SHE Supports Expands Network with 16 New Organisations | 18 August 2024

The SHE Supports mentorship programme, initiated by SHE in collaboration with NTUC U Women and Family (U WAF), has welcomed 16 new partner organisations, potentially expanding the network's reach to over 30,000 women.

Launched on 2 March 2024, SHE Supports was created to aid those returning to work or managing caregiving duties. The programme's Friendship Circles bring together women mentors across various industries, providing a supportive environment where participants can share experiences, discuss strategies, and address challenges. The inaugural SHE Supports Friendship Circles on 29 June 2024 saw 16 mentors and 44 mentees engage in meaningful discussions on balancing self-care with work and caregiving.

On 18 August 2024, during the To-Gather: Power of Women event at NTUC Centre, 16 new organisations joined the network. Each partner will host at least two Friendship Circles, targeting 1,000 mentees over the next two years. These partners, from sectors including traditionally male-dominated STEM fields like built environment, engineering, and cybersecurity, as well as social services, non-profits, and e-commerce, will provide mentors who bring valuable domain expertise. Notable partners include the Association of Information Security Professionals, Association of Women in Construction (Singapore), Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association, Persatuan Pemudi Islam Singapura (PPIS), and e-commerce provider Synagie.

The To-Gather event, designed to inspire young women, featured Senior Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of National Development Ms Sim Ann, in her capacity as SHE's Adviser, NTUC Assistant Secretary-General and U WAF Director Ms Yeo Wan Ling, and SHE Chairperson Ms Stefanie Yuen Thio. Aimed at addressing the demand for early career mentorship identified in NTUC’s #EveryWorkerMatters Conversations, which found that 60% of youths believe mentorship should begin near graduation or within the first three years of employment, the event brought together 300 young women for sessions on career opportunities in NGOs and the e-commerce industry. The event also offered activities to help young women transition into their careers, including a pre-loved clothing distribution by the People's Action Party (PAP) Women’s Wing, colour analysis, professional portrait photography, and a capsule wardrobe showcase by Love and Bravery.

Ms Yeo Wan Ling expressed excitement at the new partnerships, stating, "At NTUC U Women and Family, our goal is to empower women workers by providing the support and resources they need to balance work and life. These new partnerships will strengthen our advocacy efforts while building strong, supportive networks that will help many women—including those starting their careers or juggling caregiving."

Ms Stefanie Yuen Thio added, "When women’s organisations work together, we can empower even more people—both women and men."