Hospitality and Tourism Management students host inclusive Chinese New Year celebration with Down Syndrome Association
Service-Learning and Community
School of Hospitality
16 February 2026
Forty-six students partnered with Ludus Lab and the Down Syndrome Association to create a festive and inclusive Chinese New Year celebration, applying their hospitality and event management skills in a meaningful community setting.
Hospitality and Tourism Management students partnered with Ludus Lab and the Down Syndrome Association to host a vibrant Chinese New Year celebration at RP on 13 February 2026.
The event brought together 46 student volunteers and 20 beneficiaries, creating a festive space for inclusivity, cultural exchange and joyful bonding.
Drawing on modules in Event Design and Management, Hospitality Operations and Community Engagement, students applied skills in planning, facilitation, teamwork and communication while embedding accessibility and inclusivity into every activity. Guided by Ludus Lab, they designed hands-on experiences such as pineapple tart-making at Oliva Restaurant, festive sponge stamping, pipe-cleaner lantern crafts, and note-writing with colouring.
A representative from the Down Syndrome Association shared, "This collaboration gave our members a chance to celebrate Chinese New Year in a warm, inclusive environment. The students' energy and creativity made everyone feel valued and respected."
Year 2 student Khaleesa Nadya reflected, "I learned that service-learning is not just about helping others, but about growing together. Seeing the smiles when we baked tarts and crafted lanterns reminded me how small actions can create lasting joy."
The event fostered empathy, cultural awareness and teamwork among student volunteers, while beneficiaries enjoyed meaningful participation in the festivities. The day ended with performances, photo-taking and heartfelt farewells, a true celebration of community and care.
Inspired to make a difference through service-learning? Discover how RP empowers students to create meaningful community impact through service-learning programmes.