Student Leaders' Retreat 09

Day 2. 14 May 2009

The student leaders arrived for another new day of the Retreat; first tucking into breakfast while exchanging ideas and experiences with each other. What I noted on the 2nd day was that the students were more relaxed and comfortable to members of different groups, some of them were already discussing potential future collaborations!

The representatives from all the various departments in CFA proceeded to talk about their areas of concern; starting off with Programmes. Assistant Director Karen informed the leaders about the important dates in the academic year; of proposals that had to be submitted for approval and the potential of collaborative efforts.

Marketing Communications manager Dinah then briefed all about the publicity collaterals, marketing and ticketing aspects of organising a concert. Assistant Director Betty of Business Development then showed that despite being a one-woman department, she was more than willing to answer queries pertaining to sponsorships and donations.

Museum representative Asst. Director Nam Leng showed a series of exciting photographs and explored the opportunity of using the Museum as a performance venue. After which, Gevin from Productions went on to elaborate more on the nitty gritty details of technical requirements and administration.

The highlight of the day had to be the group discussion of the whole year work plan. The groups got down and serious about this as they realised how much planning had to go into their work in the coming academic year. There were some groups who planned pages after pages of work (eg. NUS Ilsa Tari), and there were some who chose to draw diagrams on a white board (NUS Blast!). No matter what form of presentation was chosen, the groups sure had a fulfilling time together; I do look forward to see all these planning take shape and take flight!

5 groups were chosen to present their work plans to all - Dance Ensemble, Choir, Ilsa Tari, Blast! and Wind Symphony. I could see the audience nodding their heads in approval, or have their brows knitted in deep thought. The 5 groups provided an insight to their work; impressing the CFA Executive Committee members (Director Christine, CFO Kian Chee and Deputy Director Ju Li) who came down to show their support.

The SLR 09 ended off with a BBQ buffet by the poolside; a wonderful chance for all leaders to sit down for a meal together and to interact with CFA Staff.