Getting to Know NICA

Just recently, we highlighted how freelancers have been a fast-growing segment of our workforce.



With a particular focus on helping advance the interests of freelancers teaching sports, enrichment and wellness in the schools and communities, a National Instructors and Coaches Association (NICA) is about to be formed with support from the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC).



The aim here is to give freelancers a stronger voice so they can better represent themselves, more effectively address work issues and enhance their work prospects.


Who’s Eligible?
For now, NICA membership is open to Sport Singapore, People’s Association and Co-Curricular Activity (CCA) coaches or instructors in the fields of sports and fitness, music and dance as well as personal wellness.


Estimates from NTUC indicate that there are over 5,000 fulltime freelancers in these fields.


What’s in it for Members?
For a start, NICA members will have access to an insurance product that will help mitigate the loss of income in the event of prolonged medical leave. This will be made available at a special 50 per cent off for the first year.


Additionally, members will also get access to a full suite of benefits offered by NTUC. This includes insurance coverage against death and total permanent disability under NTUC GIFT, a group insurance policy exclusively for NTUC members; $250 in training support under the Union Training Assistance Programme, an individual skills upgrading account for NTUC members; access to profession-relevant masterclasses and courses; as well as exclusive deals and discounts from merchant partners, among others.


The Fees
Annual membership is $117. This works out to $9 a month from January to November and $18 in December. As proof of membership, NICA members will receive an NTUC card.


Joining NICA
NICA will be organising a membership roadshow at the NTUC U FSE Freelancers Fair (admission is free for freelancers) on Thursday 6 September 2018 at Marina Bay Sands. To find out more, visit The Future of Work website, follow U FSE on Facebook or email fseu@ntuc.org.sg to register.