| Members Profile |
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The members of SSA are classified along various divisions. This makes for effective conduct of program and outreach that meet the needs of people within different groups. The percentage breakdown of membership profile for recent years has thereabout been maintained at 70% adult and 30% youth, out of which 6% are children age 12 and below.
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Men Division
The Men Division is considered the "pillar of faith" or the "central figure", providing role models and spiritual guidance to the others in very much the same manner as that of the role of a father figure in the family. They are respected for their strength and wisdom derived from their rich life experiences and for the fulfilment of their responsibilities in family, at work and in society. The MD members often support SSA activities in the backstage logistics work, overseeing and guiding the others, especially the youths while the latter are granted the opportunity to give full play to their potential. Senior members of the MD have formed an Evergreen Group to organize healthy and meaningful activities for the elderly members. Women Division
The Women Division is regarded as "the sun of the family" for the members are making great efforts to fulfil their multiple roles as homemakers, career women and members of society. Through such great personal endeavours, WD members develop their character and personality, bringing joy and inspiring courage to their families and to the community. WD members are actively involved in backstage works such as handicraft and costume sewing, and cleaning duties for the SSA centres. Young, newly-wed WD members join the Orchid Group which provides guidance for their new role. Elderly WD members join the Lily Group which provides educational and cultural activities for the senior citizens. Young Men Division
The enthusiasm and vigour of the youth make the Young Men Division the driving force behind SSA activities. At most times, the YMD is tasked with the responsibility of ensuring the success of SSA's important events. In this manner, many capable youths have surfaced, who have overcome their personal shortcomings in the course of realizing their leadership responsibilities. YMD members are actively involved in many backstage and frontline work in support of SSA's goals and activities. Their voluntary night security service for the activity centres started since SSA's founding days and remain unchanged till today. This role stands as a hallmark of the Division's trusted responsibility. Their duty in traffic control at major events is also widely appreciated by all. Young Women Division
The Young Women Division comprises youth female members. Their activities are aimed at establishing a sound philosophy of life and inculcating positive moral and social values. In this manner, the division is considered a training ground for building a foundation for their happiness in the future years. The YWD's slogan is to become women of wisdom and happiness, leading lives of joyful fulfilment based on the Buddhist practice, and bringing cheer to the people and the environment. On their own, and together with the YMD, the YWD members have been actively participating in SSA activities, and can often be seen at cultural and community events. The YWD has her own cultural groups such as the handicraft, modern dance and choir groups. Student Division
The Student Division was established in February 1984. It comprises students from the Universities, polytechnics, junior colleges, institutes of technical education and arts schools. Being in the prime of their youth, the SD members take upon themselves the task of academic accomplishment as well as training themselves widely to achieve both spiritual and intellectual growth. The slogan of the Division is to become successors of Soka and leaders of humanism who can contribute to the society at large. The Division's activities include Buddhist studies as well as educational projects aimed at cultivating good reading habits, wide interests and general knowledge of all fields of learning. Future Division
The Future Division comprises student members from the secondary levels. Members of the Division are respected as the successors for the future. Activities are aimed at fostering their strength of character and leadership capabilities for the important role they will play in the 21st century. The Division has held its own musical such as "The King and I", which saw the display of various talents. Tthough young, these members are nevertheless serious in their Buddhist faith, learning to recite prayers consistently, and remaining earnest in their studies. During the holiday seasons, outdoor activities are organized for them to foster their leadership capabilities and spirit of independence. Primary Division
The Primary Division students range from children aged 7 to 12. This group of children is taken care by a group of dedicated Women Division leaders and members. Primary Division children attend monthly activities that are held at the comfort of homes at different areas islandwide. There, their creativity is set free and talents are displayed. Strong friendships are forged at a young age. |