Every student’s journey at OWIS Nanyang is unique, but for Grade 11 students Toby, Vandana, Sam, and George, one thing stands out above all else: the sense of community that has grown alongside them over the years.
Watch their video:
Having joined OWIS between Grades 3 and 5, the four friends have watched the school evolve while growing up together. Looking back, they describe a campus that has become increasingly diverse, bringing together students from different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. Yet despite that growth, they believe one thing has remained constant—a welcoming environment where everyone feels connected.
For them, some of the most memorable experiences come from school events that bring the community together. Whether it’s Book Week, where students dress up as their favourite characters, or International Day, where students celebrate cultures through performances, food, and traditional attire, these moments create opportunities for self-expression and collaboration.
Beyond the events themselves, the group reflects on how OWIS has shaped them as individuals. Confidence, discipline, kindness, and open-mindedness are qualities they believe have developed naturally through their years at school. Classroom presentations helped build confidence. Academic challenges encouraged perseverance. Most importantly, being surrounded by people from around the world taught them to listen, learn, and appreciate different perspectives.
The friendships they have formed are equally important. While everyone has their own circle of friends, they describe a culture where students know and support one another across different groups. New students are welcomed, questions are encouraged, and no one is made to feel excluded.
As they continue their IBDP journey, the four friends share a common appreciation for the experiences that have shaped them. From study sessions and school events to everyday conversations and laughter, their story reflects what makes OWIS Nanyang special: a community where students grow together while celebrating what makes each person unique.
