More Than a Scholarship: My MILK Experience

Written by Ang Zi Qiang, MILK Scholar (Polytechnic) and recent graduate from Nanyang Polytechnic. Zi Qiang will be enlisting in the Army this year (2025) as part of his National Service (NS). He intends to continue his studies upon completion of NS.

A memorable time together with fellow Scholars, MILK Alumni and CEO Afiq!

This was my last week of school which is also my last week before graduating from polytechnic, marking the close of one chapter and the beginning of another. Through my studies at the Polytechnic, I have been fortunate to receive the MILK Scholarship, which has allowed me to focus on my studies while also taking up leadership roles in my CCA. It allowed me to explore and gain invaluable experiences, connecting me with so many amazing people. I am also looking forward to graduation and embarking on my next steps completing National Service and continuing my studies thereafter.

Regularly, MILK and the Scholars team organize events and the recent Scholars Engagement Dinner at Ela, Jalan Sultan, was one of them. It was a wonderful evening where we had the chance to connect with fellow scholars

A highlight of the night was meeting Afiq, the 29-year-old CEO of The Black Hole Group. He shared his journey from being an intern to becoming a CEO. His story was inspiring—he originally planned to study geography at university, but after an injury, he found his passion for food and switched to culinary arts. Afiq’s story reminded me that life’s path isn’t always fixed and with passion and hard work, we can end up in unexpected but rewarding places.

It was also a pleasure meeting Trish, a new member of the MILK Team, and welcoming her. It was inspiring to hear about her journey from corporate work to social enterprise and her desire to do more, which led her to join the MILK Team.