Katong Culture is a community-driven initiative dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the rich heritage of the Katong–Joo Chiat precinct. Conceptualized as an interest group under the Joo Chiat Community Club Management Committee in 2021 and officially formed in 2022, we bring together residents, stakeholders, and cultural enthusiasts with a shared passion for heritage and sustainability. Today, Katong Culture serves as the anchor partner for the National Heritage Board’s Heritage Activation Node (HAN) @ Katong–Joo Chiat, a key initiative under Our SG Heritage Plan 2.0.
Our Team
Established in 2022 by Gavin Chan, Katong Culture is a crystallization of more than a decade of community work by the tireless advocates working to make Katong – Joo Chiat a better place. It is supported by the Joo Chiat Community Club and our founding members comprise of grassroots volunteers from the community. Our core team comprises:
Today, Katong Culture is supported by more than 50 active volunteers, guides and advocates, and is driven by the core team
Our Commitment to Heritage
We believe that heritage is not just about the past—it’s about creating meaningful connections for the future. Through curated experiences, educational programs, and cultural showcases, we strive to make Katong’s unique identity accessible to all generations and our mission is to:
Record & Preserve: Document living memories, oral histories, and visual snapshots of Katong–Joo Chiat’s evolving identity.
Promote & Experience: Curate immersive cultural experiences, from heritage trails to culinary showcases, that allow residents and visitors to engage deeply with the precinct’s unique character.
Develop & Rejuvenate: Collaborate with stakeholders to enhance the physical and cultural infrastructure of the area, ensuring its heritage thrives alongside modernity.
What we do
Heritage Programming: Organize signature events, guided tours, and co-curated programs that spotlight local traditions and stories.
Community Partnerships: Work closely with grassroots networks, cultural associations, and local stakeholders to create inclusive heritage experiences.
Volunteer Engagement: Grow a pool of Heritage Champions who actively contribute to documentation and programming efforts.
Our Identity
Our logo features a leatherback turtle—a nod to Katong’s etymology—set against hues of blue and pink, symbolizing the cultural vibrancy of the precinct. This identity reflects our commitment to heritage, community, and sustainability.
Katong Culture 