A Collaboration with Singapore Polytechnic
What if we allow youths to lead Our Way Forward?
What if we allow youths to lead Our Way Forward?
Working alongside youths from the School of Media, Arts & Design (MAD), we set out to explore how young creatives interpret sustainability through public art.
Over a six-month journey, the youths worked closely with UOB Painting of the Year (POY) artist William Goh, conducted research, and engaged more than 150 youths to gather perspectives on what sustainability means — especially for a mural positioned just steps from the campus’s main entrance.
Sustainable events should be designed sustainably! Here are some principles kept in mind for the planning of the event.
Use of Paint
Careful consideration was given to selecting paint that could withstand deep cleaning and last for years beyond the mural launch. The amount of paint was planned to minimise wastage while ensuring there was enough for post-event touch-ups and maintenance. Brushes used during the process were also kept and reused where possible.
Mural Plaque
In line with the theme, a plaque made from recycled milk bottles, thoughtfully crafted by Semula, was created to recognise the efforts of the youths.
The initiative reached over 250 youths and educators through:
“Our Way Forward” is the second of five community murals created as part of Green Mosaic.
Set along the path leading into the heart of campus, this mural celebrates Singapore Polytechnic’s commitment to building a sustainable future. Co-created by UOB POY artist William Goh and SP MAD youths, it blends nature, technology, and community into a unified narrative of progress.
The artwork features ten sustainability elements — from green buildings, trees, and solar panels to cycling, electric buses, and recycling. Together, they illustrate how innovation and everyday habits can shape a more sustainable world. Viewers are encouraged to spot all ten elements and consider how these choices appear in their own lives.
Our Way Forward captures the spirit of SP: creative, responsible, and forward-looking. It encourages everyone on campus to see themselves as part of an evolving journey toward a more sustainable tomorrow. Visit T16 at SP to explore the mural up close!
Take a closer look at the mural and challenge yourself! Can you find all 10 sustainability elements hidden in the artwork? Hint: Number 9 isn’t easy to spot!
The 10 Sustainability Elements and What They Teach Us
Solar Panels
Harness sunlight to generate clean, renewable energy without carbon emissions.
Recycling Bins
Encourage sorting of waste to reduce landfill use and turn used materials into new resources.
Wind Turbine
Generates electricity using wind power, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Electric Bus
Represents low-emission public transport that helps reduce air pollution.
Solar Battery
Stores renewable energy for use when the sun isn’t shining.
Cycling to School
Promotes healthy, low-carbon travel that reduces traffic and emissions.
Greenery and Foliage
Plants cool the environment, improve air quality, and support biodiversity.
LED Light Bulbs
Use less electricity and last longer than traditional bulbs, reducing energy consumption
E-Waste Recycling Ground
Highlights the importance of safely recycling electronics to prevent toxic pollution.
Walking to School
Encourages simple, everyday choices that lower carbon footprints and improve overall well-being.
William Goh is an award-winning artist and the recipient of the 42nd UOB POY 2023, Highly Commended Award (Established), along with multiple other prestigious accolades.
Currently serving as the President of the Modern Art Society, Goh is a visual artist who spends his time indulging in the realm of arts and exploring various concepts and mediums.
Following the mural’s completion, a pre-launch campaign on 24 Oct 2025 engaged the wider student body. Teachers and youths from SP MAD and the School of Business successfully led a series of interactive activities to introduce the mural to the campus community and build excitement for its launch:
Across five sessions, UOB POY Artist William, Mr Shah Kamarulzaman (SP MAD Lecturer), and up to 12 MAD youths collaborated to bring the mural to life, balancing school and external commitments.
From brainstorming to painting, UOB and Green Nudge prioritised cultivating a sense of ownership among participating youths. We believe the mural should reflect their unique perspectives — painted by the youths today, for the youths of tomorrow.
It takes a village to make an event successful! The launch was made possible with the support of Singapore Polytechnic, UOB, and the SG Eco Fund.
Teachers and youths from Singapore Polytechnic’s School of Media, Arts and Design also played a key role in supporting and documenting the event. The mural came to life thanks to their unwavering commitment and dedication.
