How Easy Is It To Be A Woman Entrepreneur In Singapore?
Mind The Gap
Once upon a time, it was almost inconceivable to be a successful entrepreneur in Singapore if you were a woman. There was a huge gap in expectations, pay and opportunities between men & women. Even if a woman were to venture from home to carve out a career, she was likely to face setbacks. A significant pay gap and glass ceiling limited her opportunities for leadership. Starting a business was tough, with widespread judgement if she allowed hired help to be the primary caregiver of her children.
Build A Community
Although lot of these issues haven’t been fully resolved, at least they have been identified. That’s a big first step. With vocal groups like UN Women Singapore campaigning for more female board representation & equal pay, there’s never been a more hopeful time to be a woman entrepreneur. Regardless of whether women are starting a business, investing in one or providing mentorship, there are now many associations they can join. And then there are conferences one can attend to network with and gain inspiration from captains of industry.
In fact, recently I attended the Singapore Women Entrepreneur Awards and spoke at the inaugural Summit.
9 July: Women Entrepreneur Awards Gala Dinner
Stars & Stripes
When I received the invitation to the awards dinner honoring women at various stages of being a successful entrepreneur, I was thrilled. Many of my friends were attending as well, and I consider them all to be rock stars.
However, on the day itself, I had an unusual problem. Having just returned from Discovering Magnificent Mongolia And Recalibrating Myself, my sunburnt face was peeling in peculiar places. I looked like a pink & brown zebra. Fortunately, I had a fascinator from Eskpade Millinery Keepers Singapore Designer Trunk Show that was perfect. It had a cascading net that conveniently masked my embarrassing countenance. Paired with a Jo Kilda dress & clutch, I was ready to support designer Jyoti Singh who was up for an award that evening.
In Good Company
Now unencumbered by trivia like my crumbling face, I was free to enjoy the event fully. Coincidentally, my good friend, Dr June, President of the Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations, was seated next to me. The SCWO has done such great work, campaigning to eliminate discrimination against women. Also on our table was Eunice Olsen who hosts a show dedicated to featuring inspiring ladies and their causes. How wonderful. More than ever, we do need to lift one another up to propel the community as a whole towards collective success.
On other tables, it was wonderful to see friends who are the epitome of the successful woman entrepreneur. Some are mothers who run small businesses, while others have expanded across Asia. Each lady has her own story for the aspiring entrepreneur.
#wea2019
What a glamorous evening. As awards were presented to women in gowns, and emotional speeches were made, photographers snapped away. The host beseeched us to hashtag our photos on social media. I was proud to congratulate my friends, Simone Ng & Jo Kilda. Both the jeweller & fashion designer were feted onstage. Although they were big stars that evening, I can personally vouch for how hard they work behind the scenes.
It was also a good time to touch base quickly with fellow panellist, Ms Tin Pei Ling, to make sure we had a robust discussion for our audience.
Inspired by an evening of interaction with amazing women, I went to the hospital for my night shift feeling positive.
10 July: Women Entrepreneur Summit Day 1
#wesummit2019
As I was post-night-shift, I rested before going to the Summit, dressed in a quirky cheongsam from local label, Triologie. As M2’s back from California for summer vacation, I brought her along. This was a marvellous opportunity for her to meet strong women. I wanted her to listen to perspectives from women outside of our family. Hence M2 had a chance to meet conference organiser, Ms Stephanie Cheo and host, Ms Yvonne Chan. She also chatted with other career women, some of whom have chosen unconventional paths.
Our special date was little M6, who asked to accompany his sister. Although this was a career event, I suppose it was good prep for my topic the next day: balancing family & work.
11 July: Women Entrepreneur Summit Day 2
Passing The Baton, To Game-Changers & Risk-Takers
On the day of our presentation, I wore a unique pantsuit from Jo Kilda, with an anime jacket from Lisa Von Tang & accessories from Simone.
In the morning, pioneers Ms Claire Chiang & Dr Gan See Khem analysed the dimensions of leadership. Beyond growing a business, succession planning needs to be worked out. It was also interesting to hear the perspective of Ms Chew Gek Khim, who didn’t start a business but joined her grandfather’s business, Straits Trading Company Ltd. In her corner was Mr Ho Ren Hua, who shared what it is like to transform a family business. As a matter of fact, his mother is Ms Claire Chiang herself. It was sweet to listen to the gentle jibes going back & forth & family anecdotes.
Work-Life Balance
In my panel, I discussed balancing family, career and philanthropic causes. Tips included keeping your eye on the ball, focusing on urgent & important issues and delegating tasks. As workplace wellness is close to my heart, I emphasised taking care of your team. Now that includes yourself. After all, a burnt out leader is not as effective as one who is physically, emotionally and mentally fit.
Fellow panellist, Ms Doreen Tan, whose listed company has weathered some storms, shared about her family. In face, she lives harmoniously under the same roof with all her children and grandchildren. You could hear the collective gasp of respect from the audience.
As a Member of Parliament, Ms Tin Pei Ling spent time discussing initiatives the government has in place to assist working women. Some participants asked clarifying questions about the government’s stand but for most part, there was a sense of optimism.
Bubbly talk-show host & author, Rilla Melati, moderated our panel with aplomb.
Entrepreneur In Power: Be Empowered, To Empower
At the inaugural Women Entrepreneur Summit, the theme was Women Entrepreneur In Power, Be Empowered and To Empower.
I think the theme accurately described the discussions and interactions both onstage and offstage.
On my part, I tried to empower the audience with tales of my failure and by extension, resilience. In fact, it was they who empowered me with their engaging conversations, sparking ideas and broadening my perspective.
I’m already looking forward to next year’s edition of the Women Entrepreneur Summit!
