To mark International Women’s Day 2020, we meet three inspiring Audi owners who have blazed a trail in different domains in their own unique way. Photo credits: Micky Wong

Associate Professor Stella Tan

A lawyer and scientist, Prof Stella Tan is the only person in Singapore to have received postgraduate academic qualifications in biological science, law and forensic science. In 2008, she helped establish the Forensic Science minor at the National University of Singapore (NUS), the first of its kind in Asia, and until 2019 she was seconded to the Attorney-General’s Chambers where she was lead prosecutor for many high-profile cases. In July this year, Prof Stella Tan will be appointed the Master of Raffles Hall at NUS, the first woman to hold this prestigious position.

Q: You’re a trailblazer in the field of forensic science education in Singapore, what has driven your success?

ST: I like doing challenging things and that includes problem solving. Forensic science is important work – we’re here to exonerate the innocent and prove the guilt of offenders. Experiments are difficult and they require long, painstaking hours in the lab. The central dogma of forensic science is “every contact leaves a trace”. In the same way, I believe that every interaction we have with another person leaves an impact, which is good to remember in a collaborative environment. My approach as a teacher is to treat all my students as individuals and as real people. So while I have to be tough to succeed in my career, I have a softer side too.

Q: Which woman inspires you?

ST: This isn’t such an easy question to answer as there are so few women leaders out there. Yet the person who comes to mind is our President Halimah Yacob, who is a fellow law alumnus from NUS. I find her a genuinely nice person, so approachable and welcoming. Even though she holds an esteemed position, we know that she is like any of us.  

Q: What will be the biggest challenge for the next generation of women and what advice would you share?

ST: While it remains a male dominated society, it’s a good time now as we have an equal platform that’s no longer based on gender. Gaining leadership skills is key for women to help get themselves heard too. The next generation need more role models - particularly in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subjects. I’m pleased that the Forensic Science module is the most popular undergraduate science programme at NUS for both male and female students.

Marion Nicole Teo

Company director Marion is an executive coach, EQ master trainer and frequent keynote speaker. She specialises in training leaders of industry to develop more self-awareness, resilience and confidence to help boost their personal success and happiness. In 1987, she was crowned Miss Singapore Universe and later reached the semi-final in the Miss Universe pageant. She is the author of a self-help book “Happy Once Again: Beauty from Inside Out” in which shares her struggles as a single mother, her bout with depression, and how she overcame them.

Q: You’ve overcome personal struggles to become a successful executive coach and public speaker, what helped you gain such winning confidence?

MNT : I am tough on myself, but I have learnt to accept myself as I am and enjoy life as it unfolds. I still get moments of self-doubt, but I can quickly change my state through self-talk such as “you never know until you try” and “everything is a blessing”. It also helps to dress well and stand tall! I am grateful to have a good support system like my family and close friends, and my faith keeps me strong. I try to live each day with a positive energy, do the things I love, let go of the things I cannot control, have “me time” and do volunteer work.


Q: Which woman inspires you?

MNT: I’ve met many amazing women in my life who’ve inspired me. But to name one, then I would say Michelle Obama as she is smart, sensitive, authentic, charismatic, elegant, resilient, charitable and so much more. I am drawn to her as she has been an advocate for education, physical activity, healthy eating and poverty awareness as the US First Lady. This inspires me as it is in line with my mission to help others find balance in their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being as well as happiness and inner peace. 

Q: What will be the biggest challenge for the next generation of women and what advice would you share?

MNT: Like so many women before me and after me, I believe our challenge is finding balance as we have so many roles in life – a daughter, sister, mother, friend, colleague, boss, etc and may feel torn and stressed as a result. As a start, believe in yourself – your thoughts and words become you, so listen to your thoughts and tune into your emotions. Allow yourself to receive and know that it is ok to ask for help, it doesn’t make you weak. At the end of the day, just be the best version of yourself, there is no need to compare yourself to others.

Ann Teoh

Ann is an award-winning fashion designer who has become one of the most recognised names in Singapore’s bridal and evening gown scene. An impoverished upbringing failed to dent her determination to succeed in the highly competitive fashion world. She started from the bottom, working for a textile company straight out of school, then gradually refined her design skills and craftsmanship before starting her own label in 1996. Today, her bespoke and ready-to-wear collections attract a discerning local and international clientele.

Q: You have been one of Singapore’s highly sought-after couturiers for two decades, how have you stayed on top in such a competitive industry?

AT: I love what I do and do what I love, but being passionate is not good enough to stay in the industry. I strongly believe in quality, fine workmanship and attention to details. Always strive to be original, have pride in our creations and provide personalised services. A lot is down to building a strong trustworthy team – treat your team-mates well and maintain the high standards. To be amongst the top requires conscientiousness and resilience. Stay abreast and keep constantly updated.


Q: Which woman inspires you?

AT: American literary icon Maya Angelou is an inspiration and was successful because she lived by example and made things happen. She was a poet, author, singer, activist, historian, leader, and mentor who taught us what it means to live and lead with your heart in every facet of life. Like her, I had a difficult childhood and know what hard life is all about. Since young, I was passionate about fashion but too poor to study in any design school. I learned everything hands-on, so I can say I am a self-made designer.

One of my favourite quotes from Angelou: “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humour, and some style."

Q: What will be the biggest challenge for the next generation of women and what advice would you share?

AT: Increasingly I hear younger women lamenting the lack of work-life balance. We live in a fast-paced world, and the world doesn’t wait for anyone. Digitalisation and technology are quickly taking over and the ability to adapt quickly and think out of the box is crucial. Juggling the physical and mental demands of life could stifle creativity and passions. So women must make room to enjoy me-time, to pamper themselves, to travel and recharge. Remember to work hard and play harder to live an adventurous and amazing life.