One of the easiest ways to empower women economically is to buy from women-owned businesses. In Singapore, numerous female entrepreneurs are running innovative startups, F&B, fashion labels and wellness brands. Beyond just buying, share their businesses on social media, leave positive reviews and recommend them to friends to expand their reach.

 In Singapore, visit local brands and shops run by women entrepreneurs, such as Playmade at AMK Hub and Jurong Point or DMK shoes at Jurong Point. Supporting female-led businesses helps them grow and thrive in a competitive market.

Mentorship can have a profound impact on women’s careers and personal growth. Take the time to mentor a fellow female, whether in your workplace, school or community. Share your knowledge, offer advice and provide emotional support to help women advance in their careers and develop self-confidence. A little encouragement from those who have walked the path before can be incredibly empowering. Mentorship helps women break through the barriers of discrimination and limited opportunities, showing them that success is achievable.

Encouraging and facilitating access to regular health check-ups, mental health support and wellness activities are essential steps in supporting women’s overall health. Take advantage of national health initiatives, such as free screenings provided under the Women’s Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Campaign. Additionally, offering time for women to participate in activities that promote wellness, such as fitness classes at Fitness First at Jurong Point or yoga sessions at Platinum Yoga at AMK Hub, can help foster a holistic approach to wellbeing.

Supporting women's mental health involves advocating for better access to mental health services, reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, and empowering women to seek help without fear of judgment. Creating open spaces for conversations about mental health whether at home, in the workplace or within the community helps build a more supportive and understanding environment for women to address their struggles.

Equally important are government policies that promote women’s health and work-life balance, such as maternity and paternity leave. These policies provide critical support to women during pivotal moments in their lives, ensuring that they can care for their health, families and careers in a balanced and sustainable way.

Every day, women face ingrained gender biases and stereotypes in various aspects of life whether it’s in the workplace, in the media or in social settings. One of the most glaring examples of this bias is the gender pay gap, where women are often paid less than their male counterparts for the same work. This disparity not only reflects deeply rooted stereotypes about women’s roles but also perpetuates financial inequality.

When you witness a woman being unfairly judged or treated differently because of her gender, speak up. Challenge harmful stereotypes and assumptions. Support equal opportunities for women in all environments. Doing so helps break down the systemic structures of inequality and provides more space for women to thrive.

In addition to the individual actions above, there are also incredible community programs led or inspired by women that aim to create lasting change and empowerment. These initiatives provide support, resources and platforms for women to thrive. Participate in programmes such as that of AWARE Singapore, which advocates for women’s rights and social justice. Active participation is a powerful tool for change and can help create a more informed and equitable society.