YWCA of Singapore | By Love, Serve One Another

“My siblings and I enjoyed ourselves at the party! The activities were fun, and we got to interact with other people…” – Darren, Meals-On-Wheels Young Beneficiary

YWCA Fort Canning’s Peace Room was no ordinary space last December as it was decorated with balloons in the form of spaceships, planets and a galaxy of stars, all set for the Year End Party. The event brought together both young and old beneficiaries from our community service programmes as they gathered for a day of fun in an astronomical wonderland. The room buzzed with excitement as the guests snapped some photos with the astronaut mascot and eagerly waited for the event to begin.

Happy kids posing with the astronaut mascot

Contents

• A Sense of Community
• Recognising Achievements and Milestones
• Making a Difference

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A Sense of Community

The event brought together a diverse group – children and elderly beneficiaries from our various community service programmes. Activities ranged from brain teasers to crafting delicious miniature cakes in a workshop conducted by Butter Studio. There was something for everyone and it was an opportunity for both the young and old beneficiaries to connect and share memories.

Children participating in a Freeze game

A volunteer from Ralph Lauren teaching the children how to pipe their cakes

A Happy Child Posing with His Finished Cake!

Learning how to pipe their cakes at the Butter Studio workshop

Our Ralph Lauren volunteers exemplified community spirit, as they actively served lunch to our guests, engaged them in the activities and created a culture where helping each other out became the norm. “My siblings and I enjoyed ourselves at the party! The activities were fun, and we got to interact with other people,” shared Darren, a young beneficiary.

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Recognising Achievements and Milestones

The event was a blast, filled with laughter and games, but the showstopper was the heartwarming moment when the children were celebrated for their accomplishments throughout the year. They were given awards presented by our board member, Ms Lynette Piong, and our committee member, Mrs Jennifer Ng.

Ms Lynette Piong, our Board Member, presenting a bursary award. 

Mrs Jennifer Ng, our Committee Member, presenting an award. 

The awards were not the focal point – at least. It was recognising the children’s unique qualities and capabilities and empowering them to reach their full potential. That was the highlight of the event.

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Making a Difference

The most precious gift of the day was the radiant smiles on the faces that our volunteers put on the faces of our beneficiaries. Every child left the party with a schoolbag and some presents sponsored by Ralph Lauren. “Hooray! A new school bag for Primary 1 in 2024!”, exclaimed Andrew (not his real name). The joy on the faces of the children was truly heartwarming and it was clear that they had a wonderful time.

Happy children with their new gifts!

Our Meals on Wheels Elderly Members Posing with an Astronaut Mascot

The event was a great success thanks to the efforts of our volunteers and community service programme staff who worked tirelessly to make it happen.

Ms Anne Chew, our Community Service Programmes Senior Manager, giving a token of appreciation to a Ralph Lauren representative.

A big Thank You to Ralph Lauren, Butter Studio and all our other volunteers who contributed to the success of this event. Your efforts are truly appreciated.

You can make a difference too! Contact us now to learn about volunteering opportunities and be part of our #ServingHope movement.

“We are encouraged by the outcome of the overall sales and the support we have received from the community. It gives us hope as we know that our skills and hard work are appreciated, and we can continue to brainstorm more ideas to create more beautiful products that people love…” – Lily, Weaving Facilitator

Behind the innovative designs of our woven products that were well-received at our pop-up booths lies a team of committed weavers who worked hard to create new and functional products that appeal to people from every corner of life. Across four locations- JPMorgan Corporate Office, Tiong Bahru Community Centre, International Baptist Church and The Art Faculty @ SG Enabling Village- where our booths were situated, the response was heartening as several of our products found new homes and our weaving workshops garnered numerous sign-ups.

Contents

• The Inspiration Behind Our Products
• More Than Just Giving Back
• Expanding Our Reach
• Support Us

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The Inspiration Behind Our Products

In the heart of our mission to empower our community lies the YWCA Weaving Programme – a social enterprise that empowers women from the marginalised community, equipping them with skills to not only create woven products for sale but also facilitate workshops with confidence. Through this programme, our Weaving Mums earn a flexible income that allows them to balance their caregiving duties while supplementing their household earnings.

A range of woven bags on sale at the JPMorgan pop-up

Our pop-up booths were stocked with one-of-a-kind products, created with love by our talented Weaving Mums and volunteers. It was a hub for people who were looking for unique items that could not be found elsewhere. From handcrafted accessories made by our board member, Ms Tan Kee Leng, to table runners, sling bags and scarves made by our Weaving Mums – each product exuded its own unique character.

“We are encouraged by the outcome of the overall sales and the support we have received from the community. It gives us hope as we know that our skills and hard work are appreciated, and we can continue to brainstorm more ideas to create more beautiful products that people love…” said Lily, a Weaving Mum.

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More Than Just Giving Back

In addition to providing an avenue for our Weaving Mums to showcase their talents and earn a living, the YWCA Weaving Programme has also become a platform for raising awareness about the challenges faced by women in our community.

Extending beyond contributing to the well-being of the marginalised, Saori weaving is a therapeutic art form that provides a sanctuary for mindfulness and self-expression. It serves as a retreat from the everyday stresses, and it is an accessible art form of self-care for anyone. There is no hard or fast rule to Saori weaving, and it fosters a sense of joy and ease of skill development, which proves especially beneficial for those grappling with mental health issues and individuals with special needs.

Ms Indranee Rajah exploring the craft at our pop-up booth at Tiong Bahru Community Centre Christmas Festival

Our weaving team at the Tiong Bahru Community Centre Bazaar pop-up booth is all smiles!

Weaving is embraced by both the young and old, offering a creative outlet that knows no limits. Partaking in the weaving programme is not only a way to empower the marginalised community, but it is also a means of practicing self-care.

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Expanding Our Reach

We are grateful to JPMorgan, SG Enable, Tiong Bahru Community Centre, and International Baptist Church, for their support in making our pop-up booths a success. We appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with them and showcase our unique products at their events.

Our Community Service Programme Senior Manager, Ms Anne Chew receiving a certificate of appreciation from Tiong Bahru MP, Ms Indranee Rajah

In the coming months, we are looking to collaborate with more organisations so that we can continue to inspire more women to pursue their dreams and never give up on themselves, no matter how difficult the road ahead may seem.

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Support Us

If you missed our pop-up booths last December, don’t worry! Our handcrafted products and stylish apparel are still available for purchase on our e-shop.

Follow the link to browse our wide range of products and make a difference with every purchase!

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What a Day of Joy and Excitement at YWCA HeART Beats!

25 Booths
25 Performers
5 Workshops
And 1 Heart in solidarity with our beneficiaries

Contents

• What is YWCA HeART Beats?
• What We Experienced at YWCA HeART Beats – A Music and Arts Charity Festival
• The Coming Together of Women Entrepreneurs Excites Us
• Looking Towards the Future
• You Can Still Participate in our Charity Festival!
• A Big Thank You!
• Check Out Our Wonderful Partners
• A Call To Collaborate

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Hello YWCA Family, we have concluded our first Music and Arts Charity Festival, ‘YWCA HeART Beats’! It was a wonderful day of individuals, organizations, and businesses coming together for a good cause.

What is YWCA HeART Beats?

At its core, YWCA HeART Beats is a testament to community collaboration to impact lives, where over 50 vendors, performers, and workshops converged!

The collective effort raised funds that serve as a beacon of hope for over 2000 households, empowering YWCA women and children and extending essential support to the elderly, disabled, and struggling families.

 

What We Experienced at YWCA HeART Beats – A Music and Arts Charity Festival

Right at the entrance of the festival, attendees were greeted by a captivating collection of over 100 artworks graciously donated by 52 talented young artists from Studio Haroobee, our Art Partner.

The artists conceptualised and crafted their artworks for over a month, drawing inspiration from beloved animals, idyllic landscapes and cherished storybooks. We celebrate these young ones for their creativity, philanthropy, and the power of art to inspire hope!

A guest viewing paintings by students of Studio Haroobee

 

As attendees appreciated the walls of art, familiar pop songs and excited chatter drew them nearer to the main event at the Sophia Cooke Ballroom.

The excitement stemmed from a full day of non-stop music performances by various performing groups in the Ballroom! First up were our talented YWCA preschoolers, who performed dances to songs like Oh Hallelujah and Butter by BTS. Their excited voices and dance moves filled our hearts, setting the mood for the day! All their parents, relatives, and friends cheered them on as they sang and danced their hearts out.

We also had young, talented pianists and violinists from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) and Fisherman Music School, as well as a lineup of seasoned bands like The Breeze, International Baptist Church (IBC) Handbells Group, and The Klassics. They played various music, from well-known classical to oldies and Christmas music.

These musicians have committed to pledge their performances with a dedicated campaign on giving.sg. 

With the vibrant atmosphere hinting at an early Christmas, people wanted to give back to the community by buying booth products. 

The booths were all laid out, surrounding the audience. There was something for everyone from different age groups; the little ones enjoyed adorable cake pops to munch on, while the adults could indulge in tasty snacks or get their hands on custom-made wood décor! It was a great mix of Food & Beverage, Craft and Beauty booths.

To top it off, our friends from Pause For A Cause came by in their Superhero costumes. Parents and children alike had pictures taken with their favourite Marvel heroes. Check out Green Lantern and Scarlet Witch here!  

Guests taking a fun shot with cosplayers from Pause For A Cause

So many joyous voices and delighted faces exchanged smiles in the venue, bringing like-minded hearts together.

We had many heartfelt conversations about how we were working in our communities, trying to provide warmth and hope. These conversations gave us an understanding of the importance of community and the difference we can and have made. 

While hopeful, it reminded us of our responsibility to the community and the work that the YWCA of Singapore can still do. There are still varied and novel ways of engaging and empowering the community!

 

The Coming Together of Women Entrepreneurs Excites Us

Bakery Brera

Bakery Brera’s booth

Speaking of booths, who could miss the community’s favourite, Bakery Brera by Thrina? While her bakery sold exquisite artisanal pastries like Christollens, Penettones, and Sugee Cakes, what drew people in was her heart for serving the community by championing community projects, persons with mental health needs and mission work.

 

Maia Made

Maia with her family and friends

Did you catch Maia from Maiamade.sg? Tini runs the social media account with her daughter, Maia, who has Down Syndrome. Maia became obsessed with beading after her cataract operation in 2017, and Tini hoped to showcase how talented kids with special needs could be! What beautiful beads from an outstanding girl!

We hope you had the chance to check out craft booths like Crochet with Love and Hello Jayne; these women entrepreneurs inspired us, too!

 

Crochet with Love

Crochet with Love’s booth 

A group of full-time moms of children with special needs started Crochet with Love. They found friendship through crocheting and shared challenges. To embrace inclusiveness in Singapore, they showcased and sold crochet animals and flowers that they and their little ones lovingly made. How inspiring!

 

Hello Jayne

Jayne from Hello Jayne showcasing her designs

Jayne has a heart for community, which she expresses through her creative talents in captivating infographics and imaginative illustrations. It is no wonder she hopes to “bring a little joy and provide support to the community” with her participation here.

Such is the atmosphere at our charity festival, YWCA HeART Beats, where like-minded women entrepreneurs and small businesses came together to inspire hope through their work whilst raising funds for a good cause.

 

Awesome Women Series

Priscilla and Shawn Tan of Awesome Women Series

Priscilla and Shawn Tan, founders of the Awesome Women Series, wanted to help parents and educators raise smart, confident, and resilient girls through interactive games and inspirational stories about female role models.

The power couple energised us with their innovative ideas and approach to women’s empowerment. Their series of books on women leaders affirms our work at YWCA. Awesome Women Unite!

 

Distilled Word

Over on Level 3, where workshops were held, Adeline Ang, founder of Distilled Word, shared her passion for calligraphy with her participants.

Participants enjoying their calligraphy class

“Distilled Word was incepted amidst the pandemic back in 2020, and calligraphy was what kept me going then and while abroad, missing home. Calligraphy illuminated hope for me when I was focused on writing each stroke and word, “she said.

Participants enjoying their calligraphy class

For Adeline, there was no better way to give back to the community than to share the same hope she felt through a calligraphy workshop at YWCA HeART Beats!

 

Looking Towards the Future

YWCA HeART Beats isn’t just a charity festival; it’s a promise for the future. It’s a commitment to continue the legacy of the YWCA of Singapore, which spans 148 years. This legacy is not just a chapter in history; it’s a living, breathing testament to our dedication to empowering women, uplifting at-risk children and youths, and supporting needy families. We will continue to answer this call to serve the community through our programmes. 

This inaugural festival marked the prelude to a series of upcoming activities designed to enrich the lives of our community. Anticipate announcements in the coming months as we unveil innovative programs, collaboration opportunities, and activities that beckon you to volunteer and advocate for our beneficiaries.

Singers from The Breeze

You Can Still Participate in our Charity Festival!

While the event has concluded, our fundraising is still ongoing. Donate generously to support YWCA’s programmes for mums and children. Every dollar raised will be matched one-for-one by the Tote Board.

View our Giving.sg page here. Hurry! Our donation campaign closes by the end of February 2024.

 

A Big Thank You!

To our invaluable partners, dedicated staff, and selfless volunteers, your contributions are the notes that have composed the symphony of the YWCA for 148 remarkable years. We extend our deepest gratitude to each of you. Your unwavering support has fueled our mission, allowing us to make a lasting impact on the lives we touch.

Mrs Kueh’s booth

 

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Check Out Our Wonderful Partners

Art Partner – Studio Haroobee
Venue Sponsor – YWCA Fort Canning
Grant Partner – Tote Board
Superhero Partner – Pause For A Cause

Performance Partners

• YWCA Preschool @ Ang Mo Kio
• YWCA Preschool @ Outram
• YWCA Preschool @ Marine Drive
• YWCA Preschool @ Pasir Ris
• YWCA Preschool @ Bedok
• YWCA Preschool @ McNair
• YWCA Preschool @ West Coast
• YWCA Preschool @ Bishan
• YWCA Preschool @ Bukit Gombak
• Zhou Ningze
• Zhou Linxi
• Chen Jiayi
• The Breeze
• Fisherman Music School
• Isaiah Kum
• Heidi Ng
• Audrey Foo
• Yang Yizhou
• Handbells Ensemble by International Baptist Church
• Candice Zhang
• Riverie Lau
• XinTong
• Brynice Liw
• Brilyn Liw
• The Klassics

 

Workshop Partners

• Awesome Women Series
• Soul Purpose
• The Gingerbread Pan
• School of Concepts
• Distilled Word

 

Booth Partners

Food & Beverage

• Bakery Brera
• Mrs Kueh
• Chateaux
• Café Lodge by YWCA Fort Canning
• Tree Owls
• Mei Tang Soup
• Amboi Trading
• Hodunamu

Crafts

• Tiny Green Ones
• Crochet with Love
• hapiPomPom
• lil2leaves
• Mitoboru.club
• The Cheep Cheeps
• hello jayne
• Boutiquet Lah
• Maiamade.sg

Beauty & Others

• Dashing Diva
• J-rophe Skin Care
• SoapCeuticals
• ABRY
• Gillian’s Treasure Hunt
• Rachel’s Upcycle
• Ms Tan’s

For more quotes and stories from our partners, check out our Instagram page!

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A Call To Collaborate

As we stand on the precipice of a new chapter, we extend an invitation to all who carry the torch of service in their hearts. Join us as collaborators in this ongoing symphony of love, where each note represents a commitment to compassion, empowerment, and positive change. 

Reach out to us via email here!

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All net proceeds from YWCA HeART Beats – A Music and Arts Charity Festival will go towards supporting the following causes:

Meals-on-Wheels

Sustenance for Families

Empowering Mums

Empowering Young Women

English Club

Kids’ Weekday Care

Bless a Child Beneficiary with a Gingerbread Christmas!

Mooncakes For A Good Cause

Uncle Tan Tee Kia, 87 years old, graces each day with a blend of resilience and optimism. He finds solace in the ebb and flow of passing moments, acutely aware that tomorrow is never guaranteed. Even in the shadow of a terminal illness, Uncle Tan remains an embodiment of strength, encouraging fellow cancer warriors not to yield to despair but to confront their adversities with courage.

Contents

• Navigating Challenges
• Beyond Nourishment
• Bringing Hope To Seniors
• #ServingHope, One Senior At A Time

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Navigating Challenges

After being diagnosed with brain cancer, Uncle Tan’s life took a turn. With his daily mobility compromised, leaving his home became an arduous feat. He confides, “Ever since I was diagnosed with brain cancer, I find going out a chore as I’m unable to walk long distances due to my weak legs and the bouts of dizziness I experience after walking for quite some time.”

Fuelled by these challenges, Uncle Tan sought support from a social service agency in Redhill, where he was introduced to the YWCA’s Meals-on-Wheels programme. The programme serves as a lifeline to seniors like Uncle Tan, bringing daily meals and convenience to their doorsteps.

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Beyond Nourishment

YWCA’s Meals-on-Wheels deliveries goes beyond providing nutritious meals to homebound individuals. It also got Uncle Tan acquainted to a network of compassionate volunteers who extend their care and support for him.

Uncle Tan fondly recalls, “The individuals who deliver the meals to us are truly kind and compassionate,” he added, “They go the extra mile to keep our spirits lifted and often check in on our well-being before moving on to their next delivery.” These interactions became bright spots in his days.

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Bringing Hope To Seniors

Uncle Tan’s connection with YWCA continues after mealtime. He is regularly invited to participate in events organised by our Meals-on-Wheels programme. These gatherings serve as avenues to uplift the spirits and keep seniors like him engaged. Beyond mere social interactions, these events foster a sense of community, providing these seniors a platform to forge new friendships and connections.

Uncle Tan’s heart brims with gratitude to the volunteers and donors who have touched his life. He recognises the determination and compassion required to serve individuals like him. Even though he genuinely desires to give back like them, he humbly admits that he has his limitations. “As much as I’d like to help others, I do not have the physical strength due to my health,” he confides.

YWCA’s Meals-on-Wheels programme is more than just sustenance, it provides hope, optimism, and a sense of belonging to those who might feel isolated by their circumstances.

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#ServingHope, One Senior At A Time

#ServingHope is a reminder that we have the power to make a difference with compassion. Every contribution, whether big or small, goes a long way in positively impacting someone’s life. We invite you to join us in this movement today.

Find out how at our #ServingHope campaign page here.

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Empowering Mums 7 (EM7) is opened for Registration!

Given the success in re-commencing the Empowering Mums last year, we are pleased to share that the annual EM programme is back for its seventh run.

With the continued support of our sponsors and longstanding content partners, the EM7 programme will feature ten weekly sessions from 24 November 2022 to 3 February 2024.

Mothers will embark on a transformative journey through workshops and activities meticulously curated for them to provide them with tools, knowledge, and support needed for them to thrive at work and various domains in their lives.

The programme schedule is as follows:

EM7 2023 – 2024 Programme Schedule

Date & Time	Programme	Content Partner
24 Nov 2023 (Fri) 6 pm to 9.30 pm	EM7 Launch: “Embark on your Journey” session, Project Briefing & EM6 EM7 Launch: Graduates Sharing (Family Invited)	PlayLab, YWCA, EM6 Graduates
2 Dec 2023 (Sat) 9 am to 1 pm	Group Session 1 EQ and Mindfulness workshop	YWCA, Ennove Consultancy
9 Dec 2023 (Sat) 9 am to 1 pm	Group Session 2 Stress Management workshop	YWCA, Two Point Zero
16 Dec 2023 (Sat) 9 am to 1 pm	Group Session 3 Stay on T.O.P – Time Management, Organization and Prioritization workshop	YWCA, Barbara Crane
22 Dec 2023 (Fri) 6 pm to 10 pm	Group Session 4 Financial Literacy workshop	YWCA, Manulife
6 Jan 2024 (Sat) 9 am to 1 pm	Group Session 5 Reality of a Job Hunt workshop	YWCA, reQuest Asia Pte Ltd
13 Jan 2024 (Sat) 9 am to 1 pm	Group Session 6 Resume Writing workshop	YWCA, e2i
20 Jan 2024 (Sat) 9 am to 1 pm	Group Session 7 Dress for Success workshop	YWCA, Image Mission
27 Jan 2024 (Sat) 9 am to 1 pm	Group Session 7 Interview skills coaching workshop	YWCA, e2i
3 Feb 2024 (Sat) 9 am to 3 pm	EM7 Graduation and Makeover Ceremony (Family Invited)	YWCA, Content, Makeover and Community Partners

*Weekly workshops and support group sessions might be subjected to changes.
Venues: YWCA Fort Canning, 6 Fort Canning Road S179494 & YWCA National Office, 254 Outram Road, S169051

Registration

For registration, please click here to check the eligibility criteria, referral process and download the application form.

Special Thanks

The Empowering Mums programme is made possible thanks to the gracious and generous contributions of our sponsors who share our goal of empowering women. We are also deeply grateful to our new and returning content providers for supporting us in our journey to help mothers from marginalised backgrounds better their lives and reach their fullest potential.

Project Sponsors:

   

 

Content Partners:

                      

               

Contents

• A Short Stop
• Empowered to Start Again
• Looking On With Hope
• How You Can Make An Impact

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A Short Stop

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Empowered to Start Again

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Looking On With Hope

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How You Can Make An Impact

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In the quiet corner of Telok Blangah Crescent resides Uncle Chee, an 89-year-old man facing his share of trials in life. With the recent passing of his beloved wife, he finds himself navigating challenges alongside his 50-year-old daughter, who has Down’s Syndrome. As a man in his twilight years, Uncle Chee carries the weight of worry, fearing for his daughter’s future when he is no longer around. 

Contents

• Empowerment Through Sustenance
• More Than Just A Meal
• Bringing Hope To More Families

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Empowerment Through Sustenance

For Uncle Chee and his family, life is no walk in the park. His daughter, in her 50s, cannot work due to her condition, which requires constant care and support. The burden falls upon Uncle Chee, who also struggles with a leg ailment that hampers his mobility. Ever since his wife’s passing, his sister-in-law occasionally drops by to extend a helping hand to the family, but the family’s situation remains uncertain.

In the face of an unpredictable future, the YWCA Meals-on-Wheels programme became a beacon of hope to the family. It all started when Ms Fang, a social worker who understood their needs and struggles, introduced them to the programme. Since then, YWCA’s Meals-on-Wheels programme has been a lifeline for Uncle Chee and his daughter, offering warm, nutritious meals delivered right to their doorstep.

Every meal contains a good balance of nutrients, consisting of rice, vegetables, protein and a serving of fresh fruit. Uncle Chee even ingeniously uses the fresh apples we deliver alongside his meals to whip up a heartwarming and nutritious soup with just a few additional ingredients found in the kitchen.

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More Than Just A Meal

The significance of these meals goes beyond mere sustenance. The convenience of having meals delivered to Uncle Chee’s doorstep is a godsend due to his mobility limitations. The meals not only fill their stomachs but also their hearts with hope and gratitude.

This brings forth the essence of YWCA’s Meals on Wheels programme – serving hope, one meal at a time. It sustains the physical needs of beneficiaries like Uncle Chee and his daughter and nourishes their spirits with a sense of belonging and care. The programme symbolises a lifeline that connects communities, bridging gaps of loneliness and vulnerability.

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Bringing Hope To More Families

Uncle Chee and his daughter are a living testament to the impact of YWCA’s Meals-on-Wheels programme. Each meal is a ray of hope in the lives of needy families like Uncle Chee’s.

Every contribution, no matter how small, goes a long way to providing families like Uncle Chee’s with the support and care they need. Your generosity will allow us to continue operating this service amidst rising food costs and expand our outreach to even more families in need.

Let’s create a world where no one is left behind, where every heart finds solace, and every stomach finds nourishment.

Join us in #ServingHope, One Meal At A Time.

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Meet Ms. Sim Hwee Hoon, the newly elected President of YWCA of Singapore for the new term of office for 2023/2024. With an extensive career in banking and finance, Hwee Hoon brings a wealth of corporate experience, having previously held C-suite positions at various private banks.  She currently sits on the Boards of the Singapore Labour Foundation, NTUC Income and is Independent Director for Stashaway, and a Senior Advisor at Singapore Consultancy Pte Ltd.

Hwee Hoon’s dedication to community work is a testament to her commitment to serving in YWCA.  Since joining YWCA in 2016, she has been serving on various YWCA Committees and on the Board.  Hwee Hoon often rolls up her sleeves to serve on the ground as a coach and mentor to our Empowering Mums, volunteers her time at our English Club and has also been seen serving our guests at our YWCA Fort Canning social enterprise.  Hwee Hoon truly embodies the YWCA motto of “by love, serve one another” and has been empowering and uplifting the lives of others.

 

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Q: Congratulations on your election as the President of the YWCA of Singapore. How do you feel being elected as the President?

A: I’m excited and humbled at the opportunity to serve the YWCA in the capacity of President. At the same time, there is also some apprehension, given the increase in responsibility and expectations. But I know I have our Lord to teach me to do His will, and let His good Spirit lead me on level ground. (Psalm 143:10)

 

Q: Now that you are the President, what are your hopes and plans for the YWCA?

A: YWCA Singapore has a long and illustrious history of serving the community in Singapore. My hope is for YWCA to continue to stay relevant and be future-oriented, but still remain steadfast to our mission and vision. As a charity, it is not just about doing good, but we must do well and be effective. We need to constantly scan the horizon for both challenges and opportunities and build capabilities to meet the needs of the future so that the work we do impacts not only the lives of our beneficiaries but creates a ripple effect that positively influences the lives of the community as a whole.

As we serve the community, my hope is also that YWCA will be an organisation that supports the growth and development of not only the staff but also the volunteers who commit their time to us.

 

Q: How did you end up at the YWCA, and what made you stay for the last 7+ years?

A: (My husband and I) came back to Singapore after spending almost 20 years in Hong Kong. I wanted to reconnect and serve the community here, so I reached out to Centre for Non-profit Leadership (CNPL) for matching to suitable non-profit organisations. Once they heard that I was in the private banking industry, they were keen to match me with organisations that needed expertise in finance or fundraising, which I wasn’t keen on! In the end, they passed me a list of organisations to review myself. YWCA caught my attention because it is about women of the Christian faith coming together to serve, and I’m passionate about women’s causes.

I’m grateful that Mavis (the President then) and Yee Ping (Executive Director) gave me the space to explore where I would like to volunteer in. They knew I didn’t want to focus on finance and allowed me to contribute to the YWCA Fort Canning and Community Services committees, even though I had no subject matter expertise in those areas! I also enjoyed the volunteering opportunities on the ground (e.g. Empowering Mums, English Club, coaching for staff). These sessions gave me the opportunity to interact with the beneficiaries and staff, to listen and understand the challenges on the ground, so that I can better help shape the strategic direction at the committee and board level.

That’s a key reason why I’ve stayed on with YWCA. At the YWCA, I was given the space to learn and grow, and it has been a meaningful journey for me. I also greatly treasure the camaraderie among the board and committee members, most of whom are women of Christian faith, committed to serving together. Over the years, I’ve seen so many incidents of unwarranted grace from God at the YWCA. He has provided and guided us time and time again through challenges.

 

Q: Can you share with us some of the causes you are most passionate about?

A: I mentioned earlier that I’m passionate about empowering women. If we can help women lift themselves to live safe, fulfilled and productive lives, they can in turn improve the lives of their children and family. I believe that those who are in a position to make a difference should step up to do so. Be the voice for those who don’t have, and support those who fall through the cracks.

Ms Sim (left), together with our English Club graduate 

 

Q: How do you hope to make a difference in the YWCA community?

A: This is not about me making a difference individually as a YWCA President. I trust that God will grant me wisdom and discernment to bring together everyone (board/committee members, staff and volunteers), to be aligned in our values to work towards a shared purpose for the YWCA. As God’s steward, it is our responsibility to ensure accountability and transparency at all levels. We need to communicate clearly the steps needed to execute our vision and mission effectively and measure our impact on the community. I hope that as a Board, we will all lead by example and embody values in our actions and decisions to create a positive environment that promotes trust, respect, collaboration, and innovation.

 

Q: Tell us a little about yourself and your family? What are your hobbies or favourite past-time?

A: My family is just me and hubby, and I treasure spending family time with my parents, nieces and nephew. I love to seek refuge and “forest bath” in our nature parks. During Covid, I have hiked the perimeters of the Singapore island twice over. My passion also includes photography, and admiring God’s incredible handiwork in nature when travelling overseas.

Ms Sim basking in nature’s glory while on her holiday 

 

Q: What is your favourite food at the YWCA Café Lodge that you will recommend for our readers to try?

A: The laksa is an all-time favourite for my family. My comfort food is fish noodle soup and I always go for their oriental breakfast set when I have a breakfast meeting. I miss their curry fish head and hope they will bring it back in the near future.

 

Q: Finally, what message do you have for the young women who are reading this article?

A: Be open to new experiences and have the courage to pursue your passions. Identify what truly excites and motivates you. When you find joy in what you do, it becomes easier to overcome challenges and see them as opportunities.

Lift and empower other women around you. Support them, celebrate their milestones and be a champion for their success. We all can be in a position to make an impact, no matter how small. The more we support one another, the larger the ripple effect.

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Thank you, Ms Sim, for your inspiring words!