Continuing our series of introductions to our Directors who are working behind the scenes to drive SG’s strategic direction we would like to introduce Clarence Yap, Vice President.

Clarence has carved his niche over two decades in Sports and Cultural Events and Marketing, marrying his skills with his two life passions, sports and music.

As a sports administrator in Singapore Sports Council’s Sports Business Division, he was responsible for some of Singapore’s successful bids to host international events including the first FINA/Arena Swimming World Cup 2007, and the Netball World Championships in 2011, beating traditional Netball giants Australia for hosting rights.

As Head of Music Programming at Esplanade-Theatres on the Bay, he helped to define the national arts centre’s musical heart for 8 years. He worked with his team of Programmers to provide a range of music experiences for Singapore audiences. Working with talents from around the world inspired him to play a part in developing Singaporean musicians, and he has set out to draw on his arts management experience towards this goal.

He set out on his own in 2015 as a cultural entrepreneur who has sought to impact the music landscape in Singapore, establishing music education collective The Music Circle as well as helping Singapore music artists build audiences outside Singapore with Umami Sounds.

Besides his expertise in media and communications, Clarence has been called upon to mediate in conflict situations, because of his ability to facilitate dialogue and help both parties keep a balanced view.

Clarence believes that everyone has to pay a part in making the gymnastics fraternity stronger, and has been serving the community in different capacities since 2014, on organising committees for the various competitions and Gymfest events, as well as consulting for the Board and Secretariat on communications and media matters. Clarence joined the SG Board in 2016 as Assistant Secretary, and served on the Fundraising and PR Sub-committee from 2017 to 2019.

As a parent of a national gymnast, he understands the challenges parents face in supporting and bringing up an aspiring athlete in Singapore, and is always willing to share experiences and lessons learned to help others navigate the rollercoaster ride that comes with being a gym dad.