It’s easy to assume that the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) exists primarily for older workers, or those in traditional employment. But Natasha Choy, the Executive Secretary of Young NTUC, is keen to change that perception. A millennial herself, Natasha has seen how the world of work has shifted, not just through her professional lens but also by listening to the hopes, worries and frustrations of young people across Singapore. 

Since stepping into her role, Natasha, who is also an Industrial Relations Officer with over a decade of experience, has made it a point to centre youth voices in Young NTUC’s evolving mission, whether it’s by designing career preparation or financial literacy workshops, championing youth-led initiatives, or sitting down with youths to really understand what’s going on in young workers’ lives. 

In this interview, Natasha opens up about the unique perspectives she brings to the role, the realities young Singaporeans face today, and how Young NTUC is evolving to walk alongside them through their careers, finances, and mental well-being. 

As a young leader yourself, what unique perspectives do you bring to Young NTUC, and how do you feel these perspectives resonate with youths today? 

Natasha Choy: I’ve met youths from all walks of life. Some just starting out, others already facing setbacks like retrenchment or struggling to find their footing in a fast-changing world. I understand the pressure to succeed quickly, the uncertainty around jobs, and the desire to find meaningful work while managing finances and mental stress. 

How do you stay in tune with what matters most to youth today, especially when designing programmes around career, finance, and mental well-being? 

Natasha: I believe the best way to stay in tune is to listen. Whether through dialogues, mentorship sessions, or casual chats, I try to understand what excites and worries them. We also speak regularly with employers, educators, and community partners to get a broader view of the challenges youths face. These insights help us shape more holistic, relevant and effective programmes. 

As someone who’s grown up in a digital-first world, how do you incorporate this understanding into Young NTUC’s youth engagement strategies? 

Natasha: Being online is one thing. Showing up in the right spaces and in the right way is the other. Young NTUC uses platforms which youths are already engaged with, and we’re experimenting with short-form videos, social media campaigns, and real stories that reflect their lives. We also create safe spaces for open conversations, online and offline. Digital platforms are tools, yes—but it’s also a way to build trust and community. 

With your diverse experience in NTUC, first as an Industrial Relations Officer and now as Executive Secretary of Young NTUC, how do you feel NTUC has remained relatable to youths? 

Natasha: NTUC has adapted to stay relevant to youths by addressing their unique challenges, from securing first jobs to navigating career changes. We’ve introduced programs like the Sustainability Mentorship Programme to provide practical skills and mentorship. What keeps us relatable is our focus on listening, engaging, and co-creating opportunities that reflect the needs of youths 

What are some common challenges youths face in their career journeys, and how is Young NTUC helping? 

Natasha: Career uncertainty is a big one. Many are unsure of which paths to take, especially with the rise of Artificial Intelligence and a changing job market. Some feel pressure to figure things out quickly, while others worry their skills won’t stay relevant. 

Job security is another concern. I’ve met youths in their 20s who’ve already gone through retrenchment or contract jobs with little stability. These experiences shake confidence and make long-term planning hard. 

There’s also burnout from trying to juggle everything — success, finances, and mental health. At Young NTUC, we bridge these gaps through industry exposure, mentorship, and masterclasses that cover workplace rights and career resilience. Most importantly, we involve youths in shaping these efforts. We listen, co-create, and adapt as we go. 

With the growing focus on mental health, what support does NTUC offer to help youths manage work-life stress? 

Natasha: We know youths are juggling a lot. We’ve been intentional about including mental wellness in our support efforts.  Whether through resources, peer networks, or safe spaces to talk, we want to be there. We run mental well-being workshops where youths can hear from professionals and peers in a relatable, supportive environment. 

Why do you believe Young NTUC is uniquely positioned to be a ‘trusted friend’ to youths navigating career, finance, and life? 

Natasha: We bring together NTUC’s key value propositions (protection, progression, placement and privileges), and translate them into meaningful support for youths. Whether it’s guiding someone through their first job, helping them bounce back from retrenchment, or navigating burnout, we focus on what works, what matters, and what makes a difference. Support should be timely, relevant, and built around what youths actually face. Trust isn’t built overnight; it comes from being present, consistent, and real. That’s the kind of partner we strive to be. 

Some youths may see NTUC as ‘not for them.’ Why is it important to change that perception? 

Natasha: That’s a common perception we’ve heard, but NTUC is evolving, just like the workforce is. If young people write us off too early, they might miss out on real, timely support during key life moments such as landing their first job or navigating a career switch. Beyond support, NTUC stands for them. We speak up on youth career issues, shape policies that affect their future, and ensure their voices are heard. We don’t want to be seen as a last resort when things go wrong. We want youths to see NTUC as a reliable partner, one that grows with them, has their backs, and helps them thrive. 

How can youths partner with NTUC to shape future programmes? 

Natasha: Youths bring fresh ideas, bold energy, and a pulse on what’s next. We don’t just want them to take part—we want them to help shape what we do. That means co-creating programmes, giving real-time feedback, testing new ideas, or even leading initiatives they’re passionate about. Whether it’s through conversations on the ground or opinions shared online, their input keeps us focused and future-ready. And beyond just tapping into their ideas, NTUC is committed to evolving alongside our youths because they aren’t just contributors, they’re the core of tomorrow’s workforce. 

By Sng Ler Jun 

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity. 

Image credit: Young NTUC, Natasha Choy, and NTUC