Luzerne marks SG60 with handcrafted tribute and a call for mental health awareness

The SG60 Diamond Collection aims to honour Singapore's 60 years of independence, while supporting charity efforts. "My hope is that through awareness, compassion, and open dialogue, we can break the stigma and better support those who are silently struggling to seek help with no prejudice," said CEO Elaine Lek.

Homegrown tableware brand Luzerne has launched an SG60 Diamond Collection – a commemorative range of specially designed and handcrafted ceramic plates and cups that depict milestones of Singapore’s progress over six decades, telling the story of Singapore through the artistry of porcelain.

Unveiled on 8 July at an event attended by HRO, the collection, which celebrates Singapore's 60 years of independence, includes:

• The SG60 Diamond Plate (60 pieces of 50cm commemorative plates that will be donated to charity),
• The SG60 Singapura Plate (30cm plates),
• The SG60 Singapura six-Plate Set (a set of six 16cm plates), and
• The SG60 Kopi Set (six espresso cups and saucers in a boxed set).

Speaking at the launch event, Elaine Lek, Chief Executive Officer, Luzerne, said the company will donate all 60 of the 50cm commemorative plates to charity, with the objective of raising S$600,000 for charitable causes with a focus on mental health.

She said: "This initiative is deeply personal to me. As co-founder of the PleaseStay. Movement, speaking up on youth mental health and suicide prevention has never been a choice – it is a responsibility I carry.

"My hope is that through awareness, compassion, and open dialogue, we can break the stigma and better support those who are silently struggling to seek help with no prejudice."

Luzerne shared that fundraising for the plates, under Community Chest

Fundraising for the plates under Community Chest Singapore (ComChest) will be conducted online, with minimum donations starting at S$2,688 per plate.

When asked about how the approach will play a part in Luzerne's employer brand, Lek tells HRO: "I'm very vocal on mental health and suicide prevention. A lot of people [talk about] mental wellness, but suicide prevention is something that nobody wants to talk about. And I'm very open, so I believe that in being open about this, normalising a conversation, we will attract the youths who are struggling.

"[They would say], 'hey, I would like to work for a company like that because I will not ever be marginalised. I will have equal opportunities and more understanding employers.'"

A quick look at the SG60 Diamond Collection

Check out HRO's peek at the full collection here, or by clicking on the image below.

The Collection was conceptualised and painted by Associate Professor Ng Woon Lam, a Singaporean artist, international award-winning watercolourist and Dolphin Fellowship awardee of the American Watercolour Society.

Professor Ng’s philosophy for his art is based on Taiji, where he constantly searches for balance and harmony in depicting the dynamic nature of life. His painting style leans towards Chinese calligraphy strokes. Having lived through Singapore’s progress, Professor Ng’s portrayal of Singapore’s milestones is captivating and endearing, accurately depicting the heart of its people.

Photos and video: Journalist's own