Young Singaporeans seek new beginnings abroad as pandemic restrictions reshape their social lives and career aspirations
PR executive Patricia Foo, like many other young Singaporeans, feels the pandemic restrictions robbed them of their early twenties, a time traditionally marked by freedom and exploration. Now 25, she, along with others, is making plans to move abroad, hoping for a more vibrant social life and new professional opportunities. While Singapore has eased some restrictions, like lifting curfews and allowing larger group sizes, many believe it’s too late.
Josh, a 25-year-old lawyer, relocated to London, while others, like Nicole, a DJ and crypto-investor, moved to Dubai, where nightlife and fewer restrictions offer more freedom. These young professionals are choosing countries that match their aspirations for adventure and career advancement, leaving Singapore behind, at least for now.
Patricia’s friends have also dispersed worldwide, many to cities like New York or Switzerland, where restrictions were not as long-lasting. She’s planning her own move to Italy, largely influenced by the inability to form meaningful social connections during the pandemic.
The pandemic has significantly altered what young adulthood looks like. Instead of balancing work and social life, many have experienced isolation, restrictions on nightlife, and limitations on travel. The absence of personal interaction, once a vital part of youth, has driven many to consider relocating for better professional and social opportunities.
For others, like 27-year-old Justin, the pandemic emphasized the need to seek professional growth while still enjoying youthful freedom. He believes moving abroad offers both career advancement and the exploration of life, something many feel has been on hold for too long in Singapore.
The restrictions have not only disrupted social lives but also altered the dynamics at home. For many young people, living with family while working from home has made the lines between personal and professional lives blurry, causing them to yearn for a change. Some, like Alfonso, who completed his entire Junior College experience during the pandemic, feel they’ve missed critical milestones, including graduation ceremonies and travel.
Restrictions on nightlife, such as curfews and limits on group sizes, have also impacted those in the entertainment and creative industries. While travel restrictions and bans on live performances left the industry in silence, many foreign creatives, like Caroline, an engineer and photographer, have left Singapore due to the restrictive environment. Young individuals are moving abroad, seeking not just freedom, but new beginnings where their talents and careers can thrive without the restrictions imposed by the pandemic.
