Lens on Singapore: From margins to mainstream - Getting women into leadership
Are you curious about the evolving landscape of gender equality in leadership roles? Our latest episode of Lens on Singapore, a podcast by The Business Times, features an in-depth discussion on women in leadership in Singapore.
In this episode, I bring together thought leaders Wong Su-Yen, board chairperson, James Cook University in Singapore, Gregory Vijayendran, partner, Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP and Yeo Wan Ling, NTUC Assistant Secretary-General and Director of U Women and Family and U SME. These experts offer unique insights rooted in their extensive experience and expertise.
Statistics vs real-life
Kicking off the discussion with eye-opening statistics, for example, I pointed out women now hold more than 20 per cent of board positions, a significant increase from a decade ago. However, 36 per cent of boards still have no female representation. These statistics set the stage for a rich discussion on why more women aren’t in leadership roles and what can be done to change this.
The podcast is not just about statistics and theories - it is replete with real-life experiences. For instance, Vijayendran shares his firsthand experiences working under female leadership, emphasising the strengths women bring to the table, such as high emotional intelligence and inclusivity. Yeo also offers valuable anecdotes about the complexities women face, including balancing career aspirations with caregiving responsibilities.
Do women want leadership roles
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The podcast doesn’t shy away from discussing differing viewpoints. Attempting to raise thought-provoking questions, I ask whether women might not aspire to leadership roles as much as men and if societal structures are at fault. The panelists address these questions candidly, offering a balanced view that will leave you pondering long after the episode ends.
Wong talks about the importance of board readiness programs and open executive search processes to ensure a diverse and competent pool of board-ready candidates. She emphasises the role of organisations like the Singapore Institute of Directors in this mission.
The value of dialogue
One of the key takeaways from this episode is the importance of ongoing dialogue. The episode ends on an open note, encouraging listeners to think deeply about the issues raised. This ensures that the conversation about women in leadership and gender equality keeps evolving.
If you’re invested in gender equality, leadership, listen now for a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities facing women in leadership roles today and equip yourself with the knowledge needed to advocate for change.
For more episodes, go to bt.sg/podcasts and if you have feedback or an episode idea, please get in touch at btpodcasts@sph.com.sg.
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Hosted by Claressa Monteiro, edited and produced by Claressa Monteiro, Emily Liu and Chai Pei Chieh.
With Wong Su-yen, board chairperson, James Cook University in Singapore; Gregory Vijayendran, partner, Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP; and Yeo Wan Ling, NTUC assistant secretary-general and director of U Women and Family and U SME.
A podcast by BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media
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