IWD Series #2 - Women in Leadership

1 March 2024

by Professor Gan Siew Hua
Head, School of Pharmacy

two managers talking

Who was/is your role model and/or leadership mentor?

My mother is my role model. She was a housewife with boundless love and warmth, and she raised six successful children. Her support was instrumental in nudging us to our respective career journeys.

What has been the most significant barrier in your career?

I view barriers as opportunities to learn and improve myself. In fact, the more “barriers” I have, the more forward steps I take. I can’t recall any significant barriers in my life, these are merely “life stories” or experiences. Positive reframing!

What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of yourself?

My relationship with my four daughters is one of open conversation in a safe space - we can express ourselves freely anytime we need to and that keeps me grounded. In terms of self-care, movement is important. I enjoy Zumba. For an hour each day, I forget any issues I may have while on the dance floor. I also enjoy walking my dogs every morning before work along a leafy tree-lined path. It helps me start my day feeling happy & rejuvenated. I love my cats too - I hug them daily before and after work.

How can women empower other women?

Firstly, it’s so important to stay positive and keep smiling! It’s important for women leaders to be good role models for other women to emulate. We should provide each other with support, be good listeners and be less judgmental. I also think it is great to share success stories with other women (and men!) so we all can learn and draw strength from each other.

What is your message to the next generation?

My four pearls of wisdom to the next generation are:

  • The world may be a tough place but don’t forget that you are tougher.
  • If you help others, don’t expect anything in return. Just help anyway.
  • Every day you are given a blank sheet to write your story with, write a good story!
  • If you set small goals aligned with your final goal, you will reach your final goal eventually.