The message of building bridges and breaking down walls that is at the core of St Joseph’s Family of Schools’ (SJFS) upcoming production, “A Story of Ours: Us and Them,” took on a new meaning as Utah-based Sarawakian, Cindy M. Chia, purchased more than 30 tickets to be given to beneficiaries in three charity organisations in Kuching.
Chia who is a psychologist, therapist and the founder of Aspire Psychological, an award-winning mental health private practice in Utah, works with adults and children that need mental health support and treatment.
When asked what inspired her to buy these tickets, she responded that she always strives to be intentional in her actions and contributions, making a difference by helping to create meaningful experiences for others.
When she heard about the SJFS production of “A Story of Ours: Us and Them,” she reached out to the committee members directing the show and suggested contributing tickets to be given away. This, she felt, is a more personal and impactful way of supporting not just the production but also giving the opportunity for the message to reach a wider audience.
Chia hoped that her small donation will bring light and joy in the recipients’ hearts through the SJFS’ upcoming school production, “A Story of Ours: Us and Them.” She added, “I did not get much opportunity to attend performances like these growing up as they were sometimes beyond the reach of my family. This allows me to gift the opportunity to enjoy one of Kuching’s finest school performances to a greater number. I hope that they would enjoy the performance and to always remember to carry and share that light with others as well.”
The three charity organizations that benefitted from her generous donation are Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society, Salvation Army Children’s Home Kuching and Yayasan LaSallian Kuching.
“We are truly blessed to have so many friends from Kuching and all over the world who believe in what we do and who generously support our efforts at education and development,” was a response from Fr. Stanley Goh SJ, acting principal of St. Joseph’s Secondary School and one of the playwrights in the upcoming school production.
He added, “Ms Chia’s generosity from halfway across the world echoes the message of our production that building bridges can create a more inclusive community for the good of all.”
St. Joseph’s Family of Schools’ production, “A Story of Ours: Us and Them” will be held on September 29 and 30 2023 at the Archdiocesan Curia and Cathedral Pastoral Centre (ACCPC), St Joseph’s Cathedral and will feature songs and dances by the schools’ acclaimed chamber choir, musicians, dancers and performers.
At the heart of it is a drama that explores the boundaries of our societies and current issues. Tickets for the school production are now available. They can be purchased at the administration office of the St. Joseph’s Private Secondary School.
All proceeds from the school production goes towards the building of a new school block that will house much-needed learning facilities and spaces such as a hall, music room and library.
Those who are interested in the school production may contact 082-414575 / 082-420575 or check out the schools’ production website for further details.
Generous contributors who would like to support the schools’ building fund can donate via SPay, formerly known as Sarawak Pay, DuitNow or SimplyGiving.
The links can be found on the same website.
