SEA Games 2015 Blog

Gek Choo’s Story
Seah Gek Choo, Talent Partner, Deloitte Singapore
[Seen on the left with Nila, the 28th SEA Games mascot]

I believe that sport is a universal language that transcends the barriers between cultures, races, religions and physical abilities.

It is therefore particularly apt that Singapore will be hosting the 28th SEA Games in its Golden Jubilee year – a wonderful way for all of us to celebrate together As One.

At Deloitte, our involvement in sports has provided us with many opportunities to connect with our people and our community.

This started about five years ago, when I witnessed the bonds and unity among people from all walks of life as a Deloitte volunteer at the Singapore Youth Olympic Games (SYOG). Everyone – athletes, organisers, volunteers and the general public – worked hard together to make the inaugural YOG a momentous one and I will always be proud of how well our people came together to contribute to this success.

This year, we are once again given the opportunity to be part of a multi-sport extravaganza. As the Official Professional Services Partner for the 28th SEA Games, we will have more than 200 Deloitte volunteers helping out at the Games in June this year, and we will all work hand in hand to reach out with our passion and commitment to the nation, and connect with the people around us – friends, family, colleagues, and the community at large.

Apart from being Deloitte Singapore’s Talent Partner and an audit partner, I am also a member of the Deloitte ladies futsal team, connecting with my fellow colleagues outside of work. During the season, our team often commits to train twice a week after office hours and on weekends; hence I understand the level of commitment required in terms of training to be able to compete competitively. Last year, we even flew to Prague to compete in the Deloitte Member Firms Prague Cup tournament. It was exhilarating to watch my team members play their hearts out and we managed to clinch the Consolation Cup in our first showing at this annual tournament!

Being part of a sports team has motivated me to start my own regular exercise regime to build up my fitness to be able to play better alongside my futsal teammates, and I am really pleased to receive compliments from my friends telling me that I look fitter!

Sport has also taught me many other valuable lessons and is a great way for me to bond with my children. My daughter and I participated in a short 3.5km fun run last year. As we jogged and walked together, I was reminded of the importance of resilience and perseverance, and I took the chance to share this with my daughter. No matter how long we need to take, whether we walk or run, we must still complete the race – there are no short cuts in life!

This is a special and historical year for Singapore. As we participate in the 28th SEA Games and give our best to make Deloitte and Singapore proud, I would like all of us to find opportunities to connect with the people who are also on this journey. When we make every moment with them count, they might just show us little gems that can become valuable lessons for us to take home.

Gek Choo