News | September 1, 2020
2020 Mr. Sheldon G. and Dr. Miriam Adelson Citizenship Awards - Meet the Winners from Singapore
Over the past two weeks, we have introduced you to the Las Vegas and Macao-based winners of the 2020 Mr. Sheldon G. and Dr. Miriam Adelson Citizenship Award, which honors Sands Team Members across all our business regions for demonstrating a passion for volunteering with local communities and important causes. Whether through Sands Cares, our global corporate giving program, or through causes personally held dear, each of the nine honored Team Members truly deserves the title of “Sands Cares Hero.”
Concluding our series of regional profiles, we would like to introduce you to our three Singapore-based winners of the 2020 Adelson Citizenship Award.
Srinivasan Navaneethan
Pools & Recreation Guest Service Agent
Srinivasan has been with Sands for the past decade, the last three years in his current role. In 2019, he participated in eight different Sands Cares volunteer events, including multiple local food bank events and the annual Sands for Singapore Charity Festival. He is also a strong supporter of Sands ECO360, our global sustainability program, doing his part by performing four different ECO Actions.
From his self-described humble upbringing in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu in a rural village, Srinivasan learned the value of community – or kampung spirit, a Singaporean phrase that stands for a sense of social cohesion and neighbors helping neighbors. “From a very young age, I was taught that sharing is caring,” he says. “I am grateful to have been exposed to such great values as a child; and as a parent, I have taught my children the importance of helping others through volunteer activities.”
Other Fast Facts:
What is your favorite place in the world?
Marina Bay Sands! It is an iconic building, and truly represents Singapore. Its unique architecture and sheer scale make it one of the modern marvels of the world.
What is one interesting thing about you that many people may not know?
In 2010, I volunteered for the Youth Olympics in Singapore. To my surprise, they invited me to be a torch bearer, and I carried the torch for 100 meters. It was truly an honor.
What is the best life advice you ever received?
Sometimes, the best life advice doesn’t come in the form of words. More often than not, actions speak louder than words. I believe you can make a real difference in the world through your actions, be they big or small.
Bobby Ow
Senior Market Development Executive
Bobby has been with Sands for the past 10 years, serving in his current role for the previous four. In 2019, he documented 49 volunteer hours with Sands Cares events, including with the Sands for Singapore Charity Festival. Bobby also is a supporter of Red Cross, as a regular blood and financial donor.
Born in Singapore and raised in the area’s Whampoa Housing District, Bobby is the proud father of two children – “My pride and joy,” he says. “My daughter enjoys playing the piano and my son is an avid clay figurine maker.” Bobby himself is an film lover, watching 60 – 80 movies a year, finding himself inspired by characters who triumph over difficult challenges.
Other Fast Facts:
What is your idea of the perfect day?
Spending time with my family, because they are my world. Sometimes, we go out to visit different places in Singapore, but most of the time just a hearty meal with my family at home is all I need to be happy.
Who do you admire most in your life?
My mother. Throughout her life, she has never backed down from a challenge and is always trying out new ideas, including starting a successful pineapple tart business. I am truly proud to be her son.
What is the best life advice you ever received?
A former colleague told me, “When you go to work, don’t be too calculative.” What he meant was I should always give my best in all that I do, and continue improving myself by learning new skills. This has taught me to always strive for excellence, be a team player and help others who need it.
Vanessa Seah
Senior Revenue Optimization Administrator
Vanessa Seah, just like our other two Singapore finalists, has been with the company for the past 10 years, having spent the last seven as a senior revenue optimization administrator. With Sands Cares, she has participated in the Sands for Singapore Charity Festival since its inception in 2012. That year, she volunteered with the festival in support of the Singapore Association for the Deaf, together with 20 other company volunteers. In her community, she gives her time to AWWA Family Service Centre, a community-based organization that provides help and support to families in need.
Born and raised in Singapore, and the older sibling to two younger sisters, Vanessa is a single mother of two boys, aged 18 and 21. With her younger son pursuing a university degree in animation and her eldest enlisted in the Singapore Civil Defense Force, Vanessa is proud to see her children grow into the adults they are: “I’m happy to have raised them into confident adults who are both sensible in judgment and passionate in their interests.”
Other Fast Facts:
What makes you proud of yourself?
I’m proud of myself for looking after my family. In these times especially, it’s crucial to look out for one another.
What is your ideal, perfect day?
Relaxing at the beach. No matter how busy you are, it’s important to take care of your own emotional well-being. After a good break, you’re refreshed and even more productive than before.
How do you respond to challenges in life?
When encountering a big challenge, the best approach is to confront it straight on. Challenges come your way throughout your life; however, what matters most is how you react.