Karla and Kevin first crossed paths in 2022 while pursuing postgraduate studies at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP). Karla, working toward a Master in Public Policy, and Kevin, enrolled in the Master in Public Administration programme, came from different academic tracks. However, a chance conversation at a friend’s birthday party revealed a shared passion for leadership and collaboration. Both were running for Class President of their respective cohorts, and what started as a friendly exchange of ideas soon grew into a deeper connection.

Kevin Le Huynh (MPA 2023) and Karla Yu (MPP 2024)

Collaboration Through Campus Initiatives

Their shared interests naturally led to collaboration on campus initiatives. One of their earliest successes was the Policy Hackathon, where they developed a winning proposal for the nonprofit Daughters of Tomorrow. Later, they co-organised LKYSPP’s Sports Get-Together, an event that brought students and faculty together and became a lasting tradition for the school. The event symbolised everything they valued about their time at the school: collaboration, camaraderie, and shared purpose. Seeing their peers come together to play, cheer, and connect left a lasting impression on them.

For Karla and Kevin, the Sports Get-Together wasn’t just an event—it was an experience that deepened their relationship and reflected their shared commitment to bringing people together. It was the perfect example of how teamwork, ideas, and friendship came together at LKYSPP.

Friendships Built at College Green

Living at College Green provided even more opportunities to connect. Karla and Kevin often joined group dinners, celebrated festivals like Diwali and Holi, and explored Singapore with friends—cycling through parks or taking leisurely walks through the adjacent Botanic Gardens. Spending time together outside the classroom helped them build a friendship based on respect and shared experiences.

Events like the Festival of Ideas, a bi-annual LKYSPP event, further enriched their connection. Listening to panel discussions on global issues often sparked long conversations about their dreams and how they could make a difference. These moments reinforced a partnership rooted in curiosity, ambition, and a drive to make a difference.

Carrying Forward the Values of LKYSPP

Today, Karla and Kevin carry forward the values they nurtured at LKYSPP. Both work in development finance and sustainability, focusing on projects that tackle climate change and promote social equity. Their partnership, born from shared experiences and common goals, continues to inspire their professional journeys.