There’s a budding star in every child. And the START Foundation believes that every one of them deserves the right to grow their potential.

The arts, we believe, is not reserved solely for the privileged. Our earnest aim is to provide underprivileged children with an equal opportunity to unlock and express their love of the arts through our systematic and planned artistic programme.

The creative minds of today will also be called upon to inspire and mentor the children of less fortune into future creative souls.

Who knows, these children may one day become the next Ramli Ibrahim, M. Nasir, Ted Lim, Yasmin Ahmad, Michelle Yeoh, Hijjas Kasturi, Tan Sri Lim Kok Wing, Ibrahim Hussein, or perhaps even Wong Kar Wai, Vanessa Mae, Zaha Hadid, Zhang Ziyi, and Hayao Miyazaki.

The START Foundation would like nothing more than to give these children a world that’s filled with hope. We want to raise their self-esteem and improve their confidence. And we want to see them reach for the stars through their newfound love of the arts.

The Vision

The Mission

To use creative arts as the primary means to:

• raise aspirations
• improve self-esteem and confidence
• develop intellectual, social, physical and emotional skills
• encourage creativity, experimentation and fun
• change behaviour and attitudes toward learning

The Method

Lessons and workshops will be delivered on a pro-bono basis, covering various expressions of visual art, music, dance and drama. These will be delivered by talents and professionals in the creative industries, including prominent artistes and celebrities. The START Foundation provides them with an avenue to give back by making a positive impact in the lives of children. And ultimately, enabling young minds to become strong achievers.

Children are our glimmer of hope to a better and greater future. With the START Foundation, it’s the beginning of a brighter world for many young minds and for all of us.