On the back of two successful WoW: In Conversation online sessions, NUS Alumni Relations organised the WoW: Ignite session on 7 September 2022 to inspire women in the NUS community to expand their horizons, enhance ties and networks, unlock their potential, and scale greater heights.

Addressing the topic “Towards a fairer and more inclusive society”, panellists and participants discussed the issue of ensuring equal opportunities in the workplace – a key area in the first White Paper on Singapore Women’s Development that was endorsed unanimously by Parliament on 5 April 2022.

In her pre-recorded opening address, Ms Sun Xueling (NUS Economics, '03), Minister of State for Social and Family Development, and Home Affairs, spoke about the challenges women face in the workplace and how the government is helping to mitigate these challenges.

In supporting the continuous progress of Singapore women and advancing towards a fairer and more inclusive society, the White Paper outlined 25 action plans in five key areas: equal opportunities in the workplace, recognition and support for caregivers, protection against violence and harm, other support measures for women, and mindset shifts.

On the panel were Mr Max Loh (NUS Business '86), former Managing Partner at Ernst & Young for Singapore and Brunei, and Ms Renita Sophia Crasta (NUS Law '06), Legal Counsel and Co-President of Singapore Corporate Counsel Association. Together with moderator Dr Intan Azura Mokhtar (NUS Science '98), member of the NUS Alumni Advisory Board and Founding Chairperson of WoW, they offered anecdotes and insights on changing mindsets, the ways in which women in Singapore’s workforce can be empowered, and how organisations can bring about impactful change towards equality and equity.

Panellists also took questions from the floor during a lively Q&A session, where participants had the opportunity to share personal experiences and inspiring stories of women in their lives who have overcome obstacles and realised their full potential in both the personal and professional spheres.

‘WoW’ stands for Women of W – wonder, wisdom, wealth of experience and other words of empowerment that start with ‘w’. It is a series of panel discussions founded by Dr Intan to celebrate women and their achievements, through bringing together a panel of distinguished NUS alumnae to discuss impactful change in organisations, corporations, government and society by women leaders.

By NUS Alumni Relations

This story, by NUS Alumni Relations first appeared in NUSNews on 16 September 2022.