Luck? It’s All About the Sweat, Not the Plate.
Ever notice those super‑successful folks and think, “Ah, fortunate! They must have a lucky streak that just clicks.” But here’s the truth: luck doesn’t hand out gold medals; it hands them out to the workers who keep grinding. It’s the sweat, the blood, and the tears that shape the path. Easy? Nope. A handout? Absolutely not.
Success is a battle. You have to shake off the doubts, trust your gut, and hold your ground. All that courage will open doors.
Breaking Glass, One Trailblazer at a Time
Today, the landscape is shifting. Women are stepping into leadership, smashing glass ceilings, and leaping side‑by‑side with men. Each lady who takes the helm becomes a beacon for the next wave of dreamers—whether they’re Singaporean or from across the globe.
Now, let’s give a shout‑out to five fabulous Singaporean women who’ve turned hard work into sizzling success and inspire us all.
-
Audrey Tang – Digital Visionary
With a passion for tech and a knack for problem‑solving, Audrey’s work on Singapore’s digital ecosystem has set her apart. She proves that coding isn’t just for boys—it’s for anyone with curiosity and determination.
-
Elaine Li – Social Innovator
Elaine combined community commitment with creative solutions, launching programs that empower under‑served groups. Her stories remind us: change starts with listening, not just leadership.
-
Maria Chen – Business Trailblazer
From a startup gig to a board chair, Maria’s growth is a case study in resilience. She reminds us that strategic risk‑taking can modify the game board.
-
Tanita Gomez – Policy Pioneer
Balancing science and policy, Tanita has overseen reforms that shape national thinking. Her voice proves that real influence isn’t only about the title but the impact on lives.
-
Erica Wong – Entrepreneurial Spirit
Erica’s journey from a campus idea to an innovation hub shows yadda‑yadda persistence pays off. She’s a living example of how the blend of creativity and grit can spark real change.
Every headline above is a lesson in grinding hard, daring boldly, and making the world a better place—one line at a time.
So if you’re dreaming big, remember: the real magic lies in believing in yourself. Keep your eyes on the prize, and let these Singaporean women light your path.
1. Tuminah Sapawi
Meet the Trailblazing CEO of Singapore Muslim Women’s Association
Sarah Anwar is no ordinary executive—she’s the dynamic leader steering the Persatuan Pemudi Islam Singapura, also known as the Singapore Muslim Women’s Association, into a future where every woman can thrive.
The Vision Behind the Boardroom
When Sarah walked into the office, she brought more than a résumé; she brought a fresh spark of community empowerment. Her mission? Turn a traditional association into a powerhouse for social change.
- Inclusivity: Ensuring women of all ages feel heard.
- Education: Launching scholarship programs that open doors.
- Health: Advocating for better maternal care resources.
What Drives Her?
It’s simple: Sarah says the biggest challenge is cultural bias. She tackles it by weaving faith and modernity into public talks and community workshops. Her humor? When she explains a new policy, she jokes, “If you can’t laugh about it, you’ll probably forget it!”—and that’s exactly what makes her ideas stick.
Impact on the Ground
Thanks to Sarah’s leadership, the association now offers:
- Skill‑building courses for women working in tech.
- Monthly monthly volunteer drives to support local charities.
- Annual cultural festivals that celebrate women’s stories.
“We’re creating a ripple that spreads across the city,” she says with a grin.
Future Plans
Sarah is eyeing a regional partnership with neighboring countries, hoping the association’s model will inspire others worldwide.
In the words of the CEO: “Let’s rewrite the narrative together—one Muslim woman at a time.”
Breaking Barriers: Tuminah’s Journey From Classroom to Cabinet
Early Aspirations & the Teacher Dream
Growing up, little Tuminah looked up to her primary school teachers and pictured herself standing in front of a chalkboard, explaining the wonders of math and history. That was the path she hoped to tread—until the shiny allure of the legal world caught her eye later on.
Secondary School: The Shift to Law
She fell in love with the justice‑driven drama Paper Chase, and suddenly the courtroom felt like the ultimate playground. The legal dream replaced the earlier teaching itch.
Writing: The Constant Companion
No matter which profession she chased, writing never left her side. After dedicating more than 24 years to journalism, she found a way to combine words with action.
Mid‑Life Career Turn: From Desk to Civil Service
- Age 48: Made the bold leap into Singapore’s civil service.
- Led Yayasan Mendaki, a key education charity.
- Headed the Singapore Muslim Women’s Association (PPIS), a nonprofit championing women, children, and families in need.
Why It Worked
This switch turned out to be a golden move—turning years of writing into tangible community impact. She turned the pen into a public policy tool and caused real change.
Her Advice to a Nine‑Year‑Old Dreamer
“Never say no to a big dream. If the path feels rocky, it means you’re aiming higher than you realized,” she tells her younger self (and you).
In short, Tuminah’s story shows that passion + perseverance can turn the pen into a passport to the pinnacle of public service.
2. Michelle Hon
Meet the MomBoss Academy Trailblazer
Who is she? Picture a multitasking powerhouse: a prolific author, dynamic entrepreneur, and supermum of three. She built MomBoss Academy to empower women who want to turn “mom life” into a thriving business.
What drives her?
- Turning everyday motherhood moments into business inspiration.
- Proving that hustle and hugs can coexist.
- Helping other mums navigate the chaos of parenting while scaling a brand.
How she does it
By blending heart with hustle—she writes heartfelt guides, hosts workshops that feel like family get‑together, and sprinkles humor into every lesson. The result? A community where coffee, kiddos, and confidence are all on the same page.
From Cheerful Kid to Fearless CEO: The Michelle Hon Story
At the very start of her life, Michelle Hon was the definition of sunshine. Even when the family bags were a little empty, she’d grin from ear to ear, chirping, “I’m blessed.” Mom’s pep talks were the soundtrack to her confidence: “You can do anything if you set your mind to it.” The world seemed like a playground.
Then, 11 years later, the soundtrack got a major cut. Mom’s passing left Michelle navigating a sea of doubt and the crushing loss of her confidence anchor. But life doesn’t wait for a moment to breathe easier.
It’s Not a Walk—It Was a Run
- Age 16: Michelle discovered models was a way to keep her pockets full. She hit the runway for a living while still in school.
- Hosting a music chart show? Check. The stage was her next life lesson.
- Two fresh moves between countries—her passport filled up faster than her savings account.
- First business venture took a hit, but the “lose” felt like a stepping stone.
Through the ups, the downs, the “what the heck?” moments, Michelle absorbed lessons that only come from experience. Today, she’s not just a woman in a suit; she’s a full-on author and the proud head of four flourishing businesses.
Mentorship: Helping Others Break Out of Their Own “I Can’t” Sigils
Now, she’s on a mission: “Let’s make sure no other woman wonders if she can rise to the top.” Michelle mentors budding entrepreneurs, turning her story of perseverance into a blueprint for others.
Still, the whisper of insecurity—the imposter syndrome—remains a hidden challenge. But she’s gotten to the point where she can scream, “I know I’ve got a squad beside me, and I’m blessed to keep shining!” Her story proves that you can hold onto your confidence—or at least a solid floatie—while still navigating a dramatic wave.
Drop a Sneak Peek
Want to jump behind the scenes of Michelle’s world? Keep reading, stay tuned, and you might just catch a glimpse of the joy, grit, and humor that steer her journey.
3. Pek Lay Peng
Meet the Visionary: The CEO of Shingda Group of Companies
Who is he? He’s the powerhouse behind the multi‑industry Shingda Group, juggling everything from tech startups to real estate ventures—all while keeping his hair impeccably styled in a way that could give any CEO a run for his money.
From Garage to Global
- Early Ambition: In his teenage years he built a tiny phone store out of a cramped garage, proving that great ideas can start in the most unlikely places.
- Pivot Mastery: He knows how to pivot faster than a ballerina on a hot dance floor—turning a struggling investment firm into a booming tech hub.
- Mentorship Maven: He mentors countless young entrepreneurs, believing that giving knowledge is the ultimate power move (and it’s also a good excuse for his coffee habit).
Founder of a Society
Beyond boardrooms, he launched the Urban Innovators Society—a community that brings together tech geeks, designers, and folks who just love baking cupcakes. Think of it as a cross between a mastermind group and a bake‑off.
Key Highlights
- Impact. The society has hosted over 200 workshops and brought 50 startups into the spotlight.
- Community. Its members enjoy free Wi‑Fi at every meetup, because who doesn’t want a steady stream of memes while brainstorming?
- Success Stories. One member built a solar‑powered drone startup, and another discovered a lucrative niche for sustainable fashion.
Why You Should Subscribe to His Beat
His newsletter is a blend of sharp business insights, personal anecdotes, and a sprinkle of dad jokes—perfect for mornings when you need both motivation and a laugh. Ten minutes a week and you’ll be on your way to out‑smarting the corporate world.
In short, he’s the kind of CEO who balances humor with hustle, and proves that you can lead, innovate, and even bake a mean batch of cupcakes—all at the same time.
Picture‑Perfect Inspiration: Pek & Her Singapore Grandma
When young Pek swapped the comforts of Malaysia for the bustling streets of Singapore, she found an unexpected mentor—her grand‑mum. This inter‑continental swap wasn’t just a geography lesson; it was a life lesson wrapped in the aroma of grandma’s kitchen and the wisdom of a hundred years.
Swapping Homes, Not Dreams
From the moment she was a toddler running around with her grand‑mum, Pek understood that the steep climb of Singapore’s skyline was a lot like the stories her grandma told—tall, steep, and worth the effort.
Learning From The Grand‑Mum’s Lens
- She learned that every scar on the city’s streets had a story.
- She saw that resilience means carrying a whole world in your hip‑pack.
- She discovered that heritage isn’t just a family tree; it’s the street‑food that makes you feel home.
The Immigrant Echoes
Her grandma, a second‑generation immigrant from China, showed Pek that borders are just lines on a map—things that lose meaning when you actually touch them.
“We Cook, We Share, We Dare”
“Life isn’t something we’re handed; it’s something we pair with grit, jokes, and a pinch of courage.” She tells us that our story is a recipe— the ingredients are those of our experiences and the recipes are the homemade dishes learned from grandma.
And the grand‑mum’s signature recipe? A quick pinch of humor, a cup of perseverance, and a sprinkling of love. That’s how Pek learned to keep life alive, one laugh at a time.
4. Yui Pow Redford
Meet Alex: The Multi‑Talented Super‑Mom
Alex isn’t just any ordinary mum. She’s a globe‑trotting adventurer, a linguistic magician who can charm strangers in seven languages, a passionate teacher turning curiosity into lifelong learning, a savvy entrepreneur driving a thriving business, and the visionary behind a non‑profit that changes lives. She juggles all this with a splash of humor and a whole lot of heart.
- Global wanderlust: From the neon streets of Tokyo to the bustling markets of Marrakech, Alex’s passport has more stamps than a post office.
- Language wizardry: She picks up new accents faster than a kid learning ABCs, turning awkward tones into cultural bridges.
- Classroom catalyst: With colorful chalk and endless patience, she turns dull lessons into epic adventures.
- CEO with conscience: Her venture blends profit with purpose, turning everyday challenges into opportunities.
- Non‑profit pioneer: Alex leads a charity that gives hope where it’s needed most, proving that business can be the catalyst for change.
- Momma Extraordinaire: Amid all these hats, she’s still the go‑to nanny, sewing bedtime stories from her pocket and feeding hugs like cupcakes.
Picture Alex in action: she’s walking her kids to school while negotiating a contract in Spanish, handing hot coffee to a board member, then chatting with a street vendor in Hindi— all before playing “Let’s Go!” with her toddlers. That’s the energy we call “full‑stack life.”
Meet Yui: The Trailblazing Traveller Who Turned Her Curiosity Into a Global Adventure
Yui wasn’t your typical teenage Singaporean girl. While most of us were busy scrolling through Insta, she was busy planning her first trip to an entire continent!
From Puzzling Curiosity to Passport Stamps
Curiosity burned bright in Yui from the get-go. She didn’t just want a weekend getaway; she wanted a world‑wide itinerary. The result? She broke records as the first Asian woman—and first Singaporean—to land in every single country.
Breaking the Mold (and the “Typical Singaporean” Script)
- She discovered it’s totally fine to not fit society’s expectations, “let others take the road you don’t walk.”
- She famously quips, “It’s your life, not theirs.” Turns out, that was the ultimate mic‑drop for her personal philosophy.
- She admits she only realised this adulthood—good thing, because she could’ve saved the next ten years of her life from “trying to be someone else.”
- Now, a decade into embracing her own swing, Yui says life feels better and more fulfilling.
Her Golden Piece of Wisdom
“Everyone’s journey is different. Trust yours.” Yui says. And we’re practically nodding in agreement—as long as we also enjoy free space to wander.
5. Indranee Rajah
Behind the Curtains: Inside the Prime Minister’s Office
Meet the Cornerstone
Jane Smith – the unsung hero in the Prime Minister’s Office, juggling schedules that could make a circus act look tame.
Her Day‑to‑Day Choreography
- Morning briefings with top ministers – never a dull moment.
- Coordinating cabinet meetings: keep everyone on the same page.
- Overseeing the PM’s personal calendar: a fine line between coffee breaks and crisis calls.
- Drafting and reviewing speeches – sugarcoating policy while keeping it authentic.
- Maintaining top‑secret communications: eyeliner is optional, but stealth is key.
What It Tells Us About the PM’s Office
When you’re in the shadows of the highest office, you learn that power isn’t just about headline speeches; it’s also about the quiet, relentless work that keeps politics humming. From scheduling to strategy, this minister’s role is the glue that holds the entire cabinet together, all while wearing a smile that says, “I’ve got this.”
Meet the Remarkable Indranee Rajah – Talk of Singapore’s Inspiring Girls
Ever wonder how a young girl with a stack of comics grew up to be a top‑tier politician? Here’s how the story of Indranee Rajah unfolded.
Early Days & A Big Spark of Curiosity
From the moment she was a kid, Indranee was glued to comics and books. The farther pages she flipped through became a playground for her imagination, and school felt like a second home because of the friends and teachers who made every day colorful.
Life’s First Hard Lesson
Just when she was a handful of years old, her dad passed away. The loss hit her strongly – it was the spark that turned her into a determined survivor. Watching her mum put in long shifts as a nurse to support the family only reinforced that “hard work pays off.”
When Doubt Feels Like a Heavy Dress
Indranee didn’t always feel like she was on the right track. One moment she’d flag: “I’m not good enough,” and she’d crumble. Whenever that happened, she tucked her head over and prayed. Those moments became her “answers” – the silent pep talks that pushed her forward.
From Lawyer to Minister – The Journey
No one ever spelled out this path for her. Yet, through relentless dedication, she leapt from law practice straight into the political arena and ultimately landed as a minister. It’s a testament that “life often surprises you” when you keep going.
Takeaway from a Trailblazer
Here’s her sage advice – I’ll try to make it sound like a pep talk:
- Be yourself – authenticity beats a glossy façade every time.
- Chase your dreams – the grind is all worth it when you see the finish line.
- Do what you love – because joy is the secret sauce to success.
- Treasure your family and friends – they’re the real MVPs who keep you grounded.
- Show kindness to yourself – treat your own heart like a gentle friend.
- Take life one step at a time – pace is better than sprinting into a chaos zone.
- Keep believing – and one day you’ll hit that spot you dreamt about.
Feeling Inspired?
Singapore’s got a ton of amazing girls who are making waves. Indranee’s story is one of the hummingbird’s of perseverance and joy. Let’s raise a toast to all the dream‑chasers out there!
