Nur Fadhilah Binte Salleh is a 25 year old with Down syndrome who embraces her individuality and enjoys spending time with other people. Fadhilah, who graduated from Rainbow Centre in 2016, keeps herself socially connected through RC’s post-18 programmes. 
 
Driven by a shared desire for independence, Fadhilah and her mother decided to explore alternative options to day activity centres that would allow her to navigate her adulthood on her own terms. In 2021, Fadhilah enrolled in RC’s Connected Communities Services, a case management and life coaching programme that connects her to meaningful engagements in the community. Presently, she participates in the Good Life Befrienders programme, where she meets two befrienders – Chua Si Ying and Lim Zi En – monthly. 
 
Designed to foster integration by pairing young adults with disabilities with compatible Befrienders who share similar interests, the trio have explored a diverse array of activities to motivate Fadhilah’s involvement and social engagement. Whether it is crafting jingles during a cosy home visit or embarking on outings to water parks, both befrienders take the lead in conversing with Fadhilah’s mother to curate the most suitable experiences for her. From meticulously preparing craft materials to conducting site visits to ensure wheelchair accessibility, Si Ying and Zi En are committed to planning fun and successful outings. 
 
Reflecting on their shared experiences, Si Ying recalls a poignant memory at a bustling water play area where they encountered a neurotypical child who sought to join their fun. This encounter not only brought immense joy but also showed others that disabilities do not define the capacity for friendship. “I hope that Fadhilah will expand her circle of friends and continue to radiate her trademark cheerfulness,” she said.