Mr Avinash Mishra’s story goes beyond traditional volunteerism, embodying the essence of resilience, breaking societal barriers and nurturing an inclusive society.
This month, we shine a spotlight on Mr Avinash Mishra, a beacon of change and hope through his volunteer work with the Yellow Ribbon Project.
Mr Avinash Mishra’s foray into volunteering with the Yellow Ribbon Project (YRP) in December 2021 marked a pivotal moment — that of stepping out of his comfort zone.
As someone deeply entrenched in the corporate world, the Programme Manager with Microsoft took a leap of faith into uncharted territory and embarked on a mission to support current inmates and ex-offenders within the Singapore’s prison system. This bold move initiated a transformative journey for him — one with many challenges that tested his resilience, but ultimately led to profound growth.
Connecting with individuals of diverse background is one of those game-changing moments in Mr Mishra’s volunteering journey.
He recalls a PowerPoint training session he conducted, which focused on presentation and storytelling. “Older inmates around the ages of 50-55, for example, often shared profound reflections on topics like the importance of family and health, while the younger inmates approached these topics more lightly,” he shares. “I’ve also seen inmates with computer skills enrich the class, turning it into a peer-teaching experience, as well as someone who had never used a mouse before. This diversity in backgrounds and skills really highlights the broad spectrum of individuals within our society, and I respect that.”
His journey with YRP not only expanded his horizon and tested his limits, but also strengthened his commitment to fostering an inclusive society that extends beyond mere second chances.
Mr Mishra (top row, second from right) during a Home Team Volunteer Network webinar in 2022, hosted by YRP. Hear from him as he shares his experience at the webinar.
Despite the 46-year-old’s initial uncertainty and discomfort, his volunteerism has yielded immeasurable rewards. Through his dedicated involvement in digital literacy workshops, community events and befriending programmes, he has positively impacted many lives and empowered countless individuals to pursue a brighter future.
Today, Mr Mishra’s journey has transcended beyond mere participation, evolving into a voyage of self-discovery by allowing him to push the boundaries of his preconceived notions and cultivate a richer sense of empathy and connection.
Reflecting on his experiences, Mr Mishra shares: “Before volunteering within the prison system, I was apprehensive, expecting to meet hardened criminals and tough individuals. But I quickly learnt that inmates are much like anyone else you’d meet in life, with humour and talents like drawing or music, that go beyond the stereotypical image of prison life.”
He credits YRP for its crucial role in supporting ex-inmates with second chances and aiding their reintegration into society. Through awards, befriending services and art showcases, YRP helps these individuals feel valued again.
“At a YRP exhibition at Gardens by the Bay in November 2022, I was heartened by the positive public response to inmates’ and ex-inmates’ art and stories. One ex-inmate I’d worked with even shared his progress on LinkedIn recently, highlighting how individuals regain confidence and strive for excellence with YRP’s support. This experience has been a powerful reminder of the human capacity for change and the impact of offering a supportive community,” he adds.
Mr Mishra’s story serves as an inspiring beacon for volunteers nationwide. His efforts have not only enriched the lives he has touched, but also redefined his own perspectives on volunteerism.
“Volunteering has been a humbling experience that allowed me to better understand people’s problems and understand how privileged some of us are,” he shares. “It has also taught me the value of humility and the importance of lifting others as we rise, reinforcing the collective progress of our society.”
The father of one remains steadfast in his dedication to community service, and dreams of a future where active volunteerism breaks down barriers, unites diverse communities and cultivates a spirit of empathy and inclusion.
Through his ongoing work with YRP, Mr Mishra seeks to encourage others to embrace the unfamiliar, challenge conventional norms and embark on their own transformative journeys of volunteerism. He shares: “Volunteering with prisoners or former inmates presents its challenges. Progress is slow and sometimes invisible, as inmates work through a lengthy process of rehabilitation, potentially leading volunteers to feel a deep emotional connection or exhaustion.”
Mr Mishra highlights the hurdles faced by ex-offenders, such as societal stigma, which complicates their job search and may inadvertently push them back towards criminal activities. Nonetheless, he emphasises that for those determined to effect long-term change and capable of handling emotional challenges, this type of volunteer work can be immensely satisfying and play a crucial role in enhancing Singapore’s safety in the long run.
Mr Mishra with his wife and son during a family outing.
Sharing his advice with prospective volunteers, Mr Mishra says: “Volunteering requires self-motivation, and family support is critical.” He adds that it is vital for whoever is considering it to ensure that they strike the right balance between personal and volunteering commitments. “The initial steps may be challenging, but once you’ve established your footing, you’ll find a rewarding road ahead.”
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