Portraits of the Pandemic: Cooped up for months, migrant workers found silver lining from kind Singaporeans
Click to read my article!
Multimedia Stories
Portraits in a Pandemic series: Migrant Workers in Singapore
This is a series initiated by Singapore Kindness Movement, posted on The Pride as an article that accompanies the main video (posted on YouTube).
Series showcases the people behind the pandemic that were the backbone of Singapore.
The main is the video, accompanied by an article and the usual pictures provide visuals to words.
What did I do?
This multimedia story came in the form of an article to accompany a storytelling video with exclusive pictures behind the scenes to carry the visuals of the article.
The shoot had a lot of preparation beforehand and was finally set to film on a Sunday (their only day off). I worked as the producer and grip during the production.
I also took many photographs of the dormitory to accompany my article, as I speak to them to get some quotes.
Sharing clothes
With hundreds of men living in one block, clothes tend to get lost and many end up sharing what they own with one another.
Rooftop hangout with neighbouring dorms
Many of the dorms were right next to each other like neighbouring blocks, and were only a fence away from each other.
Spreading fear from neighbouring dorms
Even confined in their own dormitories, many feel fear when they hear ambulance sirens passing through the streets everyday, hoping their friends from other dorms are okay.
Donated gym equipment for dorms
Every gym equipment in the image was donated by Singaporeans to help these men stay fit and active amidst the circuit breaker in April 2021.
Swing set donated by individuals
Also pictured in a photo essay by Straits Times, dorms were donated by members of the public various entertainment and relaxing things they could use.
Laundry done on the rooftop
With barely any space for themselves, they hang their washed clothes on the rooftop that is also used as their canteen and even gymnasium.
Friends amidst in the pandemic
Ruben (extreme left) met Hope Alliance volunteer Sam (extreme right) just outside the gates of the dorms. Sam was there to give out food to these men during the fasting month.
Staying positive
Rahmatul (pictured) believes everything happens for a reason and does not want to let fear overcome is entire will to live.
Having a best friend despite changes
Rubel (left) was inspired by his friend Rahmatul (right) to lead a better life, like going back to school and staying fit.
