Inspired To Challenge

“You must live life with the full knowledge that your actions will remain. We are creatures of consequence.” — Zadie Smith

Once a year, on March 8, the world celebrates International Women’s Day. But change doesn’t happen overnight. For real change to happen, to create impact in the lives that depend on it, and to move the mountain of antiquated mindsets in order to make new ways towards a better future, it is what goes on in the other 364 days of the year that matters.

Progress is the work accomplished not only with loud slogans and conspicuous marches, but also with smaller — but no less powerful — voices of individuals, the courage and conviction of women who walk among us, the women in our lives who motivate us to take action by example.

So yes, March 8 is behind us, but the celebration and empowerment of women remains ahead of us, and the challenge to change the status quo of gender equality is far from over. Here, we invite three inspiring women we know to talk about the challenges they face, the action they take to overcome them, and how they wish to challenge other women to step into their power and change the narrative.

Anabel Chew

Co-founder of WeBarre

As a woman, what is one of the biggest challenges you face in your personal and/or professional life right now?

Anabel Chew: I think the desire of “wanting to do it all” is both a wonderful aspiration and a huge challenge. To have a successful career and be a great parent, a loving spouse, a filial daughter, a supportive friend… It is not easy at all being a woman with life pulling us in so many directions!

How do/will you overcome the challenge(s)?

AC: I am convinced that finding “the perfect balance” between all these roles and responsibilities is unrealistic. Something has to give. It doesn’t mean that I’m neglecting any one of my roles, but that I am reorganising my priorities in order to give what I need to do in this season my best and my all.

If you could pick a challenge for other women this International Women’s Day, what would it be?

AC: I would like for more women to start asking questions and challenging social norms: “Who says it has to be done this way?”, “Why can’t my son choose pink as his favourite colour?”, “What if I applied for a senior management role that were previously held by men?”. Individually, each of us is responsible for our own thoughts and actions. Collectively, we can help create a more inclusive world because from challenge comes change.

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Tjin Lee

Founder of Mercury Marketing & Communications,
Co-founder of Life Beyond Grades, Crib Society & Trehaus

As a woman, what is one of the biggest challenges you face in your personal and/or professional life right now?

Tjin Lee: One of the biggest challenges we face as women, is negativity and competition from other women. Instead of envy and competition, we should seek collaboration and partnership. We should be genuinely happy for one other’s success, instead of putting other women down because we view their success as a threat.

How do/will you overcome the challenge(s)?

TL: I walk away from toxic relationships, and seek out friendships where I can find growth, support, joy and light. As we get older, we need fewer friends — better ones, a close inner circle of women who genuinely celebrate your wins with you, are never afraid to tell you when you’re wrong, and who are loyal at all times.

If you could pick a challenge for other women this International Women’s Day, what would it be?

TL: I would like to challenge all women to change their mindset towards other women — away from the notion that there is scarcity, that we need to compete (for jobs, for men, for business revenues), and to embrace instead the notion of abundance. There’s enough for everyone, we can thrive and grow together. Instead of competition, let us seek collaboration.

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Ang Jinyuan

Founder of StyleLease & The Ivory Bridal

As a woman, what is one of the biggest challenges you face in your personal and/or professional life right now?

Jinyuan: Finding balance between work and life, to constantly make (enough) time for the family, work and myself.

How do/will you overcome the challenge(s)?

JY: I've never been a planner, but over time, I have learned to organise my calendar so I can better manage my time and not miss important dates.

If you could pick a challenge for other women this International Women’s Day, what would it be?

JY: Life isn’t about finding yourself. It is about creating yourself. Don’t be afraid to try new things or make new connections. Take that first step.

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