Tan Sze Wei: Turning a Passion for Animals into Charitable Action

Sparking change: Tan Sze Wei and her son Yu Cheng

Tan Sze Wei, a 43-year-old Singaporean, has transformed her lifelong passion for dogs and books into a unique initiative that benefits shelter animals. Since adopting her first stray at age 13, Sze Wei's empathy for animals has grown. Recognising the financial challenges shelters face, she was inspired to find a creative way to help—leading her to blend her love for storytelling with philanthropy.

A Literary Lifeline 

The project materialised as Brownie Girl's Space Adventure, a children's colouring book penned by Sze Wei. The story, supported by captivating illustrations from her 10-year-old son, Yu Cheng, narrates the tale of Brownie Girl, a shelter dog whose dreams launch her into a stellar adventure in space. This book isn't just a fundraising tool; it's a medium through which Sze Wei teaches children about empathy, dreams, and the importance of community support.

All proceeds from the books support the operations of the Forget Me Not Shelter, a space for many dogs with special needs.

A Family Affair in Volunteering 

The development of Brownie Girl's Space Adventure was a family affair, reflecting the values Sze Wei wishes to instil in her son—compassion and active kindness. Their home even hosts a small free library where they can share their love for reading with neighbours, further extending their impact on the community. This venture into philanthropy is just the latest in a series of initiatives by the mother-son duo, who have previously supported organisations like ACRES and Guide Dogs Singapore.

Impact on the Community and Beyond 

The efforts of Sze Wei and Yu Cheng go beyond mere fundraising; they foster a culture of giving and awareness. Their book serves as a reminder of the overlooked needs of shelter animals, with all proceeds supporting the operations of the Forget Me Not Shelter. This shelter, crucial for many dogs with special needs, continues to struggle with the financial and manpower shortages exacerbated by the pandemic, making contributions from individuals like Sze Wei all the more significant.

Sze Wei and her son exemplify how ordinary citizens can make extraordinary impacts through their creative and heartfelt endeavours. Their story is about helping animals and inspiring others, regardless of age, to take action and make a difference in their communities.