YWCA of Singapore | 150 Years of Empowering Women

MEDIA RELEASE

SINGAPORE – 28 October 2025 – The Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Singapore, the nation’s first and longest-serving women’s charity, officially opened its heritage gallery, “Empowered by Love” in commemoration of its 150th Anniversary. This permanent gallery honours the organisation’s 150-year legacy of empowering women and strengthening communities in Singapore, while casting a bold vision for the future.

The gallery was officially opened by Guest-of-Honour – Mdm Halimah Yacob, Chancellor of the Singapore University of Social Sciences and Former President of the Republic of Singapore who participated in an engaging and personal fireside chat with the YWCA. The event was also graced by Special Guest – Audra Morrice, Chef, Author, TV Personality, and Advocate for Cultural Preservation.

Discover a Journey of Love and Service

Housed in the YWCA Fort Canning Hotel which is conveniently located close to Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station, visitors to YWCA’s “Empowered by Love” gallery are invited on a journey that connects the past, present, and future of YWCA’s mission. Guests will discover YWCA’s 150-year legacy of empowering women, relive the past through a re-creation of the 1923 Blue Triangle Lunch Room and displays of treasured artefacts. They will also be able to glimpse into the future through an inspiring look at the YWCA’s thoughtful plans for the future of women support and empowerment in Singapore. Designed with a selection of curated vintage furniture and elements inspired by YWCA’s historical spaces, the gallery also invites visitors to enjoy it as a chill-out space for relaxation, conversations and reflections.

Heritage of Answering Women’s Needs

Since 1875, YWCA of Singapore has championed women’s needs, advancing and enriching their lives and those of their families. Some of the firsts in Singapore include setting up a women’s lending library, night schools for educational needs, childcare centres that enable women to participate in the workforce, and hostels that provide safe lodging for women travellers transitioning in Singapore.

With each successive generation, YWCA has continually stood with the women of Singapore and evolved to serve the needs of their time — from past days where women sought literacy programmes and safe shelter, to today where women may be navigating more challenges such as single parenthood, or managing extraordinary caregiving responsibilities.

YWCA continues to drive women’s empowerment today through new initiatives under its newly-launched Hopemaker Movement, which affirms every woman as a “Creator of Hope” — whether she is a homemaker or working professional — recognising her pivotal role in nurturing families and shaping futures.

A key pillar of this movement is the Hopemaker: Women’s Business Accelerator (HWBA) programme which offers a comprehensive support ecosystem to equip women from challenging backgrounds (such as lower-income groups or caregivers) to build resilient, purpose-driven ventures. Participants undergo an 8-week course, followed by individualised mentorship from industry experts, opportunities to pitch to seed funders, and access to YWCA’s vibrant network of support.

The organisation’s vision for the future also includes the Hope Hub, a dynamic women’s space that will unite women-focused organisations, social enterprises, and partners to collaborate, innovate, and open new pathways of opportunity for women.

Sparking Conversations on Ensuring No Woman is Left Unsupported

In a time where the challenges of women are more complex than ever, conversations must be held to move the needle in women’s empowerment. A fireside chat with Guest-of-Honour, Mdm Halimah Yacob, connected YWCA’s 150 years of progressive service to the shifting needs of women and families in our society and what needs to be done to ensure no women is left isolated and unsupported.

Mdm Halimah Yacob spoke candidly about the experiences that have shaped her own journey as a wife, mother, career woman, and national leader. She also shared her hopes and concerns for women, and her vision for Singapore as we continue to evolve.

The conversation underscored the importance of continuous mindset shifts, shared responsibility in caregiving, and collective action so that no woman in Singapore feels isolated or unsupported.

YWCA Moving the Needle

The YWCA also announced plans to explore new initiatives that provide respite and support for women from all walks of life. The organisation aims to offer a sanctuary where women can take a much-needed break from family or work stresses – an accessible alternative to getaways which not all can afford.

Beyond respite care, YWCA also seeks to champion innovative approaches to work–life harmony. It plans to introduce a “half-time” work option within its own organisation, giving employees the flexibility to work half a week — a practical middle ground between part-time and full-time roles, which may not always suit women’s evolving needs today. This initiative aims to support women, particularly those caring for both children and ageing parents, in achieving greater balance across work, family, and personal well-being.

This progressive approach reflects YWCA’s commitment to empowering women through practical, inclusive, and forward-thinking solutions, with the hope of inspiring other organisations to embrace similar flexible work arrangements.

Culinary Heritage Unveiled: Launch of Heritage Menu

Adding a unique and flavourful dimension to the launch, a special lunch was held, featuring an exclusive food tasting of long-lost recipes from YWCA’s heritage cookery books. These include recipes from one of Singapore’s first cookbooks, the YWCA Cookery Book of Malaya, dating back to 1932. Guests had a taste of authentic dishes from decades ago that are currently unavailable anywhere else in Singapore.

The YWCA will be officially launching this unique heritage menu on the same day at its very own social enterprise, Café Lodge at YWCA Fort Canning, allowing the public to savour a piece of Singapore’s culinary history.

A Call to Partnership

As Singapore moves forward, the YWCA’s mission remains deeply relevant to women and families. The YWCA believes that when women thrive, families are strengthened and so does the broader community.

Ms Sim Hwee Hoon, President of YWCA of Singapore said, “Our new heritage gallery, “Empowered by Love” tells the story of our journey – capturing our legacy while looking ahead to the future. As we celebrate our 150th anniversary, we remain steadfast in our mission to serve Singapore through acts of love and service, and to stay future-oriented so that we can continue empowering women through every season of their lives. This gallery celebrates the courage of the women who built our legacy and seeks to inspire the next generation to carry it forward, ensuring that the YWCA remains a dynamic and relevant force for social good in Singapore.”

The YWCA of Singapore invites partners, members, and the wider community to visit the Heritage Gallery, rediscover YWCA’s role in Singapore’s story of women’s empowerment, and join hands in building upon a heritage of service, for a future of hope and resilience.

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About YWCA of Singapore

Since 1875, the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Singapore has empowered women and families of all races and religions through practical support that addresses both financial pressures and socioemotional wellbeing, along with a strong community to grow and thrive in.

Guided by its core principles of Serving with Love, Embracing Change, Strengthening Communities, and Empowering Lives, YWCA focuses on enabling women from different backgrounds to better manage caregiving responsibilities, strengthen family stability, and access new opportunities for growth.

YWCA operates a hospitality-based social enterprise through YWCA Fort Canning. All net profits from the hotel are channelled towards YWCA’s community services and programmes, furthering YWCA’s social mission, alongside the support of donors and partners.

To learn more or get involved, visit www.ywca.org.sg.

Media Contact:

Gerlynn Cai
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications
gerlynncai@ywca.org.sg
Mobile: 9792 9310
DID: 6223 1227 (ext 237)

Tan Su-Anne
Marketing Executive
tansuanne@ywca.org.sg
Mobile: 9760 2790
DID: 6223 8045

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MEDIA RELEASE

SINGAPORE – 29 August 2025 – The Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Singapore marked a significant milestone tonight with its 150th Anniversary Commemorative Dinner at the Conrad Singapore Orchard. The event was graced by Guest-of-Honour Minister Edwin Tong and his wife with close to 500 guests in attendance. Together, they honoured YWCA’s rich heritage of empowering women – and looked ahead to a bold new future.

Since its founding in 1875, YWCA has pioneered initiatives to empower women through education, community services and social support. From setting up Singapore’s first lending library for women, to night schools, childcare centres and women hostels, the organisation has continually evolved with the times, responding to the shifting needs of society. Through every season and era, YWCA has not only understood the needs of women but anticipated the challenges and opportunities ahead – helping them women grow, thrive and reach their full potential.

Redefining the Women in Need

As YWCA marks its 150th anniversary, it recognises that the needs of women continue to evolve and expand. It wishes to broaden traditional definition of women in need so as to address gaps and needs that may have gone unmet. While women in the past sought literacy programmes or safe shelter, “Today, she may be navigating single parenthood, caregiving responsibilities, rebuilding after job loss, or striving to keep her business afloat. Tomorrow, she may face challenges we cannot yet imagine,” highlighted Ms Sim Hwee Hoon, President of the YWCA of Singapore, during the anniversary dinner.

Reimagining Ways to Serve Women in Singapore

In line with this commitment to responsiveness, YWCA recently launched the Hopemaker Movement and the Women’s Business Accelerator Programme last month. This movement affirms every woman as a “Creator of Hope,” – for herself, her family and for society – providing a comprehensive support ecosystem for women on challenging journeys towards achieving financial stability. The pilot cohort, which has an intake of 22 participants, is already seeing a transformative impact among its aspiring Hopemakers. YWCA will continue to look at ways to serve women better in Singapore.

Renewed Look & Bold Vision for Tomorrow

Tonight, YWCA celebrated its enduring legacy and unveiled its vision for the future with a new logo. The refreshed design is a modern, approachable reflection of the organisation’s heritage. At its center, a blue triangle embodies the trinity of body, mind, and spirit – the wholeness YWCA envisions for every woman. Two converging triangles represent its dreams and skyward aspirations, and its core values of love and service, derived from its motto “By Love Serve One Another”. Together, the three triangles subtly form a “W,” a quiet but powerful tribute to “Women” who remain the very heart of YWCA’s mission. This refreshed branding ushers YWCA into a new season in Singapore to meet new changes, marking bold plans and a renewed commitment to empowering women and strengthening communities in ever more meaningful and impactful ways.

Redesigning Her Future Through a New Hope Hub

YWCA is envisioning a bold future: transforming its historic headquarters at Outram Road into a new Hope Hub — a vibrant sanctuary where women and families facing diverse challenges can find strength, support, and community. More than a building, Hope Hub will be a dynamic women’s hub, bringing together women-focused organisations, social enterprises, and partners to collaborate, innovate, and create new opportunities.

The Hope Hub will be the heartbeat of the Hopemaker Movement, grounded in the belief that hope is built together. YWCA is seeking like-minded partners and funders to turn this vision into a reality: a space where women and communities can thrive, grow, and soar together – ensuring no woman is ever isolated or unsupported.

A Night of Hope, Unity and Strength

The heartwarming evening, emceed by former Nominated Member of Parliament and women’s advocate Eunice Olsen, featured special performances, including an unreleased track “The Promise of You” by celebrated singer-songwriter Corrinne May, and an enchanting piece by international award-winning violin child prodigy, Travis Wong. A highlight of the night was YWCA’s very own Hopemaker Runway, a special collaboration with purpose-driven fashion brand, ANS.EIN showcasing designs inspired by the hopes and dreams of YWCA’s Hopemakers and supporters.

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About YWCA of Singapore

Since 1875, the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Singapore has empowered women and families of all races and religions through practical support that addresses both financial pressures and socioemotional wellbeing, along with a strong community to grow and thrive in.

Guided by its core principles of Serving with Love, Embracing Change, Strengthening Communities, and Empowering Lives, YWCA focuses on enabling women from different backgrounds to better manage caregiving responsibilities, strengthen family stability, and access new opportunities for growth.

YWCA operates a hospitality-based social enterprise through YWCA Fort Canning. All net profits from the hotel are channelled towards YWCA’s community services and programmes, furthering YWCA’s social mission, alongside the support of donors and partners.

To learn more or get involved, visit www.ywca.org.sg.

Media Contact:

Gerlynn Cai
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications
gerlynncai@ywca.org.sg
+65-8282 2148 / 6223 1227

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MEDIA RELEASE

SINGAPORE – 29 August 2025 – The Young Women’s Christian Association of Singapore (YWCA) and local fashion label ANS.EIN have partnered to celebrate women as creators of hope at the YWCA’s 150th Anniversary Dinner. This unique collaboration celebrates the creativity and resilience of women by transforming their art into wearable fashion pieces. The collaboration includes an exclusive auction of seven bespoke pieces and two new ready-to-wear family collections.

Ms Sandra Leong, Executive Director of the YWCA of Singapore, said, “As we celebrate our 150th anniversary, we are grateful for the rich heritage we stand on. Our work with ANS.EIN is part of our vision for the future – to reimagine how we serve and create a movement where hope is not just given, but built together. Every woman we serve is a creator of hope, and through this collaboration, we are celebrating that spirit and calling on our community to be Waymakers for our Hopemakers.”

ANS.EIN, a purpose-driven brand, embraced the opportunity to champion YWCA’s mission by joining its fundraising efforts as a Waymaker, helping to broaden the organisation’s reach and support its vital work. As part of the collaboration, ANS.EIN created a ready-to-wear collection featuring two distinctive family sets: Fields of Flowers, inspired by YWCA Hopemaker Lily Pek, and Colours of Love, designed in partnership with artist and longtime YWCA supporter Pauline Lau.

Additionally, ANS.EIN crafted seven exclusive pieces for YWCA’s 150th Anniversary charity auction held on 29 August 2025, drawing inspiration from Lau’s celebrated works Point Break and Fiesta. Each creation carries profound personal meaning and uplifts the broader community through art. These auction pieces took centre stage at the anniversary dinner, raising vital funds to support YWCA’s programmes for women, while the ready-to-wear collection is now open for pre-orders via ANS.EIN’s website.

Lily’s story is one of resilience and hope, beautifully reflected in her painting that speaks to her dreams of building a brighter future for herself and her family. Pauline Lau, a financial planner and devoted mother of three, discovered Dutch pour art during the COVID-19 pandemic, finding peace in creative expression. Her journey as an artist was further enriched by her visually impaired son whose unique perspective of the world has touched her profoundly.

As part of the YWCA Hopemaker Movement, this collection recognises every woman –whether a homemaker, full-time caregiver or professional – as a true “creator of hope.” It acknowledges the essential role women play in nurturing families and shaping futures, while calling on society to support and give greater visibility to women’s voices and stories. ANS.EIN’s signature approach to fashion – merging art and inclusivity – perfectly complements YWCA’s mission, making this collaboration a powerful testament to unity and empowerment.

Erlyn Karmelia, Co-founder of ANS.EIN said, “The first thing that comes to mind when we hear “Hopemakers” is our own mothers. Long before we started our journey as mumpreneurs, we had been inspired by them throughout our lives. Both of our mothers are working mums who, by their example, taught us that as women, we have so much to contribute and give – first and foremost to our families, and then to those around us, to society at large. We love how YWCA uses the term ‘Hopemakers’ – such a beautiful reminder that we are much more than homemakers. We are here to bring hope with whatever we have in each season. We can start small, and the Lord will multiply. We just need to do what we have been entrusted with, one step at a time, and remain faithful.”

To further support women and families in need, 10% of all proceeds from the ready-to-wear collection will be donated to the YWCA. The collection will be available for pre-order at all ANS.EIN stores starting today. This partnership is a powerful testament to the shared mission of both organisations to empower women and enrich communities.

As YWCA looks ahead to the future, it continues to rely on the generosity of partners, donors, and supporters to sustain and expand its programmes for women and families. The organisation is actively seeking more Waymakers – like ANS.EIN – who are willing to stand alongside its Hopemakers to create lasting change. Every contribution, whether through collaboration, donations, or volunteerism, will help YWCA extend its mission of empowering women and strengthening communities as it enters a new season of serving Singapore.

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ANNEX I

Fields of Flowers by Lily Pek	Ready-to-wear Collection 1 “Fields of Flowers” Modelled by YWCA Hopemaker Lily Pek and Family
Colours of Love By Pauline Lau	Ready-to-wear Collection 2 “Colours of Love” Modelled by YWCA Hopemaker Leny Yusnita and Family
Point Break By Pauline Lau	Ready-to-wear Collection 2 (Left) ANS.EIN Asymmetrical Cheongsam Ball Gown (Right) ANS.EIN Exclusive Ladies’ Maxi Circle Skirt with Original Artwork Print ANS.EIN Exclusive Girls’ Maxi Circle Skirt with Original Artwork Print
Fiesta By Pauline Lau	(Left) ANS.EIN Origami Kebaya Jacket and Culottes Two-Piece Set (Right) ANS.EIN Origami Cape and Velvet Dress Set (Left) ANS. EIN Ruffles Kebaya Jacket + Culottes Two-Piece Set (Right) ANS.EIN Exclusive Men’s Mandarin Collar Shirt with Original Artwork Print

About YWCA of Singapore

Since 1875, the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Singapore has empowered women and families of all races and religions through practical support that addresses both financial pressures and socioemotional wellbeing, along with a strong community to grow and thrive in.

Guided by its core principles of Serving with Love, Embracing Change, Strengthening Communities, and Empowering Lives, YWCA focuses on enabling women from different backgrounds to better manage caregiving responsibilities, strengthen family stability, and access new opportunities for growth.

YWCA operates a hospitality-based social enterprise through YWCA Fort Canning. All net profits from the hotel are channelled towards YWCA’s community services and programmes, furthering YWCA’s social mission, alongside the support of donors and partners.

To learn more or get involved, visit www.ywca.org.sg.

About ANS.EIN

ANS.EIN was born from a simple yet powerful idea: to make art wearable and meaningful. Co-founded by Anseina Eliza and Erlyn Karmelia, the brand started as a heartfelt collaboration between creatives in the region. They shared a vision — to merge fashion with art, culture, and purpose.

At its core, ANS.EIN transforms original artworks by local artists into versatile clothing that can be worn every day. But it doesn’t stop there. The brand is a celebration of storytelling through design — weaving in elements of sustainability, inclusivity, and social impact. From hand-stamped batik and manually woven tenun to origami-inspired pieces made from fabric scraps, each creation reflects a commitment to craftsmanship, community, and care for the environment. ANS.EIN has been collaborating with various social organizations such as JOURNEY by TOUCH community, SG Enable, MINDS, HUG Community, YWCA, and many more.

Today, ANS.EIN stands as a beacon of art, sustainability, and purpose-driven fashion. Fashion is more than just clothing — it is a canvas to express values, celebrate culture, showcase art, and spread kindness throughout society.

Media Contact:

Gerlynn Cai
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications
gerlynncai@ywca.org.sg
+65-8282 2148 / 6223 1227

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SINGAPORE – 22 July 2025 – The Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Singapore today marked its 150th Anniversary with a special launch of a new Hopemaker Movement and its accompanying Women’s Business Accelerator Programme at the YWCA Fort Canning.

This landmark event, graced by Guest-of-Honour Ms Indranee Rajah, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, marks not just a new chapter, but a bold leap forward in the YWCA’s enduring commitment towards empowering women, supporting families, strengthening communities, and carrying its pioneering legacy forward into the next era of social innovation.

As Singapore’s first and oldest women’s charity, the YWCA has consistently served women, girls and families in practical and transformative ways, often trailblazing initiatives to meet evolving needs. These pioneering initiatives included setting up Singapore’s first lending library and night schools to educate women, and Singapore’s first play school for children, to empower women to go to work, among many others.

The Hopemaker Movement: Igniting Hope, Strengthening Communities

YWCA’s newly-launched Hopemaker Movement seeks to recognise every woman – whether she is a full-time caregiver, a working professional, or juggling both – affirming her as a “creator of hope.” This movement recognises her pivotal role not only in nurturing families but also shaping futures. It serves as a call to action for individuals and organisations to actively contribute to building a more compassionate and supportive society, by giving greater visibility and voice to women.

Empowering Through the Women’s Business Accelerator Programme

A key pillar of the Hopemaker Movement is the Hopemaker: Women’s Business Accelerator (HWBA) programme which directly addresses the evolving needs of women from challenging backgrounds, such as those from the lower-income groups, caregivers of children with special needs or transnational women. Many women today are embracing entrepreneurship to achieve a crucial balance between their careers and caregiving responsibilities. However, women from challenging backgrounds often face unique barriers exacerbated by a lack of digital and financial literacy, and limited access to vital networks of support and resources.

YWCA’s HWBA programme, co-developed with support from partners such as MADCash and Brain Juice Collective, offers a truly comprehensive support ecosystem tailored to the unique needs of aspiring women entrepreneurs. This unique collaboration combines MADCash’s expertise in business training, Brain Juice Collective’s innovative mentoring activities, and YWCA’s deep understanding of women’s needs and strong network of community and corporate partners.

In the pilot cohort, participants underwent an 8-week course covering essential business skills. Upon completion, participants will continue to receive individualised mentorship from industry experts and seasoned entrepreneurs, gain opportunities to pitch to seed funders, and access unparalleled support and networking through YWCA’s vibrant fellowship of funders, partners, mentors, and like-minded supporters.

“It’s not just to help women start a business; but to equip them to build resilient, purpose-driven ventures that contribute to the well-being of themselves, their families and the broader community,” Ms. Sim Hwee Hoon, President of the YWCA of Singapore emphasised. “By bringing Hopemakers together, we aim to nurture a vibrant community where ideas are exchanged, challenges are overcome collectively, and every success – no matter how small – is celebrated together. This is founded on a simple YWCA belief that when women uplift women, families are strengthened, and so does the broader community.”

One Hopemaker in the pilot programme, Cathy, a widow and full-time caregiver to her 26-year-old autistic son, has found deep purpose with her son through building up a small ceramics business. For Cathy, the HWBA is a life-building project that not only supports their living expenses but also helps to foster her son’s growth and independence through their shared passion in hand-built ceramics.

Another participant, Cherry, a single mother of two children, is rebuilding her life through her passion in beauty and wellness — a path she discovered on her journey to healing. She dreams of opening her own beauty and wellness shop to create a space where women can feel confident, empowered, and truly seen.

The pilot cohort, which has an intake of 22 participants, is already empowering inspiring individuals like Cathy and Cherry. Their stories exemplify the ambition and drive of women determined to improve the trajectory of life for themselves and their families.

The YWCA invites all aspiring women entrepreneurs to consider joining future cohorts of the HWBA. The organisation also calls upon seasoned entrepreneurs and visionary organisations and corporations to step forward to support the women in mentorship and seed funding.

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About YWCA of Singapore

Since 1875, the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Singapore has empowered women and families of all races and religions through practical support that addresses both financial pressures and socioemotional wellbeing, along with a strong community to grow and thrive in.

Guided by our core principles — Serving with Love, Embracing Change, Strengthening Communities, and Empowering Lives — we focus on enabling women from underserved backgrounds to better manage caregiving responsibilities, strengthen family stability, and access new opportunities for growth.

Our mission is supported in part by YWCA Fort Canning, our hospitality-based social enterprise, where all net profits go back towards making our community services and programmes possible.

To learn more or get involved, visit www.ywca.org.sg.

Media Contact:

Gerlynn Cai
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications
gerlynncai@ywca.org.sg
62231227

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Women For Women – “Be Real, Be Better” Seminar

For almost 150 years, YWCA has been a women’s charity that seeks to bring women together to empower one another on their life journeys. We actively look for ways to bring enriching and uplifting content to our members and our beneficiaries through our women’s workshop and programmes.

As part of YWCA HeART Beats this year, we were proud to put together distinguished speakers, Ms Gabrielle Loh and Dr Geraldine Tan, for our “Be Real, Be Better” women’s seminar, that touches on two hot topics of great interest to young women today- personal branding and mental health.

Ms Gabrielle Loh

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As a personal branding coach, Gabrielle shared about how women can continue to find success in career transitions by identifying their strengths and branding themselves with authenticity. Dr Geraldine, who is Singapore’s beloved “People’s Psychologist”, shared about mental wellness amidst life’s changes. Both speakers complemented each other as the panel, moderated by Dr Junny Ebenhaezer, former YWCA Board Member, shared stories from the heart and their personal journeys of empowerment, and touched on real topics and issues that affect young women today.

Many of our participants, comprising largely of young women, left the seminar feeling inspired and rejuvenated. Thank you Ms Gabrielle Loh and Dr Geraldine Tan for the wonderful facilitation!

What You Missed Out On

Shoot the Zombie Game

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It was a lovely atmosphere of fun and laughter – the screams of children permeated the walls as they excitedly rushed around the floors to play at the game booths and the bouncy castles. The venue was abuzz with activities and commerce of food, drinks, and crafts while performances happened on stage. Check out some of our booths and performances below!

A Community-driven Fellowship

The carnival forms part of YWCA’s drive to strengthen communities by cultivating a sense of togetherness and collaboration in our space. We hope that participants could also feel proud of belonging to a supportive community when they experienced visitors from all walks of life buying their wares and sharing in their journeys.

As such, we invited several enterprises with social causes to share their craft talents. Craft & Co, run by our YWCA Mum, Eva, featured intricately crocheted knick-knacks and ornaments, while Prison Fellowship Singapore showcased leather gifts handsewn by ex-offenders.

Crochet with Love, founded by a group of mothers who bonded over their children with special needs, shared their love with quality crocheted merchandise. And Joy, a talented artist with special needs, sold beautiful merchandise printed with Joy’s unique artworks. Everyone not only had something unique to bring to the carnival, but also a beautiful story of love, hope and kindness.

Prison Fellowship Singapore

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Crochet with Love

Joy Koh

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A Shared Sense of Charity

There wouldn’t have been a carnival without generous vendors who co-created the experience with us, as well as the many volunteers who pledged their time and energy to serve the community with love. We felt the warmth of these vendors who also raised funds by selling a variety of wares from women’s products, children’s books and toys, crafts, plants and more.

This is the heart of charity we love to see! If you’ve missed this carnival, we invite you to join us at our next one.

The Clay People

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Filling Tummies, Filling Hearts

Bakery Brera

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For food & beverage, we had the honour of having familiar faces in the community participate with us. From the likes of Thrina from Bakery Brera, Doris from Dorisgozbakes, and Maureen from Mrs Kueh, our carnival had no shortage of delicious food and bakes.

Café Lodge continued to fill our tummies with their Signature Laksa with Abalone, while our YWCA Mum, Suffiyah, cooked up a storm for our Muslim beneficiaries and guests. Coffee lovers surely appreciated the excellent artisanal coffee from weloveyou.coffee as children delighted in the ice cream, they have so kindly sponsored.

Performances

The carnival was electrified by an amazing lineup of performers who came forward to serve with their talents.

K-Pop dancers JRHB brought the stage to life with their dynamic and synchronized routines, while magician and cardistry expert Jackie Chionh dazzled the crowd with his mesmerizing tricks and sleight of hand.

Singer-songwriter Tan Yuqing added an emotional depth to the event with her soulful performances, and the old-school band The Klassics took us down memory lane with their nostalgic tunes. We were also treated to an inspiring performance by Y Dance from YMCA, featuring dancers with special needs moving to popular songs and touching hearts with their joy and energy.

Adding to the excitement was our very own singer, Dona, who captivated the audience with her powerful renditions of Celine Dion classics, leaving everyone in awe of her stunning vocal talent. Each performance brought its own unique flair, making it a day of unforgettable entertainment and joy!

JRHB

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Jackie Chionh

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Dona

The Klassics

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Y Dance by YMCA

Every Mother’s Day, we recognise women’s incredible strength and resilience. This year, we highlight the story of two mothers who share extraordinary zeal for their children.

Mothers are benevolent. They will do what they must to secure a better life for their kids, even enduring hardship, abuse and uncertainty.

English Club students – Anna & Kim

Anna says, “As mothers, we’re not afraid of most things, but we worry about things that will affect our family and children.”

Anna is a YWCA Empowering Mums programme graduate and is currently enrolled in YWCA’s English Club; a free English course based on the International English Language Testing (IELTS) standards. Her classmate, Kim, is also a student in our English Club.

The Vietnamese-born mothers learn the basics of English and practice speaking on Thursdays with volunteers. English Club is a 10-week course uniquely catered to mothers to equip them with English language skills to improve their integration into the local community and access to employment opportunities. It is also where mothers can find a community to belong to and a support network among friends with similar backgrounds.

Contents

• Courage To Press On
• Resilience To Define Their Lives
• Hoping For Brighter Future
• Celebrate Mothers
• Bringing A Community Together

Courage To Press On

It is no easy choice for women to leave a familiar life and marry someone in a foreign land. Worse yet, for a marriage that may become sour, leaving women to fend for themselves.

But for Anna and Kim, their situation is far from foreign – they suffer due to familial violence or marital neglect. Anna eventually moved on from her marriage to escape the violence and shifted to a transitional shelter with her kids, which they shared with strangers.

The mothers’ courage to press on is commendable. Even more so when they courageously do what is best for their little ones, often forgoing their own needs and insecurities. “I have no more tears to cry. I just want what’s best for my kids,” says Anna.

Anna after an English Club class

Resilience To Define Their Lives

While these mothers may not be able to control their environments, they have the resilience to bounce back from adverse circumstances and work towards a better life.

Kim and an English Club volunteer

Right now, Anna and Kim’s priority is to improve their command of the English language. However, they must juggle several things, including caring for their household single-handedly, managing work that can often have infrequent or meagre incomes, and taking care of their mental well-being. Juggling these things is a delicate balance for them, where a single inconvenience can disrupt their study of English.

These are everyday stresses among women facing transition.

Their children are also nearing a foundational stage of their lives at age 7 – widely regarded for how children will communicate and interact with the world by processing how they’re being responded to.

Therefore, knowing how to communicate in Singapore’s most common language of business—English—is of utmost importance to the mothers and their children.

Hoping For Brighter Future

Despite the odds Anna and Kim face, they’re determined to press on. Anna believes it will help her improve her job prospects.

Anna & Kim practicing English with a volunteer

Her tenacity to learn shines through her eagerness for the next level of English Club. This path of improvement could open more doorways for her to become better at her job and thus a better life for her kids. Anna also dreams of learning more about different coffee types worldwide and eventually starting her own shop one day.

Kim hopes to use her newfound language skills to better communicate with her family and enable her kids to excel in their young lives.

What a love that mothers have for their children!

Celebrate Mothers

This Mother’s Day, we celebrate mothers in the community who dare change the status quo, mothers who define their lives by their resilience, and mothers who hope for a brighter future for their children and themselves.

We at YWCA note your courage, resilience and hope.

Thank you, mothers, for being the pillar of love in your family and children’s lives. You are not forgotten!

Bringing A Community Together

At YWCA, we serve women, children, and the elderly through community services so that they can lead empowered lives.

However, it is no small task to bring about change, but every small step makes this a reality.

Only through community and the coming together of many hands have we been able to do what we have done for close to 150 years.

While we already see a community of like-minded women joining hands as volunteers, staff, partners, and beneficiaries for the common cause of empowering women, you can still play a part.

Join us as a volunteer, donor or collaborator today!

Her hands slightly trembling but her face resolute, Fathima, a mother of two, sat down for our interview as she will graduate from the 10-week-long YWCA Empowering Mums programme with 6 other mums today.

It is a big day for these mums as they have undergone several workshops designed to empower them and prepare them for the next step in their back-to-work journey.

We first met Fathima in August 2023 when we were delivering dry rations for our Sustenance for Families programme. Shy and speaking only in short sentences back then, Fathima now radiates confidence, a testament to the progress she’d tirelessly worked for.

You’ll be surprised at the difference in demeanour and candour. We’re proud of her confidence in communicating her thoughts and feelings. It is truly impressive!

Contents

• From ‘No, I cannot’ to ‘Yes, I can!’
• A Community of Women Empowering Women
• Empowering Mums Graduation
• EM7 Employer’s Meet-and-Greet
• About Empowering Mums programme
• The Impact of Empowering Mums programme
• Special Thanks
• Support Us

From ‘No, I cannot’ to ‘Yes, I can!’

As we continued our conversation, she excitedly tells us how she can ‘handle all things just by sitting down to think’ and that she now ‘knows where to find help’. Her enthusiasm is infectious! (We can’t help but break into a smile as we recall our conversation.)
 

“Come to learn. Learn about yourself and learn how to solve problems! You will become confident.”
 
– Fathima

 
What stood out were the lessons learnt and exemplified in Fathima’s life – She doesn’t let stresses or worries upset her. Instead, she works through situations in a calm and collected manner. She even told us that her daughter loves the positive change she sees. Fathima expresses that ‘every problem has a solution’. What a powerful mindset!

Fathima with her daughter

A Community of Women Empowering Women

The Empowering Mums programme brought together a group of initially unfamiliar faces, including Fathima, and Rasidah. The trainers and partners, some mothers themselves, nurtured this group into a supportive community. The lessons learned in the workshops went beyond hard skills; they included building bonds, overcoming negativity, and fostering personal growth.
 

“Push yourself to attend the workshops. Though you may feel overwhelmed by situations – whether your kids falling sick or having to attend school events, or even waking up early to attend the course. Do your best to make it because it is worth it!”
 
– Nadia

 
Nadia*, who discovered YWCA through HCSA Spin, found a community where like-minded individuals supported and related to each other. The safe space allowed them to share problems openly in a safe space. Nadia, once introverted, now beams with self-confidence. She’s learnt to speak up without fear, dress better, and face interviews with newfound assurance.

For Rasidah, this was a journey of stress management and positive change. The community helped process thoughts, and shared experiences became a source of encouragement.

Beyond the programme, Nadia and Rasidah are planning to embark on a weight loss journey together, emphasizing accountability, friendship, and mutual motivation. Their post-graduation plans include maintaining their support network together!

Rasidah

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Empowering Mums Graduation

Our mums about to enter the graduation hall!

10 weeks of introspection, learning and forging bonds have passed, leading our Empowering Mums course participants to this very moment of graduation. They have gained skills in Emotional Intelligence, Mindfulness and Financial Literacy. And best of all? They’re ready to take on more of Life’s challenges.

A sense of excitement and anticipation filled the air as these remarkable women, radiating confidence and dressed in their finest, readied themselves to step onto the stage.

Entering Peace Room with heads held high, our graduates took the stage, recounting their personal stories of struggle, resilience, and ultimate triumph.

Their speeches reverberated with passion and inspiration, holding the audience in attention.
 

“You will become confident. Believe that you can change your life!”
 
– Rasidah

 
As the last words echoed, a thunderous applause erupted, evolving into a heartfelt standing ovation—a collective acknowledgment of the courage and resilience displayed by these women. Surveying the applauding crowd, our graduates felt an overwhelming surge of pride and accomplishment washing over them.

Our Empowering Mums graduates embracing their children

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EM7 Employer’s Meet-and-Greet

The YWCA EM7 Employer’s Meet-and-Greet session was organised to help candidates find suitable employment opportunities. Established organisations like NTUC, Bata, Accor and Alexandra Hospital were among some of our partners offering flexible work arrangements, incentives, and on-the-job training to support these mums.

Employer's Meet-and-Greet

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About Empowering Mums programme

The Empowering Mums project equips back-to-work mums from low-income families with life and work skills to improve their employability from a holistic view.

The project runs free support group work and employability skills workshops over 10 weeks, culminating with a professional makeover, graduation ceremony and meet-and-greet session with potential employers.

After graduation, six monthly post-project sessions are held to further support mothers on their journey of self-driven change.

Throughout the sessions, meals, transport and childminding (for children above 2 years old) are provided to participating mothers so they can attend with a peace of mind.

The Impact of Empowering Mums programme

Giving marginalised women the tools and resources they require to advance will encourage a generation of strong, tenacious women who can guide and motivate their families and communities. It also illustrates the role the YWCA can play in empowering and supporting women in our local community.

Special Thanks

The Empowering Mum 7 programme would not have been made possible without the support from our sponsors, content and community partners. Thank you for your faithful support!

Our community partners