Yaho! More behind-the-scenes footage from Chingay 2010! Today I bring you AME College! AME actually stands for Age Management N Enrichment – It’s an educational centre where senior citizens get together and learn skills like catwalking and poem writing, etc. It’s called “Ai Ling Xue Yuan” in Mandarin.

This bunch of elderly folks brought nothing but joy and love into my few hours at the rehearsal. Their colourful hand-made costumes stand out from a mile away. But what was brighter than all that was their smiles and joy. Joining Chingay has been an exciting journey for them. It may be tiring, but this never-say-die bunch of feisty uncles and aunties automatically take 20 years off their age with their optimistic outlook on life and Active Ageing Activities.

When I interviewed them casually (with my broken Mandarin) during the second Chingay Samba Party rehearsal just to get soundbites, I was taken aback by their enthusiasm in Chingay and participation in the Centre’s activities. They had one unanimous voice- they were very grateful to the centre for organizing activities for them, and through that getting to join Chingay. It was extremely heartwarming to hear them tell me so much and so passionately about AME college.

It was really a joy talking and chatting with them. I just have a thing for old people. Watching them wave to the crowd in their flashy costumes with such pride and honour, dancing a few rounds round the field in PA HQ despite their age, it really melts my heart. Watching them even makes me feel younger.

All they way, AME!!!!

Myokii