Spot-on Service: Inner Wheel Club of Singapore Central Celebrates 8th Installation

The Inner Wheel Club of Singapore Central marked a magnificent milestone by celebrating its eighth installation ceremony on 31 July 2026. Held at the York Hotel Singapore, the venue was beautifully transformed into a vibrant canvas of endless connections. Inspired by avant-garde Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, the evening’s creative theme centered around her famous polka dots, symbolizing how individual lives intersect in meaningful ways.

The high-energy evening kicked off with a grand welcome for distinguished dignitaries, setting a prestigious tone. Attendees included Guest of Honour Dr. Ritu Jain (President of DEBRA Singapore), Her Excellency Jessica Lopez Pina (Ambassador of Venezuela), District Chairman Lipika Bhattacharya, and National Representative Janet Lim. The ballroom was filled to capacity, buzzing with past international board directors, past district chairmen, dedicated Rotarians, and supportive families.

The formal proceedings began with heritage and reflection. Club members Leng and Catherine Gwee stepped forward to light the traditional Candle of Friendship, accompanied by a moving poetry recital that captivated the audience. Following this reflective pause, the room shifted into high spirits with three traditional toasts celebrating unity, fellowship, and a shared purpose.

The night also marked a monumental turning point for the club's leadership. Outgoing President Natasha Karanjia addressed the audience with heartfelt emotion, reflecting on a remarkable year defined by a legacy of service and tireless dedication. In a seamless transition, the official installation of incoming President Puja Surtani took place. In her inspiring inaugural address, President Puja shared a visionary roadmap for the upcoming year. Her words were met with resounding applause and promises of full support from club members eager to embark on this new chapter of community impact.

The true spirit of generosity took centre stage throughout the entire evening. Guests eagerly participated in a high-stakes charity fundraiser, competing to take home exclusive, Kusama-inspired centerpieces decorating each table. Attendees scanned digital QR codes to donate generously, with all proceeds directed straight to the club's critical community service projects and charity work.

The festive atmosphere remained electric thanks to a stellar live performance by Cat Ong, a legendary fixture of the Singapore music scene since the 1970s. Her incredible musical journey set the stage for an exciting round of raffle draws. Lucky winners walked away with luxury prizes provided by Bacha Coffee, Elizabeth Arden, Rituals, Forest Essentials, and a handheld Dyson fan.

The emotional pinnacle arrived during a deeply moving address by Guest of Honour Dr. Ritu Jain. As a faculty member at Nanyang Technological University, Dr. Jain shared her profound personal journey advocating for families battling Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) - a rare, painful skin condition. Her poignant words reminded every guest that each single act of service acts as a vital dot, connecting isolated communities to a larger canvas of hope and healing.

The unforgettable night concluded with a delightful burst of fashion and fun as the best-dressed guest was announced, celebrating an attendee who truly brought Kusama's avant-garde spirit to life. With fresh leadership, renewed vows of friendship, and a room full of dedicated hearts, the Inner Wheel Club of Singapore Central proved once again that its circle of care has no end.