Founder, Starfish Singapore

Nur Aqilah

She didn’t wait for change to happen. Instead, she built a movement that listens, uplifts, and redefines success. Nur Aqilah is the Founder of Starfish Singapore, a ground-up initiative turned full-fledged charity that supports out-of-school youth through free academic coaching and holistic mentorship. 

Since 2015, Starfish has helped students, especially those preparing for their N(T)-level exams to rediscover their self-worth and find their way back into the education system. More than just tuition, Starfish is a safe space. 

For Aqilah, redefining success in Singapore means looking beyond grades and recognising the quiet resilience behind every second chance. The decision to transition from a volunteer-run initiative to a staffed charity was a turning point. It was a leap of faith after nearly a decade, but one that marked a commitment to scale the mission, reach more youth, and build long-term impact.

Her biggest lesson? Every youth has a story. And the work begins by listening. From a grassroots effort to a formalised organisation, Aqilah’s journey is proof that small actions when driven by purpose can ripple into powerful change.