SWA History & Milestones

SWA Celebrates 70th Anniversay

In 2024, the Singapore Women’s Association (SWA) celebrates its 70th anniversary, a remarkable milestone reflecting decades of dedication to empowering women, supporting seniors, and fostering community well-being. Since its founding in 1954 as the Siglap Girls’ Club, SWA has evolved into a prominent organisation championing holistic support, cultural enrichment, and initiatives that promote inclusivity and social resilience. This landmark year honours SWA’s enduring legacy and commitment to creating a positive impact through its diverse programmes and community projects.

45th Annual Charity Dinner 2022

The 45th Annual Charity Dinner of SWA successfully utilized digital technology for its invitation process and appeal for donations. This resulted in a reduction in printing costs while still effectively reaching its target audience. Using digital tools to facilitate invitations and donation appeals demonstrated the organization's commitment to staying up-to-date with modern advancements and implementing sustainable practices.

SWA Symrise Project Rebuild

SWA and Symrise collaborated to assist women and children impacted by domestic violence and taking temporary refuge in shelter rebuild their lives for a better futures. The project commenced in October 2021 with Star Shelter Project under Singapore Council of Women's Organisations.

Digital Transformation Project

Singapore Women's association embarked on a digital transformation journey in the midst of the pandemic. Key objective is to enable members to work and organise activities remotely and be ready for future pandemic scenarios. Important office documents and photo archives are being digitised and made accessible online as well.

Launched Online Laughter Yoga

Social distancing has driven many people to delve into the darker realms of our minds. It is tough for regular folks with mobility and ability. This mental social isolation is further amplified for residents of hospices, homes and hospitals when visitations from loved one were restricted for months. SWA brought some cheer and joy for the residents at Ren Ci via Zoom for the first time.

First Online NDP Celebration at Ren Ci Community Hospital

Social distancing has driven many people to delve into the darker realms of our minds. It is tough for regular folks with mobility and ability. This mental social isolation is further amplified for residents of hospices, homes and hospitals when visitations from loved one were restricted for months. SWA brought some cheer and joy for the residents at Ren Ci via Zoom for the first time.

Stephanie Yong has been appointed as chairperson for SVP

Anny Leow as co-chairperson

Hosted 22nd Federation of Asia Pacific Women's Association Convention in Singapore

Participated Miss Asia Pacific International and Miss Tourism Queen of the Year International

SWA participated Miss Asia Pacific International and Miss Tourism Queen for the very first time.

SWA elected the 4th President, Ms Lee Li Hua

SWA's Literacy Initiatives and Cultural Impact in the 2010s

In the 2010s, SWA focused on literacy, leadership, and international participation. In 2013, SWA initiated Project Literacy through Theatre. The organization hosted the 22nd Federation of Asia Pacific Women's Association Convention in 2016 and saw Ms. Lee Li Hua elected as the fourth president the same year. SWA secured the franchise of Miss Supranational in 2015, further expanding its cultural impact. Additionally, the decade was marked by active participation in international beauty pageants and sports festivals.

Modernization, New Leadership, and Expanded Outreach

The 2000s saw SWA adapting to changing times and expanding its initiatives. In 2000, the mission statement was revised to reflect contemporary challenges, and SWA President Susy Chia-T'Sai was elected FAWA President. Notable projects included the launch of Project I Care at Francis Villa Home for the Aged in 2003, the introduction of the SWA Wellness Programme in 2004, and the acceptance of a partner invitation with Braddell Heights CC, IRCC in 2007. The decade also witnessed the launch of Project Taking Charge for women in shelter homes in 2008. In 2002, Sara Mei Woo, was elected 3rd President, SWA. She has been an active member of SWA since 1975.

SWA's Community Initiatives and Leadership in the 1990s

During the 1990s, SWA continued its advocacy and community service. In 1991, Mrs. Susy Chia-T'sai was elected as the second president of SWA. The organization moved its operations to Serangoon Office in 1993 and launched the SWA Project Literacy for underprivileged children in Nepal in 1996. SWA also organized its first Family Walk fundraising project in 1997 and promoted child safety at KK Women's and Children's Hospital the same year.

SWA's Leadership and Global Outreach in the 1980s

The 1980s were characterized by significant leadership and global engagement for SWA. In 1980, Mrs. Seow Peck Leng was elected FAWA President, and SWA became a founding member of the Singapore Council of Women's Organisations. The organization hosted the 5th FAWA Convention in Singapore in 1982 and the 7th Convention in 1986. The launch of the Singapore VisionCare Programme (SVP) in 1990 marked a major milestone in SWA's commitment to community health.

Advocacy, Education, and Community Outreach

Throughout the 1970s, SWA expanded its influence and outreach. In 1972, it organized a seminar on the Women's Charter, emphasizing women's rights and legal protection. By 1975, SWA had established a Women's Year Scholarship's Fund to support deserving students, organized its first beauty pageant, and strengthened international links with similar organizations. The decade also saw the initiation of the White Cane Club and Recreation Centre in 1973, and the start of the annual CNY lunch for the elderly in 1977.

Officially became the Singapore Women's Association

The 1960s marked a transformative period for SWA as it officially became the Singapore Women's Association in 1960. During this decade, SWA conducted a significant survey on 'New Life in New Home' in 1965, addressing the challenges faced by new residents in Singapore. The organization also played a crucial role in promoting racial harmony and understanding, particularly in 1968, amidst a rapidly changing social landscape.

Singapore Women's Association (SWA) was founded as the Siglap Girls' Club in 1954

In the 1950s, the Singapore Women's Association (SWA) was founded as the Siglap Girls' Club in 1954, providing essential support to underprivileged girls in Singapore. By 1956, the organization had established itself as a key player in the region by becoming one of the founder members of the Federation of Asian Women's Associations, with its headquarters in Manila. This decade laid the foundation for SWA's long-term commitment to women's and girls' welfare.