Serving It Forward with SC Fest 2025

by Amiera Batrisyia

Small Changes returned this year with the second edition of its much-anticipated engagement event also known as SC Fest 2025, an event built on the spirit of “Serving It Forward”. The idea of giving back through fun, friendly competition, and community engagement. First introduced in 2023, the festival has quickly grown into one of the Small Changes’ signature initiatives, combining sports, youth empowerment, and social impact under one vibrant roof.

Held on 5th of October 2025 at Batu 10 Complex Badminton Court, Cheras, this year’s SC Fest gathered all Small Changes volunteers, alumni and supporters for an energetic day featuring badminton matches, a lively pickleball tournament, and a bustling carboot sale. The event not only celebrated athletic enthusiasm but also raised funds for a noble cause.

Mission: From Monthly Games to Meaningful Impact

 

What began as a simple monthly pickleball and badminton session among committee members, originally intended to strengthen teamwork and friendship quickly blossomed into something much bigger as enthusiasm and participation grew. Seeing its potential, Small Changes elevated these casual gatherings into SC Fest, a vibrant platform that now amplifies the organization’s mission of empowering students through education.

What began as a simple monthly pickleball and badminton session among committee members, originally intended to strengthen teamwork and friendship quickly blossomed into something much bigger as enthusiasm and participation grew. Seeing its potential, Small Changes elevated these casual gatherings into SC Fest, a vibrant platform that now amplifies the organization’s mission of empowering students through education.

Organised under the leadership of Project Director Arash Hadzim and his dedicated team, spearheaded by Secretary General Amiera Batrisyia, this year’s event demonstrated just how much impact a united community can create. More than 70 participants took part in the activities, and over 100 guests attended in support of the cause showcasing the growing reach and resonance of the festival.

Every ringgit raised from SC Fest will be channeled directly into Small Changes’ educational outreach programmes across Malaysia, supporting underserved students through literacy initiatives, mentorship, and holistic development. The festival proudly embodied the core values of the NGO: volunteerism, “them before us,” empowerment, and social consciousness.

Highlights of The Day

SC Fest buzzed with activity from morning to afternoon, offering something for everyone.

  • Sports Tournaments: Participants showcased spirited competition in badminton and pickleball, drawing cheers from supporters and sparking new friendships across courts.
  • Carboot Sale: The vibrant carboot market featured alumni and supporters selling pre-loved items, homemade goods, and creative crafts, an eco-friendly fundraising effort with heart.
  • Lucky Draw: Excitement peaked during the lucky draw session, where attendees eagerly awaited the announcement of prizes sponsored by partners and donors.
  • Prize-Giving Ceremony: Winners from the tournaments proudly received medals and trophies, celebrating both skill and sportsmanship.
  • Small Changes Booth: The Small Changes booth drew visitors eager to learn about our outreach efforts and support the cause through merchandise sales.

Crowd Engagement: A Gathering of Old and New Faces

One of the most heartwarming aspects of SC Fest was the reunion-like atmosphere it fostered. Former volunteers from Small Changes’ flagship programmes – Seeds of Deeds 2024: Girls in Action, Seeds of Deeds: I Through Us, and Roots of Resilience returned to reconnect, reminisce, and once again contribute to a cause close to their hearts. Adding to the nostalgic charm, alumni from previous years participated in the carboot sale, strengthening the sense of continuity and community.

Meanwhile, the SC Chill Corner offered a cosy, welcoming space for attendees to rest, socialize, and form new connections, embodying the communal spirit Small Changes has nurtured over the years.

Closure and Lasting Impact

to all participants, donors, partners, and supporters whose enthusiasm and generosity made SC Fest 2025 a memorable success. Special appreciation was also given to the dedicated committee members whose months of planning, coordination, and passion brought the event to life.

SC Fest 2025 proved that when community, sport, and purpose come together, meaningful change becomes both powerful and joyful. With every rally, sale, and conversation, the festival truly lived up to its motto: “Serving It Forward.”

A special recognition goes to the core SC Fest 2025 team whose efforts made this event possible: Izzah Inshirah and Syafiq Jamali (Event Management), Idham Zamsari & Nik Najwa Alifah (Logistics), Airin Jasmin (Finance), Maira Athirah & Iman Sufia (Registration), and Nabilah Atiqah & Ameen Noor Aqilah (Design).