How DSA turned mismatched socks into a record-breaking statement on inclusion

The Down Syndrome Association (Singapore) (DSA) marked its 30th anniversary with a record-breaking public activation centred on mismatched socks, as it rallied community support and raised funds for its programmes.

Held on 28 March 2026 at the Suntec Singapore Tower 1 and 2 atrium, the event brought together more than 500 participants, including families, schools, community partners and members of the public, in a successful Singapore Book of Records attempt for the largest gathering of people wearing mismatched socks.

The initiative formed the centrepiece of DSA’s World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) carnival, which ran from 23 to 29 March at Suntec Singapore. The campaign tapped the globally recognised symbol of mismatched socks, representing chromosomes, to celebrate diversity and the uniqueness of individuals with Down syndrome.

Don't miss: SG Enable urges Singaporeans to look beyond disabilities

Observed worldwide on 21 March, WDSD draws attention to the triplication of chromosome 21 that results in Down syndrome. DSA leveraged the moment to drive awareness, participation and fundraising around its theme for this year’s celebration, “Our DSA heart – A lifetime of love”.

Beyond the record attempt, the 28 March event featured a full-day programme of performances and community activities, alongside a walk symbolising unity and partnership.

Performances by DSA members, partner organisations and participating schools, including Little Footprints Preschool @ Admiralty, Edgefield Secondary School, ISS International School, James Cook University and North Vista Secondary School, showcased a range of talent spanning dance, music, martial arts and percussion.

The event also saw the launch of the inaugural DSA Awards 2026, a new national platform recognising the talents, achievements and contributions of individuals with Down syndrome across areas such as the arts, education, employment, advocacy and sport.

The association said the awards aim to spotlight real stories of achievement, inspire the community and encourage broader public understanding.

Guest-of-honour Eric Chua, senior parliamentary secretary for the Ministry of Law and Ministry of Social and Family Development, attended the event and engaged with participants, families and performers.

“In building a ‘We first’ society, we want to foster a community where we look out for one another. This is not new to Singapore, but something we must continue to build through our everyday actions and strong partnerships across the community,” he said.

The 28 March celebration formed part of a wider series of activities DSA organised throughout March to commemorate WDSD.

As the national representative agency for the Down syndrome community, the association said it plays a key role in supporting individuals and their families, raising public awareness and working with community partners to build a more inclusive society in Singapore.

“This year is particularly meaningful as DSA marks its 30th anniversary,” said Jonathan Seow, chairperson of DSA (Singapore). “What we see here — the participation, the performances and the support from schools and the wider community — reflects how far we have come, and the kind of inclusive society we are continuing to build together.”

In tandem, Evelyn Lai, executive director of DSA (Singapore) said, “For 30 years, DSA (Singapore) has worked with the community to serve and support persons with Down syndrome and their families,” added

“This milestone is an opportunity to celebrate how far we have progressed together, share our refreshed direction in meeting the evolving needs of the community, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that individuals with Down syndrome have access to the support and opportunities needed to fulfil their potential and enjoy a good quality of life at every stage of life," she added. 

The activation also comes amid a broader push by brands and organisations in Singapore to champion inclusion and support people with disabilities through long-term partnerships. Most recently, Singapore heritage brand Yeo Hiap Seng (Yeo’s) partnered with the Singapore Disability Sports Council (SDSC) in August to support athletes with disabilities, reinforcing a shared commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in sport.

The year-long collaboration, running from 1 August 2025 to 31 July 2026, channels funds into programmes including training, nutrition, sports science and transportation. This marks Yeo’s first partnership with SDSC, as both organisations look to create long-term impact and help youths realise their sporting potential.

Earlier efforts have also focused on shifting public perceptions through storytelling. In February 2025, MINDS launched its “My way” public education campaign to raise awareness and celebrate the abilities of persons with intellectual disabilities.

The campaign spotlighted individuals such as Muhammad Ramlee bin Jamal, Johannes Cheong and Anna Ow, highlighting their personal journeys and contributions while encouraging greater understanding and inclusion across society.

Be part of #Content360 Singapore, 22–23 April 2026, where creativity and culture collide. Explore how AI-driven storytelling is shaping the future of content, gain practical insights, discover new tactics, and learn how the best in Asia are creating campaigns that truly resonate. 

Related articles: 
Mastercard puts the spotlight on autism with hidden disabilities campaign  
Astro launches inclusive campaign, improves streaming for the visually impaired  
This campaign for Down Syndrome wants to challenge your assumptions