Community event + participation example

SMU SOA Run Event Case Study in Singapore

The SMU SOA Run used games stations, Bubble Soccer, and a gladiator challenge inside a half-day fundraising event. It is a useful example for organisers planning a broader participation event rather than a pure office team-building session.

Event shape

Participation came first

The activities worked as engagement points within the wider event rather than replacing the broader programme.

Why it stands out

Games supported a bigger purpose

The format was used to help drive donations and energy around the Student Fund launch.

Best planning lesson

A shorter event can still feel lively

You do not need a full-day schedule for the day to feel active and memorable.

What happened

A strong example of activities supporting a wider event objective

The SOA Run brought together students, professors, and alumnae to announce the launch of a student fund for those facing financial difficulties.

Instead of building the day around one long team-building block, the event used games stations, Bubble Soccer, and a gladiator challenge to encourage participation and help support fundraising.

That makes this a useful planning reference for organisers balancing atmosphere, interaction, and a wider event purpose instead of aiming for a standard office team day.

What the event included

  • Half-day event format.
  • Audience included students, professors, and alumnae.
  • Student Fund launch for students facing financial difficulties.
  • Games stations tied into donations.
  • Bubble Soccer and a gladiator challenge were part of the programme.
  • Cohesion staff supported donation-raising through the Bubble Soccer station.

Why this format worked

Why this format worked for the brief

It supported a broader event, not just a single game session

That makes the format more flexible when the organiser needs flow, visibility, and open participation across the day.

The activities created energy without overcomplicating the schedule

Stations and short-format play make it easier for people to join, watch, and re-enter the event at different points.

The interactive element gave the fundraiser more momentum

The games helped make the day feel more alive than a static announcement or donation drive alone.

Planning takeaways

What other organisers can take from this

1

Match the game format to the event purpose

If the day is about turnout and participation, open-format stations are often a better fit than one long closed session.

2

Use activity points to keep energy moving

Shorter interactive modules can help the crowd stay engaged across a broader programme.

3

Half-day events can still feel substantial

A well-shaped activity mix can make a shorter event feel lively without overextending the audience.

Planning something similar?

Useful next steps if your event needs participation and movement

If you are shaping a school, activation, or community event and want a format that is easy to join, these are the best pages to continue with.

Next step

Turn this kind of event into a plan that fits your own team.

Use the planner if you want a sharper recommendation on format, energy level, and event shape, or contact Cohesion directly if you already want pricing.