Our
Impact
We have supported high-potential, high-need youth to reach their higher education aspirations and unlock their full potential.
Our Closing The Gap Scholars, have successfully pursued diverse pathways, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), American Degree Transfer Program, Diplomas, Degrees, and TVET certifications, both locally and internationally.
Impact
Stories
The Closing The Gap (CTG) Scholars Programme has touched the lives of countless students across Malaysia.
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Each year, our Scholars share stories of how guidance, mentorship and opportunities have shaped their educational journeys and opened doors to new possibilities. From navigating post-SPM pathways to securing scholarships and stepping confidently into higher education, these stories reflect the real impact of personalised support and a strong community.
![[ CTG Page] Scholar's StoryImpact Stories.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/6465b3_65aa57e6d92b40e6bd2e4d3de2e24125~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_511,h_287,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/6465b3_65aa57e6d92b40e6bd2e4d3de2e24125~mv2.png)
Meet Shuchita and Melinda, a 2020 Closing The Gap Mentor-Mentee pair!
Shuchita initially learned about CTG from her secondary school teacher. She then applied to the programme, with the hopes of learning more about other post-SPM pathways beyond the typical options. At the start of the programme, Shuchita was determined to pursue Medicine and become a doctor.
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For Shuchita, the most meaningful impact of the programme was the connection she built with her assigned Mentor, Melinda. Melinda provide constant support to her mentee, particularly as Shuchita sat for her SPM examinations in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. The switch to online learning was difficult for Shuchita, but Melinda taught her to adapt and utilise available resources.
Melinda also supported Shuchita emotionally throughout and beyond the 2-year mentorship period, encouraging her growth and self-belief outside of academic pursuits.​
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But mentoring is never truly a one-way street. The mentorship journey for Melinda was just as beautiful and fulfilling as it was for Shuchita. While Shuchita sees Melinda as someone to look up to, Melinda was also learning and growing alongside her mentee throughout their journey together. This stint strongly shaped her personal understanding of being a supportive, older female figure in other young girls' lives. CTG's guidelines and standards on safeguarding, boundaries and thoughtful engagement have also influenced Melinda's own professional approach in working with young women.
"I understand that doctors usually see patients once and move on, but nurses are the ones who are always there for them, witnessing their recovery. It is truly a very satisfying job."
Shuchita
Scholar
Stories
For insight into some of our scholars including their work, livelihoods, and their involvement in the YTAR community, see their stories below.