“I foresee significant strides in advancing gender equality, driven by the initiatives outlined in the Singapore Women’s Development White Paper.” – Dr. Seow Yian San
As much as Singapore gets plaudits for its economic growth and stability, our country can also hold her head high in matters of social progression. In the most recent United Nations Gender Inequality Index (GII)2 released in March 2024, for instance, Singapore is ranked 8th worldwide —and first in Asia Pacific—for having a low level of gender inequality.
Among the key proponents working tirelessly on the ground to promote gender equality is the Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations (SCWO). Founded in 1980 to champion women’s rights in Singapore, with the vision of achieving “Equal Space, Equal Voice, and Equal Worth”, the organisation now has a new woman at the helm in Dr. Seow Yian San.
The newly appointed president SCWO is a practising orthodontist who is dedicated to making gender equality a lived reality. While Dr. Seow has her sights on the bigger picture, which is to “advocate for women’s rights on a larger scale (through) meaningful initiatives”, she will be hitting the ground running.
In September, SCWO hosted the Summit for Action on Gender Equality (SAGE) that brought together diverse changemakers from diverse sectors, spanning policy makers to entrepreneurs and medical experts, to discuss issues that range from pay discrepancies and ageing population, and how they will impact a gender-equal future.
At the same time, she will be seeing one of SCWO’s proposals to develop a public garden for women at Dhoby Ghaut Green coming to fruition—one that was announced by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong during the Closing Session of the Conversations on Singapore Women’s Development back in 2021.
“A multifaceted approach is essential,” Dr. Seow stresses. This includes advocating for policies that promote gender equality, fostering community support, and challenging ingrained biases through education. “Collaboration across government, business, education, and civil society is key to driving systemic change and creating a more equitable society,” she says.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received in your career?
There are a few: do what is right; work on the strengths of others; and pick your battles.
What’s a cause or issue you are passionate about?
I am passionate about making education accessible to everyone, not just women. Education has the power to transform lives, unlock individual potential, and challenge ingrained mindsets—an essential step in advancing gender equality. By ensuring that education reaches all, we can more effectively address these issues and foster a more inclusive society.
What values are most important to you?
Integrity, empathy, and perseverance. Integrity ensures honesty and establishes trust, which are foundational for any meaningful relationship. Empathy fosters connection, allowing us to understand and support one another. Perseverance drives me to overcome challenges, ensuring that we stay the course even when the going gets tough.
I liken these values to water—flexible and adaptable to changes and unexpected events, yet strong and resolute in maintaining focus and making tough, sometimes unpopular, decisions. Embracing a mindset of constant learning also requires humility, acknowledging that there is always room for growth and improvement.
What is one thing everyone should experience at least once in their life?
Embrace your fear. It might just surprise you when you confront it head-on. Taking the step to overcome even one fear can lead to a transformative experience, and open doors to profound personal growth.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I find immense joy in travelling. It enriches my life, instils gratitude, broadens my perspectives, and fosters personal growth. Travelling is a great way to recharge, offering a deeper understanding of the world and ourselves.
Singapore Council of Women Organisations
Photography by Franz Navarrete / Hair & Makeup by Greg’O
