctions in calligraphy and painting from cultural institutions in Taiwan.

His accomplishment in art education and the reinvention of ink paintings were stemmed from his deep artistic mastery. His vision, thought, insight and dedication earned him a place in the history of art. As Taiwanese art critic Professor Luo Qing noted, “From the sketch and freehand brushwork in the earlier period, his style has been evolving, reflecting aesthetics of the East and the West. On the solid foundation of tradition is built a mind that sets off to innovate. This is what a Master of Art is about. Indeed, this is a rare accomplishment anywhere in the world.” Similarly, renowned Chinese art critic Professor Shao Da Zhen remarked that his work was “progressive in nature, in that it enlightens and inspires a large number of artists in the East, including those in China." For his significant contributions in his artistic practice, Professor Chung has also been honoured with the title Father of Malaysian Contemporary Ink Painting.

Professor Chung passed away in 2024. With a legacy that spans continents and generations, his influence continues to shape the world of art and education.  NAFA is proud to posthumously confer upon him the Distinguished Alumni Award.

About the Award

This award is conferred on established NAFA alumni who have attained significant success in their professional careers or made meaningful contributions to the community. It honours their lifetime achievements, continued growth, and influence within the local and international arts sectors.

This award was presented for the first time in 2009.

Chong Teck Seng Oliver

NAFA Distinguished Alumni Award

Chong Teck Seng Oliver

Diploma in Interior Design, 1999

Profile

Oliver Chong is a multi-award-winning playwright, director, actor, puppeteer and designer. He holds the record for the most Straits Times Life! Theatre Awards nominations, 30 across diverse categories, and has won six times, including Best Director, Best Actor, Best Set Design, Best Original Script, and Best Production of the Year.

Since joining The Finger Players in 2004, Chong has played a pivotal role in transforming the puppetry landscape in Singapore. Initially a Resident Director, he became part of the company’s core creative leadership in 2018 and was appointed the Artistic Director in 2023. Under his artistic direction, The Finger Players has deepened its role as a centre for puppetry research and development.

He is best known for two acclaimed trilogies: his solo series—Roots, A Fiend’s Diary, and Every Brilliant Thing, and the Citizen trilogyCitizen Pig, Citizen Dog and Citizen X. These works defined his distinctive theatrical language: allegorical, darkly humorous, emotionally precise and visually inventive. His minimalist compositions and puppetry-inflected imagery often explore tensions between public systems and private memory.

His productions have toured widely, with invitations to major festivals across Asia, Europe, and Australasia. Notably, Animal Farm (SIFA 2025) featured 13 life-sized puppets and challenged perceptions of puppetry as merely child-focused, reframing it as a bold political medium. Signature works such as Time Between Us, Blood and Rose Ensemble, and Roots have garnered acclaim in Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and New Zealand, underscoring the enduring impact of his vision.

Committed to advancing puppetry as a contemporary art form, Chong champions interdisciplinary innovation aligned with The Finger Players’ mission. He has led masterclasses in puppetry, playwriting, directing, acting and devising for more than 70 companies, schools, and institutions across Singapore, including Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, LASALLE College of the Arts and the Intercultural Theatre Institute. His regional and international engagements include collaborative masterclasses with Thailand’s Joe Louis Theatre Company, Cambodia’s Sovanna Phum Art Association and Italy’s La Casa Di Meneghino—reflecting his commitment to knowledge-sharing and cultural exchange.

Since 2014, he has mentored over 50 active theatre practitioners through The Finger Players’ advanced masterclass, an intensive, process-driven programme fostering skill-building, critical inquiry and sustainable artistic growth.

Through the Reach Out! programme, Chong has brought puppetry and theatre to over 25,000 students and community members annually. The Finger Players partners with schools, eldercare homes, special needs organisations, and community groups, broadening access to the arts through play, empathy, and cultural dialogue.

His published plays, including Roots, The Book of Living and Dying, I’m Just A Piano Teacher, and Cat, Lost & Found, capture the breadth of his vision and serve as key texts in contemporary Singaporean theatre. Writing about his stagecraft has allowed Chong to influence a wider circle of students, educators and artists.

A creator, thinker and chronicler of the artform, Chong continues to shape generations of artists and audiences, bridging art, education and civic imagination with a quietly radical vision of theatre.

About the Award

This award is conferred on established NAFA alumni who have attained significant success in their professional careers or made meaningful contributions to the community. It honours their lifetime achievements, continued growth, and influence within the local and international arts sectors.

This award was presented for the first time in 2009.

Kseniia Vokhmianina

NAFA Young Alumni Medal

Kseniia Vokhmianina

Diploma in Music Performance, 2011
Bachelor of Music (Honours), 2013

Profile

Praised for her “artistry of the highest order” by The Straits Times and “maturity of musicianship and virtuosity” by Pianomania, Ukrainian-born pianist Kseniia Vokhmianina is a renowned concerto soloist, recitalist, and chamber musician. She has performed at notable venues including Seoul Arts Centre (South Korea), Auditorium Olivier Messiaen (France), Institut Supérieur de Musique et de Pédagogie (Belgium), Mendelssohn-Haus Leipzig and Schumannhaus Bonn (Germany), Yunduan-Tianfu Music Hall (China), Guarnerius Concert Hall (Serbia), and Österreichisches Kulturforum and Notre-Dame de Sion Istanbul (Turkey).

Kseniia began her musical training at a young age in Ukraine. At 18, she received the Lee Foundation Scholarship to pursue a Diploma in Music Performance at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), followed by a Bachelor of Music (Honours), conferred by the Royal College of Music (UK) under Professor Boris Kraljevic. She graduated with the Best Graduate (Degree) Award and the Embassy of Peru Award. She later pursued a Master of Arts (MA) in Music at H.S. Skovoroda Kharkiv National Pedagogical University (Ukraine) and furthered her studies at the Zurich University of the Arts (Switzerland).

A prize winner at numerous international piano competitions held in France, Australia, Poland, Italy, Serbia, Indonesia, Singapore and Germany, Kseniia has performed at several music festivals including Convivium Musicum (Serbia), International Piano Festival (Vietnam), George Town Festival (Malaysia), International Holland Music Sessions (Netherlands) and the Pablo Casals Festival (France). In 2021, she was named the First Place Winner in the Professional Musicians Category for Romantic Music at the American Protégé International Music Competition. That same year, she opened the 27th edition of the Singapore International Piano Festival “with a grand manner of pianism in the tradition of her birthplace’s classical greats, such as Shura Cherkassky, Emil Gilels and Sviatoslav Richter” (Chang Tou Liang, The Straits Times, 8 June 2021).

Kseniia made her debut as a concerto soloist at the age of eight and has since performed with orchestras such as the Kaunas Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra (Lithuania) and the Sichuan Symphony Orchestra (China). A versatile collaborative pianist, she frequently tours with international artists. Her collaboration with Roberto Álvarez has resulted in the acclaimed album The Whirlwind Within. In 2025, the duo performed a series of concerts during their tour in New Zealand and Australia.

Beyond performance, Kseniia is a committed educator. She has taught at the School of the Arts (SOTA), Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music (NUS), and now holds the roles of Piano Teacher and Music Programme Director at Madison Academy of Music. She frequently gives masterclasses worldwide, including at the Princess Galyani Vadhana Institute of Music (Thailand) and Symphonia Music (New Zealand), and often serves as a jury member at international piano competitions. Since 2018, she has been President of the World Piano Teachers Association (Singapore Affiliate).

About the Award

This award honours the achievements of NAFA alumni under the age of 40 who have demonstrated exceptional promise in the early stages of their careers. It is accorded to those who exemplify artistic excellence, leadership, and a deep commitment to their communities and professions, while maintaining strong ties with their alma mater.

2025 marks the inaugural presentation of this award.

Goh Shou Yi

NAFA Young Alumni Medal

Goh Shou Yi

Diploma in Dance, 2010

Profile

Goh Shou Yi is a movement artist, choreographer and educator whose artistic journey is deeply rooted in exploring the body's relationship with society. His curiosity about how sociocultural forces shape the body’s physical state has led him to explore the unique artistic language that navigates the nuances of embodiment and human connection.

Goh’s passion for dance began early, through the Young Artists Performers Project under Odyssey Dance Theatre (ODT). Early engagement with local and international artists sparked a commitment to professional training that continued at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) School of Dance, with the support of National Arts Council’s Georgette Chen Arts Scholarship. As a student, he joined and performed regularly with The Human Expression (T.H.E.) Second Company and later took part in “As It Fades” at the 2011 Singapore Arts Festival, deepening his engagement with contemporary dance.

With the support of a National Arts Council Arts Scholarship, Goh pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance at the State University of New York (SUNY) Purchase College. His training extended beyond New York to Europe, where he crossed paths with internationally renowned artists. From technique classes to artistic exchanges and conversations, these experiences broadened his perspective on global contemporary dance practices. Together, they were pivotal in shaping his voice as a dance artist. In recognition of Goh’s collaborative efforts both locally and abroad, Lianhe Zaobao named him the “Rising Star to Watch” (2015 艺术新星·照耀未来星空, 1 Jan 2015).

As a choreographer and performer, Goh’s works have toured regionally and internationally, including the Seoul Performing Arts Festival, Gothenburg Fringe Festival, New Dance for Asia International Festival, Esplanade’s da:ns Festival and cont·act Contemporary Dance Festival. His collaborations include “--:--” with Korean choreographer Kim Hwan Hee which premiered in Seoul and toured Singapore and Selangor, “Re: a Line” with Zhuo Zihao (Singapore) in Gothenburg and Seoul, “NAKA” with Mai Kubota (Japan) in Singapore and Seoul, “Moon Playlist” with Raymond Liew Jin Pin (Malaysia) and Eng Kai Er (Singapore) in Hamburg, and “Nuance” with Independent Thai Dancers in Bangkok. He has also created commissioned works for T.H.E Second Company, Deca Dance Co, and NAFA School of Dance and School of Interdisciplinary Arts.

Goh’s artistic exploration extends beyond dance into interdisciplinary collaborations across theatre, music, film, and fashion. He has collaborated with long-time creative partners Rei Poh and Ng Jing, as well as esteemed companies such as Drama Box, The Necessary Stage, Toy Factory and Siong Leng Musical Association, and artists including Liu Xiao Yi, Jalyn Han, Tan Ngiap Heng and Max Tan.

Since 2013, Goh has been lecturing at NAFA’s School of Dance. A dedicated educator, he also mentors young dancers and conducting workshops on multiple platforms. He contributes dance reviews to Lianhe Zaobao from time to time, sharing practitioner insights to the wider public.

For Goh, movement is a universal language—one that continues to drive his mission of fostering connection, empathy and trust through various artistic exchanges.

About the Award

This award honours the achievements of NAFA alumni under the age of 40 who have demonstrated exceptional promise in the early stages of their careers. It is accorded to those who exemplify artistic excellence, leadership, and a deep commitment to their communities and professions, while maintaining strong ties with their alma mater.

2025 marks the inaugural presentation of this award.

Loi Xin Zhe Hubert

NAFA Young Alumni Medal

Loi Xin Zhe Hubert

Diploma In Fine Art, 2016

Profile

Hubert Loi is a design strategist and educator who thrives on making innovation meaningful, purposeful and relatable. With a practice that transverses the worlds of art and design, he decodes complex needs, nuances and narratives to help organisations see differently, think deeply and design with intention. By bridging strategy, systems and storytelling, he co-designs solutions that are future-focused and ready for the real-world.

Spanning across B2C, B2B and B2G landscapes, Loi navigates the convergence of design, business, UX research, innovation and digital transformation. Whether in boardrooms or classrooms, innovation initiatives or co-creation sessions, he enables organisations to embrace change and unlock the next phase through human-centred design, futures thinking and strategic foresight. Loi’s journey is also marked by key leadership in cross-disciplinary design initiatives, strategic innovation efforts and collaborative engagements with diverse stakeholders. He has contributed to public design dialogues through talks, exhibitions and panels, including showcasing his art across Asia and Singapore Art Week.

In addition to his core professional work, Loi champions the expanded role of creativity—not just as a means of expression, but as a catalyst for systems change. As design continues to evolve, he offers thought leadership in strategic design and innovation, mentoring students across Institutes of Higher Learning and universities to explore the edges of design practice. His work aims to embed art and design into adjacent fields such as technology, business, education and beyond where creative thinking can unlock new approaches to complex and real-world challenges. With a passion in community, education and designing for good, Loi serves as an industry mentor at Halogen Foundation and STEAMunity, guiding young talent. He is also a member of the Executive Committee of the NTU ADM Alumni Association and the NAFA Design and Media Alumni Chapter, where he helps create spaces for creatives to grow, connect and thrive.

Beyond pixels and prints, Loi continues to nurture his personal art practices. For him, art and design are not endpoints but evolving processes that include ways of questioning, connecting and constructing meaning. His works explore themes of connection, adaptability and continuity, often shaped by modular systems and the invisible forces that bind people, environments and ideas. They serve as both personal expressions and conceptual provocations, reimagining what creative expression can be in a world of constant flux.

Loi graduated with a Diploma in Fine Art with Distinction from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) and later earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Highest Distinction) in Design Art with a Minor in Art History from Nanyang Technological University (NTU). This dual grounding in both critical art theory and strategic design allows him to move seamlessly across disciplines, combining analytical rigour with creative intuition. In recognition of his achievements, Loi was awarded the NAFA Scholarship Award and Tan Chay Bing Merit Award. At NTU, he received the Columbia Jireh Scholarship, Koh Boon Hwee Scholars Award Grant, Dean’s List and CoLab4Good Service to Society Award for academic excellence and community impact.

At his core, Loi’s approach is grounded in collaboration and curiosity. Whether building brands, shaping strategies or creating new frameworks of value, his goal is to design with impact and to empower others to do the same, with intention, imagination and integrity.

About the Award

This award honours the achievements of NAFA alumni under the age of 40 who have demonstrated exceptional promise in the early stages of their careers. It is accorded to those who exemplify artistic excellence, leadership, and a deep commitment to their communities and professions, while maintaining strong ties with their alma mater.

2025 marks the inaugural presentation of this award.

Koh Yu Jie

The Ngee Ann Kongsi Gold Medal (Degree)

Koh Yu Jie | Bachelor of Music (Honours)

Profile

Awards and Achievements

  • 2024, Silver Award (Erhu Advanced Professional Category – Other Music Conservatories), Nanyang International Music Competition 2024, Singapore
  • 2024, 2nd Prize (Ensemble B Category), Singapore Chinese Music Competition 2024
  • 2023, Silver Award (Erhu Senior Professional Category), Nanyang International Music Competition 2023, Singapore
  • AY2023/2024 & AY2024/2025, OCBC Local Undergraduate Scholarship
  • 2023, NAFA Chairman Award
  • 2023, Best Graduate Award, Diploma in Music
  • NAFA Talent Development Programme AY2021/2022 enrollee

Performance Roles

  • 2025, Erhu musician, The TENG Ensemble
  • 2025, Soloist (erhu), Dance Ensemble Singapore “Intersections”
  • 2023, Soloist for erhu concerto “Lord of Western Qin” accompanied by SCO, SNYCO 20th Anniversary Concert “Legacy”

Events & Activities

  • 2020-2025, Concertmaster, NAFA Chinese Orchestra
  • 2020-2025, Student Representative, NAFA School of Music
  • 2019 – present, Co-concertmaster, Singapore National Youth Chinese Orchestra
About the Award

The Ngee Ann Kongsi Gold Medal (Degree) is presented each year to the most outstanding degree graduate at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. The medal recognises the all-round achievements and attributes of the recipient including strong academic performance, discipline, diligence and leadership qualities, as well as contributions towards the class, Academy and arts community.

The medal is funded by The Ngee Ann Kongsi, a foundation that is actively involved in educational, cultural and welfare activities in Singapore. The award was presented for the first time in 2023.

Low Kien Bing

The Ngee Ann Kongsi Gold Medal (Diploma)

Low Kien Bing | Diploma in Theatre (Mandarin Drama)

Profile

Awards and Achievements

  • Top Scorer for Acting and Contextual Studies 5 (Applied Theatre) (DTH3020), AY2024/2025
  • Dean’s List Award AY2023/2024 Semester 2
  • Top Scorer for Movement 4 (Asian Forms) (DTH2230), AY2023/2024
  • Top Scorer for Movement 3 (Ensemble and Chorus) (DTH2130), AY2023/2024
  • Dean’s List Award AY2022/2023 Semester 2
  • Dean’s List Award AY2022/2023 Semester 1
  • AY2022/2023 NAFA Entry Merit Award

Key Events & Activities

  • 2024, Emcee and Organiser, NAFA Chinese Society Mid-Autumn Gala (2024)
  • 2023, Stage Manager, A Doll’s House, NAFA
  • 2023, Youth Coordinator, Camp-O, Drama Box
  • 2023 and 2024, Student Leader, NAFA Open House
  • 2023 and 2024, Student Leader, NAFA Orientation
  • 2023, Front-of-House & Media Assistant, I Am Your Father, production by Focus Theatre Singapore

Performance roles

  • 2025, Actor, Fake performance is (real) performance, NAFA x Emergency Stairs
  • 2025, Actor, At This Moment, NAFA x Artist in Residency
  • 2024, Actor, The Blue Bird, NAFA x Asia Theatre Education Centre
  • 2024, Dancer, Winds of Change, Sheng Hong Arts Institute, Singapore
  • 2024, Dance, The Princess of Prambanan, NAFA x Indonesia Institute of the Arts, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
  • 2024, Stage Manager, The Tempest, NAFA
  • 2024, Director, Salome, NAFA
  • 2023, Actor, Dragon Robe, PingSheh Beijing Opera Association, Singapore
  • 2023, Actor, The Legend of The Monkey King, Singapore Focus Theatre
  • 2023, Set Designer, Silly Little Girl And The Funny Old Tree, NAFA
About the Award

The Ngee Ann Kongsi Gold Medal (Diploma) is presented each year to the most outstanding diploma graduate at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. The medal recognises the all-round achievements and attributes of the recipient including strong academic performance, discipline, diligence and leadership qualities, as well as contributions towards the class, Academy and arts community.

The medal is funded by The Ngee Ann Kongsi, a foundation that is actively involved in educational, cultural and welfare activities in Singapore. The award was presented for the first time in 2015.

Ng Jia Xi

Embassy of Peru Award

Ng Jia Xi | Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Fine Art

Profile

Awards and Achievements

  • 2025, Lim Ai Fang Art Prize, NAFA Fine Art Graduating Awards
  • 2025, Best Studentship Award, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Fine Art, NAFA
  • AY2024/2025, NAFA Scholarship (Degree)
  • AY2023/2024, NAFA Scholarship (Degree)
  • NAFA Talent Development Programme AY2022/2023 enrollee

Exhibitions & Residencies

  • 2025, Exhibitor, The Grad Expectations 2025, NAFA, Singapore
  • 2025, Exhibitor, Downsizing: Menjadi, NAFA, Singapore
  • 2025, Exhibitor, FRAGMENTS, Hopsfield Art Gallery, Singapore
  • 2025, Performer, Performative Practices Lab, Singapore Art Week
  • 2024, Artist in Residency, Studio Plesungan, Indonesia
  • 2024, Exhibitor, NAFA x UAL Exhibition, Chelsea College of Arts, University of Arts London
  • 2023, Exhibitor, Stories of Care, Assisi Hospice, Singapore
  • 2023, Exhibitor, Sonder, Photographic Society Singapore
  • 2023, NAFA Talent Development Programme Showcase, NAFA, Singapore

Events & Activities

  • 2024-2025, Curatorial Team, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Fine Art graduating cohort of 2025, NAFA
  • 2024, Class Representative, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Fine Art
  • 2023, Student Panelist, NAFA Open House Webinar
About the Award

The Embassy of Peru Award was first presented in 2006. It is presented to the most outstanding degree graduate at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. The award recognises the all-round achievements of the recipient who possesses strong academic performance, good attributes including discipline, diligence and leadership qualities, as well as contributions towards the class, Academy and arts community.

The award is a Tumi from Peru. It is made of solid silver. The Tumi is one of the symbols of Peru. It has its origin in one of the main cultures in ancient Peru between 1050 – 1476 AD, known as the Chimú Culture. One of the important accomplishments of the Chimú was the establishment of the goldsmith workshops. Among the most famous pieces made were the great ceremonial knives called the Tumi. During the ancient times in Peru, it was used as a knife in ceremonies and surgeries. Later on, it evolved into an art object.

Peru is a country where gold, silver and other metals with artistic character are in abundance and so the Tumi is symbolic of the art and culture of Peru. In Peru, hanging a Tumi on a wall brings good luck.

Debbie Yuen Hui Yee

NAFA Chairman Award

Debbie Yuen Hui Yee | Diploma in Illustration Design with Animation

Profile

Awards and Achievements

  • 2024, NAFA Scholarship (Diploma)
  • 2024, 1st place, Student Illustrator Awards, Singapore Children’s Book Festival, NAFA
  • 2023, 2nd prize, Kidney Dialysis Foundation Calendar Design, Kidney Dialysis Foundation
  • Dean's List Award, AY2024/2025 Semester 1
  • Dean's List Award, AY2023/2024 Semester 2
  • Most Improved GPA Award, AY23/24 Semester 1

Events, Exhibitions and Activities

  • 2025, Student Representative, Diploma in Illustration Design with Animation
  • 2025, Exhibitor, Sly the Fly Children’s Book Exhibition in Flagship Genius Featuring Văn Miếu - Quốc Tử Giám II, NAFA
  • 2025, Illustrator, Sly the Fly Children’s Book, in collaboration with Epigram
  • 2024, Exhibitor, Interchangeable Lives Showcase, Singapore Airport Terminal Services (SATS) Project 2024
  • 2024, Top 15, Silver Generation Office (SGO) Mascot Design Competition 2024 for SGO 10th Anniversary
  • 2024, Participant (Animation Category), Taiwan International Student Design Competition 2024
  • 2024, Student Ambassador, NAFA Open House
  • 2024, Student Leader, NAFA Orientation
  • 2024, Student Volunteer, Singapore Children’s Book Festival 2024, NAFA
  • 2024, Student Representative, Diploma in Illustration Design with Animation
  • 2024, Volunteer, NAFA Special Projects unit ‘Big Tiny Lazarus Island Painting Project’
  • 2023, Participant, Water Day Exhibition, NAFA Special Projects Unit
  • 2023, Participant, NAFA’s ‘85th Gala Dinner ‘Table Decoration / Head Gear Project’
  • 2023, Vice-Chairperson, NAFA Orientation Committee
  • 2023, Student Representative, Diploma in Illustration Design with Animation
About the Award

The NAFA Chairman Award is presented each year to an exceptional student from amongst the best diploma graduates of each graduating cohort. The award recognises the all-round achievements of the recipient who has excelled academically and distinguished himself/herself in other areas.

The award was presented for the first time in 2015.

Muhammad Raihan Syahmi Bin Abdul Hadi

NAFA President Award (Degree)

Muhammad Raihan Syahmi Bin Abdul Hadi | Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Design Practice

Profile

Awards & Achievements

  • 2025, Overall Winner, ASEAN Furniture Design Award 2025, Bangkok, Thailand
  • 2023, Designer and fabricator, AKAR – Lestarikan Seni Kita Arts Learning Festival 2023. By The Arts House
  • NAFA Talent Development Programme AY2022/2023 enrollee

Events & Activities

  • 2025, Participant, a Sustainable Design Competition titled "Containment - Vessel." By Singapore Timber Association
  • 2023, Designer and fabricator, AKAR – Lestarikan Seni Kita Arts Learning Festival 2023. By The Arts House
  • 2023, Fabricator, The Tree of Hope and Sunflower Remembrance Day. By HCA Hospice Care
About the Award

The NAFA President Award (Degree) is presented each year to an exceptional student from amongst the best degree graduates of each graduating cohort.

The award recognises the all-round achievements of the recipient who has excelled academically and distinguished himself/herself in other areas.

The award is presented for the first time in 2024.

Alice Tan Qian Ai

NAFA President Award (Diploma)

Alice Tan Qian Ai | Diploma in Fashion Design

Profile

Awards and Achievements

  • 2025, Best Final Year Collection Award, Diploma in Fashion Design, NAFA
  • 2022 - 2025, The Ngee Ann Kongsi Talent Scholarship, NAFA
  • Dean's List Award, AY2024/2025 Semester 1
  • Dean's List Award, AY2023/2024 Semester 2
  • Dean's List Award, AY2023/2024 Semester 1

Events, Exhibitions and Activities

  • 2025, Fashion Panel by Career Services
  • 2025, Blooming Bubbles, NAFA Talent Development Programme Student Showcase
  • 2024, Participant, Singapore Council of Women Organisation Upcycling Project
About the Award

The NAFA President Award (Diploma) is presented each year to an exceptional student from amongst the best diploma graduates of each graduating cohort.

The award recognises the all-round achievements of the recipient who has excelled academically and distinguished himself/herself in other areas.

The award was presented for the first time in 2006.

Althaea Grace Wangko

Wu Tsung Kan Book Prize

Althaea Grace Wangko | Diploma in Arts Management

Profile

Awards and Achievements

  • AY2024/2025, NAFA Scholarship (Diploma)
  • AY2023/2024, NAFA Merit Award (Diploma)
  • AY2023/2024, Tan Chay Bing Entry Merit Award
  • NAFA Talent Development Programme AY2023/2024 enrollee
  • Dean’s List Award, AY2024/2025 Semester 1
  • Dean’s List Award, AY2023/2024 Semester 2
  • Dean’s List Award, AY2023/2024 Semester 1
  • Dean’s List Award, AY2022/2023 Semester 2
  • Dean’s List Award, AY2022/2023 Semester 1
  • Top Scorer for Arts Criticism & Research (DAM3006) and Creative Entrepreneurship (DAM3022), AY2024/2025
  • Top Scorer for Arts Marketing & Audience Development (DAM2121), Live Sound & Sound Design (DAM2153), Professional Development 2 (DAM2002), Human Resource Management (DAM2210) and Lighting Fundamentals (DAM2254), AY2023/2024
  • Top Scorer for Academic Writing (DAM1101) and Understanding Performing Arts (DAM1160), AY2022/2023

Events, Exhibitions and Activities

  • 2025, Participant, The Singapore Dream and You, REACH x Varsity Voices Dialogue with Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong
  • 2024, Master of Ceremony, NAFA Scholarships and Awards Ceremony
  • 2024, NAFA Delegate, Young Singaporeans Conference 2024 - Mental Health, Institute of Policy Studies
  • 2024, Sound Recorder & Editor/Performer, Centering the Center, NAFA
  • 2024, Panellist for the International Lecture Panel, The Overseas Immersion Program #2, Institut Seni Indonesia, Jogja
  • 2024, Sound Operator, Celestial Heights, NAFA Talent Development Programme
  • 2024, Sound Operator, ‘City Reading Festival @SG’ Launch, NAFA x Lianhe Zaobao
  • 2024, Student Ambassador for School of Arts Management Outreach
  • 2024, Project Coordinator/Artist, Interdisciplinary Project Showcase , NAFA
  • 2024 Video Artist/Stagehand, My Art, Our Voices, National Gallery Singapore, NAFA
  • 2024, Moderator, ‘Hiring Practices, What Employers Look out for’ Arts Management Forum, NAFA
  • 2024, Student Ambassador, NAFA Open House
  • 2024 - Present, Chairman, NAFA Gamelan CCA Club
  • 2023 and 2022, NAFA Contingent, The Purple Parade
  • 2023, Team In-Charge and Student Leader, NAFA Orientation
  • 2023, Vocalist, "Songs of Sustenance", Creative PLAYground, NAFA SOM x City Square Mall
  • 2022, Student Representative, Diploma in Arts Management
  • 2022 - Aug 2022 to Jan 2023, Video Artist, Flagship Genius featuring Ayutthaya IV Exhibition
  • 2022 - 2023, Volunteering Roles with Hack Kopitiam (Arts for Social Good Club), The Esplanade Co. Ltd, Singapore Art Museum, and Singapore Ballet
About the Award

The Wu Tsung Kan Book Prize is a premier award for all-round excellence. Two awards are presented to exceptional students from amongst the best diploma graduates at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. The recipients are selected based on academic excellence and other outstanding achievements.

Mr Wu Tsung Kan served as Principal of NAFA from 1979 to 1988. He had a long and distinguished career in Singapore’s education sector. Among his many significant achievements in NAFA were the introduction of new diploma courses in Music, Dance and Design, a revamp of the curriculum and assessment system, ensuring the building of new campus facilities including an art gallery, and establishing new sources of funding. The Academy grew in national and international stature as a result of Mr Wu’s vision and dedication.

The Wu Tsung Kan Book Prize has been made possible by a generous donation from Mr Wu and his family on the occasion of his 97th birthday on 23 April 2016.

Ong Lin Wei

Wu Tsung Kan Book Prize

Ong Lin Wei | Diploma in Music

Profile

Awards and Achievements

  • 2025, 1st prize, ‘Classical Music Stars’ International Competition (online), Poland (Jan)
  • 2025, Awarded a fellowship by the New Sights Fellowship Programme 2025, organised by Pasat Merdu, Singapore
  • AY2024/2025, NAFA Merit Award (Diploma)
  • Dean’s List Award, AY2023/2024 Semester 1

Events, Exhibitions and Activities

  • 2024 and 2025, Music arranger, Braddell Heights Symphony Orchestra and Chorus Mother’s Day Concert
  • 2025, Orchestrated The Wall concert for Welcome to the Machine
  • 2025, Composer of Suite 1965 for Tampines Hub Festival 2025
  • 2025, Co-composer for music, AI Generative Art t, a NAFA-UOB collaboration project
  • 2025, Programming of personal composition Battle of Bukit Chandu piece by Macpherson Philharmonic Orchestra
  • 2024, Selected as one of 6 participants for Singapore Symphony Orchestra Composition Workshop, with composition read and performed by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra
  • 2024, Composer for the Asian Cultural Symphony Orchestra’s National Day Concert
  • 2024, Co-arranged Carmen Fantasy, for a marimba and saxophone quartet, Suzhou International Winds Festival 2024
  • 2024, Coached the ensemble for the Lions Befrienders concert 2024
  • 2024, Music arranger, Braddell Heights Symphony Orchestra and Chorus Christmas Concert

Performance Roles

  • 2025, Performer (Erhu) for the High Commissioner in Kuala Lumpur with music ensemble, Artusik
  • 2025, Performer (Erhu) for Voices of Singapore concert
  • 2024, Violinist, Anugeraki Mendaki Orkestra Melayu
About the Award

The Wu Tsung Kan Book Prize is a premier award for all-round excellence. Two awards are presented to exceptional students from amongst the best diploma graduates at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. The recipients are selected based on academic excellence and other outstanding achievements.

Mr Wu Tsung Kan served as Principal of NAFA from 1979 to 1988. He had a long and distinguished career in Singapore’s education sector. Among his many significant achievements in NAFA were the introduction of new diploma courses in Music, Dance and Design, a revamp of the curriculum and assessment system, ensuring the building of new campus facilities including an art gallery, and establishing new sources of funding. The Academy grew in national and international stature as a result of Mr Wu’s vision and dedication.

The Wu Tsung Kan Book Prize has been made possible by a generous donation from Mr Wu and his family on the occasion of his 97th birthday on 23 April 2016.

Yam Yu Han, Jovanna

NAFA Outstanding Achievement Award

Yam Yu Han, Jovanna | Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Instrumental & Vocal Teaching

Profile

Awards & Achievements

  • 2024, Rearrangement of OCBC Jingle The Bank for All featured in OCBC Employer brand Showcase
  • AY2023-2025, OCBC Local Undergraduate Scholarship

Performance Roles

  • 2024, Pianist, Mediacorp President’s Challenge Night 2024
  • 2022, Performer, NAFA Library Concert Series: Music Marathon
  • 2022, Performer, NAFA Library Concert: Retrogressions

Events & Activities

  • 2023, Composer for a piece titled ‘The Worst’ performed at NAFA’s 85th Anniversary celebration
  • 2021, Composer for a piece titled ‘Irrawaddy’ performed the National Gallery of Singapore
About the Award

The NAFA Outstanding Achievement Award is a premier award. This year, it is presented to an exceptional student from amongst the best graduates who has excelled academically and distinguished herself in being most enterprising.

Best Graduate Award

Barros Leao Nicole

Barros Leao Nicole

Stephy Chien Mun Yin

Stephy Chien Mun Yin

Althaea Grace Wangko

Althaea Grace Wangko

Ng Jun Yi

Ng Jun Yi

Liu Mengyao

Liu Mengyao

Fung Wei Wen Stanley

Fung Wei Wen Stanley

Evangeline Jessica Soebagia

Evangeline Jessica Soebagia

Tan Zi En

Tan Zi En

Alice Tan Qian Ai

Alice Tan Qian Ai

Chan Jia-Min, Carmen

Chan Jia-Min, Carmen

Lim Wan Leng

Lim Wan Leng

Debbie Yuen Hui Yee

Debbie Yuen Hui Yee

Ong Lin Wei

Ong Lin Wei

Wong Xin Hui Rachael

Wong Xin Hui Rachael

Eriqa Nayly Qistina Binte Imran

Eriqa Nayly Qistina Binte Imran

Stephanie Lucinda Gomas

Stephanie Lucinda Gomas

Low Kien Bin

Low Kien Bing

Chang Kai-Ju

Chang Kai-Ju

Muhammad Raihan Syahmi Bin Abdul Hadi

Muhammad Raihan Syahmi Bin Abdul Hadi

NTharayil Sachid Nitika

Tharayil Sachid Nitika

Ng Jia Xi

Ng Jia Xi

Lee Yuan Ching, Jaime

Lee Yuan Ching, Jaime

Yam Yu Han, Jovanna

Yam Yu Han, Jovanna

Koh Yu Jie

Koh Yu Jie

Ng Xin Yu

Ng Xin Yu