The Tsunami has not only swept away entire families but has also taken many beautiful places where people once stayed, the homes where children played, where generations have earned their keep from the land and the sea. What is left behind is a barren landscape but not a barren spirit.

With abundant international aid pouring into the reconstruction work to rebuild lives and communities, the “Rebuilding Lives” exhibition is one such local response to this disaster. Staged in the form of a photo exhibition, the photos depict the beauty and serenity of life in the areas before they were affected by the Tsunami. This collection of images is contributed by the Youth Expedition Program Alumni. A program which sees local youths travel beyond their shores to do volunteer work.

The images on display depict scenes of everyday life. From fishing towns, stretches of beaches, ports filled with vibrancy and activity, children running about with a shimmer of hope in their eyes to the beautiful glow of the sunset, these images serve to remind us of what was there before and how much work must be put in to heal the wounds of this disaster.

From the seas of Sri Lanka, to the beaches of Thailand, the Tsunami’s aftermath is a scar that will take a long time to recover. Things will never be the same again. The cultural richness of some countries have been taken away by the sea. Even if towns are rebuilt, its fabric and its people will never fully recover what was lost.

“Rebuilding Lives” creates awareness of this loss. Through the glimpses of the past, we see a beauty and tranquility that money cannot buy. And yet in the present day situation, monetary aid is perhaps the best way that we can do our part to help people rebuild the past and their future. Join the Youth Expedition Program Alumni to rebuild lives through their spirit by making it your spirit.

Rebuilding Lives
Date: February 17th – March 19th, 2005
Place: Singapore International Foundation Pacific Gallery
Address: Park Mall, 9 Penang Road, Singapore 238459
Tel: +65 6837 8700
https://www.sif.org.sg