Community Corner:
How this association is keeping the community spirit high.
Meet a friendly face from the British Association
In a time when support systems have never been more critical, we’re grateful for the networks that keep our homesick spells at bay. We meet EDITH BLYTH, Chair of the British Association of Singapore, to see how the group has adapted to a new world while continuing to be a lifeline for those far away from home.
Tell us about yourself! What brought you to Singapore?
I arrived in 2014 with my husband on his job transfer. This was our first stint abroad, and we thought it would only last a couple of years; but it’s now been a fantastic seven! In that time, we’ve lived in several corners of Singapore including Kembangan, Balmoral Park and Marina Bay.
Like most of us, you’ve been grounded since early 2020. How’s it going? Any new hobbies?
Yes! I discovered Mahjong and the popular card game “May I?”, both of which I’ve been enjoying. My husband and I have also learnt to embrace the pace. We enjoy early morning and late evening walks around the bay and never tire of the iconic views lit up at night. It’s a delight to see so many people strolling, cycling and jogging!
How did you get involved with the British Association of Singapore?
As a keen golfer, I looked into a joining a group when I arrived in Singapore to meet new people and make the most of the courses here. I came across the BA online and was lucky to be handed a copy of their Beam magazine, which mentioned a Wednesday golf group. I joined immediately and was made to feel very welcome over the years. This truly made me realise the benefit of being part of an association. Little did I know where it would lead! I was eventually asked to become Membership Secretary and, in 2018, the Chairperson.
Last year must have been a challenge; how did the association weather the storm?
I stayed on the extra year to help steer us through the pandemic, but the BA is mostly run by volunteers who’ve all been amazing! We did everything to keep the sense of community going, from
Zoom meetings and WhatsApp groups to quizzes, virtual pub crawls and cinema clubs. Once things started to open up, we introduced lunches and afternoon teas, as well as Mahjong games at hosted homes. Our Beginners’ Golf Group and lessons with Lee Carrington have also been very popular – we’ll be starting up another group soon.
Tell us about some of the fantastic work you do with charities.
We’re always trying to give back to the community. Our volunteers work with Riding for the Disabled, Star Pals and a monthly beach clean-up, as well as mentoring and teaching students. We currently support four charities in Singapore and can’t wait to have events again to start raising funds.
How can newbies get involved with the British Association?
Just reach out to us at membership@ britishassociation.org.sg! Newcomers are always welcome and there’s a weekly coffee morning on Thursdays if anyone needs an introduction to an activity or group. We have a strong tie with the British Club in Bukit Tinggi, too, which is where our tennis group meets. We also have an incredible volunteer who runs the monthly “meander” and always encourages us to explore new places in Singapore.
Any changes on the horizon for 2021?
After three years as Chair, I’ll be passing the baton to another member. But I’ll still be very much involved in the Council, so you’ll see me around! Sadly, our Beam editor will be leaving Singapore soon, too, but she leaves behind a great legacy and we’ll be announcing an exciting new addition to the team soon!