Latest news with #RealStories
New Paper
3 days ago
- Health
- New Paper
MSF will keep building on collaborative approach in supporting families
Shortly after getting married in 2021, social worker Eleanore James and her husband Timothy James started trying for a child - something Mr James had always wanted. But two months in, she experienced a sharp abdominal pain which landed her in the hospital. A battery of tests found cancer in both her ovaries. She said: "My oncologist told us the very devastating news that it is not possible for us to have children. "I felt like our world crashed. I had to make a difficult decision to propose an annulment to Timothy since we were still newly married." But Mr James refused: "I did not even want to reconsider. I remembered my wedding vows towards her - in sickness and in health." On May 31, the couple's story was featured in an interactive exhibition at the launch of this year's National Family Festival. The showcase features a selection of stories about the ups and downs of family life submitted by over 500 families for a campaign run by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) called "Real Families, Real Stories". Mrs Eleanore James and her husband Timothy James participated in MSF's "Real Families, Real Stories" campaign because they wanted to bring hope to other couples. PHOTO: COURTESY OF TIMOTHY AND ELEANOR JAMES Mrs James, now 36, and Mr James, a 43-year-old halfway house operations assistant, chose to participate because they wanted to bring hope to other couples. The launch event was held at the Singapore Expo, and marks the start of a series of events across the island in June. Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli gave a speech at the festival's launch - his first since the general election and being sworn in on May 23. He reiterated the Government's upcoming plans to support families, such as the increase in shared parental leave from 26 to 30 weeks in April 2026, and more benefits for couples who have two or more children announced at the 2025 Budget. He said: "Family is critical to our journey in our life, and also as a nation... As our society evolves, so do the needs of our families. They change, and therefore we must ensure that familial support systems remain relevant and robust." These moves were implemented as part of a plan launched three years ago - "A Singapore Made for Families 2025", he said. "This marked a pivotal shift in how we support and uplift families. Through the plan, we established a collaborative approach, where we integrate government support across every stage of family life, to ensure that families have a comprehensive ecosystem of support." The launch event for this year's National Family Festival at the Singapore Expo marks the start of a series of events across the island in June. PHOTO: LIANHE ZAOBAO MSF will continue to build on the progress of the last three years, Mr Masagos added. At the Forward Singapore engagement sessions, many shared their hopes and concerns for the future, including in areas such as cost of living, housing accessibility and affordability, and fostering more family-friendly practices, he noted. "We have heard you, and will continue to enhance our support for families," he said. The Government's vision is to build a Singapore made for families, but this is not something it can do alone, Mr Masagos said. "We cannot realise this vision on our own. Throughout the decades, we have seen community participation and partnership playing a significant role in the success of our nation, and therefore in fulfilling this vision." With the partnership between the community, corporates and the Government, efforts are amplified and more lives are reached, he added. "We all have a part to play in this journey. Let us continue to build a Singapore in which every family feels valued and supported, wherever they may be in life," he said. One family at the event was retired contractor Toh Chee Keong, 57, and housewife Vu Thi Sam, 42, with their six children aged between four and 18. Mr Toh said having a large family is a joy, but good finances are the most important ingredient in making it work. He said: "I'm lucky enough that I can support my family... We have two helpers to do the housework, which really lessens our burden. So we just enjoy watching our children and playing with them."
Straits Times
3 days ago
- Health
- Straits Times
She proposed a marriage annulment after cancer diagnosis; he chose to stay on
Mrs Eleanore James and her husband Timothy James participated in MSF's "Real Families, Real Stories" campaign because they wanted to bring hope to other couples. PHOTO: COURTESY OF TIMOTHY AND ELEANOR JAMES She proposed a marriage annulment after cancer diagnosis; he chose to stay on SINGAPORE – Shortly after getting married in 2021, social worker Eleanore James and her husband Timothy James started trying for a child – something Mr James has always wanted. But two months in, she experienced a sharp abdominal pain which landed her in the hospital. A battery of tests found cancer in both her ovaries. She said: 'My oncologist told us the very devastating news that it is not possible for us to have children. 'I felt like our world crashed. I had to make a difficult decision to propose an annulment to Timothy since we were still newly married.' This decision was well-thought out, she told The Straits Times. She said: 'I made this decision since Timothy adores children and always wants to be the father of our children. It would be selfish of me to keep him by my side and rob him of his desire.' But Mr James refused. He said: 'I did not even want to reconsider. I remembered my wedding vows towards her – in sickness and in health. My love for her outweighs my desire to have our own children.' On May 31, the couple's story was featured in an interactive exhibition at the launch of this year's National Family Festival. The showcase features a selection of stories about the ups and downs of family life submitted by over 500 families for a campaign run by the Ministry of Social and Family Development called 'Real Families, Real Stories' . Mrs James, now 36, and Mr James, a 43-year-old halfway house operations assistant, chose to participate because they wanted to bring hope to other couples. They said in a joint e-mail to ST: 'Not having children may not mean the family is incomplete. It can be just spending time and finding ways to keep a marriage strong.' The launch event was held at the Singapore Expo, and marks the start of a series of events across the island in June. The launch event for this year's National Family Festival at the Singapore Expo marks the start of a series of events across the island in June. PHOTO: LIANHE ZAOBAO Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli gave a speech at the festival's launch. He reiterated the government's upcoming plans to support families, such as the increase of shared parental leave from 26 to 30 weeks in April 2026, and more benefits for couples who have two or more children announced in this year's Budget. He said: 'Family is critical to our journey in our life, and also as a nation. '…As our society evolves, so do the needs of our families. They change, and therefore, we must ensure that familial support systems remain relevant and robust.' One family at the event was retired contractor Toh Chee Keong, 57, and housewife Vu Thi Sam, 42 with their six children aged between four and 18. Mr Toh said having a large family is a joy, but good finances are the most important ingredient in making it work. He said: 'I'm lucky enough that I can support my family... We have two helpers to do the housework, which really lessens our burden. So we just enjoy watching them and playing with them.' Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
Hans India
18-05-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Sheroes amongst us: The real stories of women who refused to settle
In a world that often celebrates perfection over perseverance, Sheroes Amongst Us – Real Women, Real Stories arrives as a powerful reminder of the grit, grace, and guts that define real success. Co-authored by Falguni Desai, a seasoned IT leader and independent technology consultant, and Dr Amit Nagpal, the anthology features 32 remarkable women who have redefined what it means to lead, inspire, and transform. With a foreword by Shardha Sharma, Founder & CEO of YourStory Media, and an afterword by Sachin Karnik, Founder & CEO of The Great Unicorn Hunt, this book is more than just a collection of success stories—it's a movement. 'When I entered the IT industry, I had no mentors, no guideposts, and no footsteps to follow,' recalls Falguni Desai. 'I was the first in my family to step into this world, and every decision came with uncertainty. That's when I truly understood the value of mentorship.' That seed of experience became the foundation for Sheroes Amongst Us. For Desai, the book is both a tribute and a torch—honouring the journeys of trailblazing women and lighting the way for others to follow. 'These stories go beyond inspiration,' she says. 'They offer real lessons in resilience, perseverance, and determination. Our goal is for readers to not just see these women as role models, but as potential mentors—people they can learn from and connect with.' A Tapestry of Grit, Transformation, and Dreams Though the women featured come from diverse industries—from technology and entrepreneurship to social impact and leadership—a few key themes emerged across all narratives. 'What stood out consistently were the qualities of grit, transformation, and dreams,' says Desai. 'None of these women had an easy path. But what set them apart was their ability to keep going, to evolve with every challenge, and to never lose sight of their dreams.' Rather than presenting success as a linear journey, the book explores the messy, powerful process of becoming. The women profiled didn't wait for perfect timing—they created their own moments of courage. 'This book isn't about glossy accomplishments,' Desai emphasizes. 'It's about showing what's possible when you refuse to give up.' Curating the Sheroes The selection process was intentional and inclusive. The authors sought women who had made significant impact in their fields—those who had shattered stereotypes, built businesses, led corporate change, mentored others, or influenced communities through thought leadership. 'We wanted the reader to find someone they could relate to,' Desai explains. 'Someone who walked a similar path, faced similar doubts, and still forged ahead.' One standout example is Reinu Shah, a startup mentor who has funded and guided several women entrepreneurs breaking barriers in male-dominated industries. Others include tech professionals, leadership coaches, and influencers who use their platforms to empower others. The result is a mosaic of stories where success looks many different ways—but always has the same backbone: courage. Awakening the Shero Within Desai hopes the book becomes more than just a read—it becomes a call to action. 'Every woman has a Shero within her,' she says. 'This book is a reminder that your story matters, your voice matters, and your dreams are valid.' 'These women didn't wait for opportunities—they created them. And they didn't let their setbacks define them. They turned adversity into fuel.' The message is particularly poignant for those at the beginning of their journey, or those stuck at a crossroads. For them, Sheroes Amongst Us offers not just inspiration but a roadmap. 'If you ever doubt yourself, turn to these stories. Let them be your mirror and your compass,' Desai urges. 'Becoming a Shero isn't about perfection. It's about persistence.' The Perspective of Motherhood Motherhood, for many of the Sheroes, became a crucible that sharpened their leadership, deepened their empathy, and widened their worldview. 'It didn't redefine who they were—it expanded who they were,' Desai reflects. 'It grounded them, made them more focused, and more resilient—not just professionally, but personally.' Far from being a hindrance, motherhood became a catalyst for intentional living. It influenced how these women made decisions, took risks, and built careers that reflected their values. 'Motherhood gave them a more compassionate and realistic lens through which to view the world,' she notes. 'And that's exactly what today's leadership needs—less bravado, more authenticity.' The Invisible Load of Working Mothers One of the most raw and honest themes explored during the interviews was the emotional toll of being a working mother. 'Guilt is often the first emotion a working mother faces—not because she's failing, but because society conditions her to believe she is,' says Desai. 'If she forgets a school event or misses a detail, it's seen not as a human oversight, but as a failure of character.' Desai describes the mental tightrope that working mothers walk—constantly trying to be present, perfect, and prepared. 'In nuclear families without extended support, this pressure intensifies. Many women aren't stepping back from work because they lack ambition—they're doing it because they lack a support system.' She adds that what exhausts these women isn't always the work itself, but the invisible labour of managing expectations—internal and external. 'It's time we start acknowledging and addressing that.'
Fashion Value Chain
01-05-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
After Heroes, Now Sheroes: Bloggers Alliance Launches Second Inspiring Anthology Across Multiple Cities
After the resounding success of Heroes Amongst Us, Bloggers Alliance proudly announces the launch of its second book, Sheroes Amongst Us – Real Women, Real Stories. The anthology honors 32 remarkable women who have shattered stereotypes and redefined success across leadership, entrepreneurship, technology, and social impact. Shradha Sharma, Founder, YourStory Media, congratulating the Sheroes at the Mumbai launch The launch events are being celebrated across multiple cities at iconic locations including Mumbai (MMB Conclave at Bombay Stock Exchange), Delhi NCR (Utsav, The Square), and Bengaluru (AccelHERate & DivHERsity Awards, by HerKey, Taj Bengaluru), reflecting the national impact and wide admiration for these inspiring stories. Iron Women, who Shattered Glass Ceilings A distinctive highlight of Sheroes Amongst Us is its powerful lineup of women who made it to the very top-16 Board Members, 8 Founders, 7 Advisors, and 1 Farmer-which showcases the diversity and excellence of women leaders who have made extraordinary contributions in their respective fields. Each story captures professional achievements and the grit, passion, and resilience behind the success, and each shero has created social impact in her own way. Shradha Congratulates the Sheroes Shradha Sharma, Founder, YourStory Media, congratulated the Sheroes at the Mumbai launch and shared, 'I believe that every woman who stands, in fact, stands not for oneself but for every woman, every girl.' She called the book 'Phenomenal' and gave Kudos to the authors and Sheroes. She also requested the audience to give a standing ovation to the Sheroes featured in the book. Speaking at the launch, Dr. Amit Nagpal, Co-author and President of Bloggers Alliance, said, 'Sheroes Amongst Us is a movement, not just a book. It urges every woman to awaken the leader within, draw courage from real-life role models, and carve her unique journey of impact and fulfillment.' Commenting on the initiative, Falguni Desai, Co-author of the book, said, 'Through authentic storytelling, we want to foster hope, belief, and action among readers, especially women aspiring for leadership roles.' Key Features Diverse Narratives : The anthology presents stories of women from varied backgrounds, highlighting their struggles, breakthroughs, and unwavering dedication to making a difference. Each narrative offers readers inspiration, guidance, and reassurance, especially those seeking mentorship or navigating uncharted paths. Empowerment Through Storytelling: The book emphasizes resilience and grit by delving into personal and professional experiences, encouraging readers to embrace their potential and rise against all odds. The first book, Heroes Amongst Us, by Dr Amit Nagpal, had set a strong foundation by featuring unsung heroes and received tremendous appreciation from thought leaders, media, and readers alike. Building on that momentum, Sheroes Amongst Us continues the mission by spotlighting women whose stories can inspire a generation. Sheroes Amongst Us has been co-published by Bloggers Alliance and OakBridge Publishing and is available through leading online platforms and offline bookstores. It is already generating a huge buzz across literary platforms, women's leadership circles, TV, and digital-social media. The book has also received excellent reviews on platforms like Amazon and Goodreads About Bloggers Alliance Bloggers Alliance is a non-profit organization, launched in 2019, and dedicated to empowering digital creators and storytellers. It provides a platform for education, collaboration, and recognition through workshops, awards, books, and content-driven initiatives. Bloggers Alliance was conceived by Dr. Amit Nagpal, a bestselling author, renowned speaker, and CXO coach. As Knowledge Partner of Board Stewardship, Dr Amit develops and curates thought leadership content on board leadership. For more information about the organization or the book, please visit All queries can be directed to president@
