The theme of the evening, “Back to School,” served as a fitting reminder that learning never truly stops. Some Lions arrived in their old school uniforms, with one even coming complete with a school badge! The assembly was entertained by a band that played nostalgic songs from yesteryear, and the proceedings were well-managed by MCs Wendeline Chong and Joseph Lui. There were lucky draws, with prizes generously donated by Lions Simon Lim, Lawrence Sew, Henry Liang, Jenny Tan, Wendeline Chong, Joseph Lui, and Joanna Soh. Amidst the merriment, there was also a gentle reminder that DLTI must look forward to the future learning needs of Lions in our District.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of DLTI, Lion Simon Lim, stated that the establishment of DLTI during PDG David Lee’s term as District Governor was the result of visionary leaders who recognised the importance of leadership development. He expressed gratitude to the many individuals whose unwavering dedication and passion made DLTI’s achievements possible. In particular, he extended his heartfelt appreciation to our inaugural Chairperson, PCC Dr Winston Koh, and Vice-Chairperson PDG Isabel Cheong. Their visionary leadership, combined with the tireless efforts of past and present facilitators, has laid a solid foundation upon which DLTI will continue to shine as a beacon of leadership, service, and personal growth for Lions across our District. 

Chairman Lion Simon Lim reminded all present that DLTI was still a “work in progress.” “There is much room for improvement,” he said. DLTI must focus more on interactive learning, engaging participants through role-playing and simulations while promoting group discussions and problem-solving activities rather than merely delivering information. This also means reviewing DLTI’s training materials to reflect the changing needs of Adult Learning.

The Guest of Honour for the evening was our District Governor, Lions Shirley Lee. In her speech, she emphasised the crucial role played by DLTI as the training arm of our District. She expressed her gratitude to DLTI for providing annual training for Club and Cabinet Officers and for assisting the District in achieving its training goals.

PCC Lion Dr. Winston Koh, in his speech, also emphasised the need to look ahead. He stated that although much has been achieved in the past, DLTI must prepare itself to meet future challenges. It must continually review its curriculum to remain up to date, and its current activities and training programmes may need to be modified and restructured to achieve the best results. With the continual advancement and use of technology and IT in training, conducting regular webinars and online training are some topics that must be examined and discussed. He posed a very pertinent question: More recently, AI has appeared – what is its impact on training, and can it be used as a tool to support leadership training? He urged all DLTI facilitators to continue working hard to maintain high standards and to keep the DLTI flag flying high from year to year. He said, “As facilitators, you must constantly refine, sharpen, and improve your skills, and demonstrate leadership through your actions – leading by example and walking the talk.”

One of the pioneering facilitators was also invited to speak. Ex-Lion Kang Oyo spoke for many of the facilitators present when he thanked them for the memories, lessons, and friendships they had shared over the past decade. He eloquently expressed what many in the audience also felt—that he was confident DLTI would continue to thrive under the leadership of Chairman Simon Lim and future young, capable Lions. The future of DLTI is bright, and we do not doubt that the mission of DLTI will be upheld with even greater passion and dedication.

As one surveys the Grand Ballroom of the York Hotel that evening, it is impossible not to be struck by the sheer volume of talent and energy that DLTI can harness for its future growth and development. Potential facilitators, including Lion Dayanand Menon, Lion Dr. Steven Chong, and Lion Albert Chew, seem poised to take on additional roles on behalf of DLTI. 

Thank you very much, Organising Chairperson Lion Wendeline Chong, SVDG Lawrence Sew, Lion Jenny Tan, Lions Joseph Lui, Lions Steven Tan, Lion Helena Liang, Lions Joanna Soh and Lion Violet Lee for organising such an impressive and memorable celebration!!!

Written by Dr. Chey Chor Khoon