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
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|
 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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YWCA 150th Annual General Meeting & Thanksgiving Service Recap 2025
On the 29 April 2025, YWCA of Singapore marked a truly special occasion as we gathered for our Annual General Meeting (AGM) and culminating in 150th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service. The events were a profound moment of reflection and gratitude, and a time to honour our rich history of empowering women and serving the community, while also looking forward to a future filled with renewed purpose and expanded impact. We are thrilled to share the key highlights of this momentous event, celebrating the collective achievements of the past year and the exciting new horizons ahead.
Contents
- Highlights from our Annual General Meeting
- Passing The Torch
- Thanksgiving for 150 Years
- A Heartfelt Tribute
- Guiding Our Next Chapter
- Be Part of Our Historic Celebration
Highlights from our Annual General Meeting
Here are some key highlights we shared at our Annual General Meeting, reflecting our milestones, new initiatives, and collective impact over the past year. We were thrilled to share the success of our YWCA HeART Beats Carnival, which drew over 1,500 attendees, demonstrating the vibrant engagement of our community. This past year also saw the successful launch of the Y+ programme and Wellness Weaving Experiences, which expands our outreach to caregivers in the special needs community. Additionally, we were proud to be part of FairPrice Foundation’s national donation drive supporting food programmes for low-income families across the nation.
Following the AGM proceedings, we held a special 150th Thanksgiving Service to thank and praise God for sustaining us through the years. The atmosphere was filled with heartfelt gratitude, a deep sense of unity, and the joy of celebrating God’s enduring faithfulness across generations, as we came together in praise and worship.
We also announced new membership benefits for our members to look forward to, including preferential rates for YWCA Fort Canning bookings and special offers with our partner organisations. These benefits offer members more ways to engage, connect, and actively be part of the YWCA community as we continue growing and serving together.
Passing The Torch
We were delighted to welcome Ms Sandra Leong, as YWCA’s new Executive Director with effect from 1st May 2025.
With her passion for community service and commitment to empowering women, we look forward to the fresh perspectives and leadership she will bring as we continue our mission of uplifting lives through love, service, and fellowship.
With this leadership transition, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to Ms Ong Puay See. We are deeply grateful for her dedication, guidance, and contributions to our mission. As she embarks on her next chapter, we wish her every success and blessing in the journey ahead.
Ms Ong Puay See (left), Ms Sandra Leong (right)
Thanksgiving for 150 Years
We were honoured to have Reverend Raymond Fong, our YWCA Chaplain from Wesley Methodist Church, lead our 150th Thanksgiving Service. Reverend Raymond preached from Isaiah 43:18-19, titled “A New Thing”. He encouraged the attendees that with God, nothing is impossible, but without God, nothing is possible. It was a meaningful time of reflection, gratitude, rededication of our commitment, and celebration of God’s faithfulness through the years.
Reverand Raymond Fong preaching on Isaiah 43:18-19 “A New Thing”
We also celebrated YWCA’s 150th Birthday, a joyful milestone marking a century and a half of empowering women, building community, and serving with love. It was a beautiful moment of reflection, gratitude, and hope for the journey ahead.
(From left to right) Ms Janet Tan, Ms Mavis Tsoi, Mrs Ma Kheng Min, Ms Tan Kee Leng, Ms Sim Hwee Hoon cutting the 150th cake together
A Heartfelt Tribute
YWCA would not be what it is today without the incredible love, dedication, and contributions of the women who have served before us. To honour their unwavering service and the strong foundation they’ve built for generations to come, some of our weaving mums and younger board members came together to weave a special handwoven scarf, a heartfelt tribute of gratitude and unity.
This meaningful scarf features three colours, each symbolising a part of our journey:
Warm Rubine Pink celebrates the vibrance and spirit of women and youth.
Dark Blue, drawn from our YWCA logo, grounds us in our history and legacy.
White signifies purity of heart, sincerity in service, and the enduring hope that lights our path forward.
Together, these threads weave a story of connection, continuity, and community—a gift from one generation to the next.
Younger Board Members presenting the tribute gift to our older members
Ms Mavis Tsoi holding up the special handwoven scarf
Guiding Our Next Chapter
As we step into a new term, we are delighted to welcome our Board Members for 2025–2026. We look forward to the collective wisdom, passion, and leadership they bring as we continue our mission to empower women and uplift communities through love and service.
Board of Directors for Term 2025/2026
President:
Ms Sim Hwee Hoon
1st Vice-President:
Ms Carol Liew
Honorary Secretary:
Dr Cheryl Lim
Honorary Treasurer:
Ms Sharon Peh
Members of the Board:
Ms Philomena Ang
Ms Lynette Piong
Ms Janet Tan
Ms Tan Kee Leng
Ms Janet Tang
Ms Mavis Tsoi
Our board members reciting the pledge
Be Part of Our Historic Celebration
This year marks 150 years of YWCA Singapore empowering women, nurturing communities, and serving with love. From heartfelt tributes to new initiatives, it has been a year of reflection, gratitude, and renewed purpose. As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we warmly invite you to be part of our journey forward.
Join us in honouring our past, embracing the present, and shaping a future filled with hope, impact, and fellowship. Visit ywca.org.sg/150th to learn more and get involved!
YWCA HeART Beats – A Charity Carnival that beats for the Community!
Months of preparation have finally culminated in our biggest community event yet, YWCA HeART Beats Carnival 2024.
This year’s carnival was truly an amazing one! We had more than 60 stalls with over 90 volunteers participating and an attendance of over 1,500 carnival-goers. We could not have asked for a better line up of performers, booth vendors, and community partners in this charity carnival.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to each and every one of you who participated as a guest, a volunteer, or a partner.
Contents
What’s Special This Time?
We were part of the 2024 edition of the Singapore Night Festival – Singapore’s largest nocturnal experience! The young and old had a full schedule of activities from 10am – 10pm. Participants could play carnival games, browse craft goods and eat food to their heart’s content!
Many of our beneficiaries joined us. For some, the carnival was a precious opportunity for a much-needed family gathering. It warmed our hearts to see their excited faces as they enjoyed the food, performances, and games. We are grateful for the generosity of many of our donors who blessed them with coupons.
All smiles for YWCA HeART Beats- Charity Carnival 2024
We were also blessed with an ice cream sponsorship from weloveyou.coffee, a new social enterprise arm of Venture Drive Coffee. Thank you for your support!
weloveyou.coffee
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.
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!
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.
