Immediate Past President's Note

I served as the President of IWFCI Singapore from April 2018 to 2024.

In 2012, a friend invited me to an IWFCIS event and encouraged me to join this global platform serving women in business. I agreed as I was seeking activities to divert my attention from my pending divorce.

During my tenure with IWFCIS, I held various positions including Board Member, Treasurer, and Assistant Treasurer, but none prepared me for the role of President. The position of President was fulfilling yet challenging. Upon assuming this role, I initially doubted my capability to lead effectively. However, my determination and desire to overcome challenges motivated me to pursue and excel in this position.

Throughout my six years as President, I launched the BRIM initiative (Business, Relationships, Image, and Mental Attitude) aimed at reminding members and potential members that IWFCIS understands the complexities of managing a business. This initiative emphasized the importance of relationship building, maintaining a positive image, and fostering a healthy mental attitude, which are crucial in supporting and sustaining one’s business or profession.

In addition, I undertook the task of organizing the Global Women’s Trade Summit (GWTS) 2022, the flagship event of IWFCI. My team commenced planning in early 2021, coinciding with the global recovery from COVID-19. We secured government funding that facilitated our marketing campaign, including BRIM Podcasts, Webinars, and a series of blog posts featuring members and their businesses.

The efforts culminated in a successful GWTS held on September 14 and 15, 2022. Successfully delivering GWTS not only affirmed my capabilities as President but also showcased my expertise in event management. It is gratifying that GWTS Singapore is acknowledged as the benchmark event for other chapters.

After 2022, I began the search for the next leader, and in April 2024, I transitioned from my role as President and passed the baton to Angeelia Phua. This transition was not due to incapability to continue as President but rather acknowledging that the new leader was ready and it was time for IWFCIS to advance to the next level.

Reflecting on the past six years, it has been an enriching experience filled with laughter and the inevitable frustrations of driving progress. The bonds and friendships forged during this period have made the journey worthwhile.