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Love Unscripted: Andy & Cheryl

Cast as Mary and Joseph in a 1987 Christmas performance, Ms Cheryl Ng (Arts & Social Sciences ’85) and Mr Andy Sim (GDipSA ‘85) first played a married couple—before writing their own love story offstage.

Tell us how you met.

Andy: We met in 1987 while serving in a Christmas cantata. I played Joseph and Cheryl was Mary. What began as a stage performance became our real-life love story.

Cheryl: It reminds us that beautiful things can happen when we dare to step out of our comfort zones and meet new people.

What were your first impressions of each other?

Andy: I was drawn to her kindness and the way she led the drama team with both competence and heart.

Cheryl: He was thoughtful and steady, with a quiet confidence that made people feel at ease.

Do you remember your first date? What stood out to you?

Andy: Our first date was dinner at Ponderosa. We talked until closing time. The conversation felt effortless and genuine.

Cheryl: What stood out was how natural it felt. There was sincerity in our conversation and a shared curiosity about the future.

Was there a particular moment that made you realise you wanted a future together?

Andy: It wasn’t a single dramatic moment, but a growing conviction that we could build something meaningful together.

Cheryl: I realised we shared similar values and a desire to grow, not just individually, but as a team.

In what ways has your partner helped you grow?

Andy: Cheryl encourages me to become a better version of myself. From her, I’ve learned to love more unconditionally and to be more generous.

Cheryl: He challenges me to think bigger and to pursue purpose with courage.

What do you appreciate most about your partner?

Andy: I appreciate that she loves me as I am, while gently encouraging me to grow. That gives me the space to become who I am meant to be.

Cheryl: I appreciate his steadiness and his commitment to always working through challenges together.

What is your best relationship advice?

Andy: Try to out-love each other. Focus on giving as much as receiving, so that giving feels like a privilege rather than a sacrifice.

Cheryl: Choose each other daily, especially in the small things.