AWARE welcomes new leadership as Corinna Lim steps down
Singapore’s leading women’s rights organization, the Association of Women for Action and Research (AWARE), announced a leadership transition on January 1, 2026. After 16 years at the helm, long-time executive director Corinna Lim is stepping down. Lim, 61, leaves behind a legacy of advocacy, policy engagement, and organizational growth that helped shape conversations on gender equality in Singapore.
New leadership: Lim Shoon Yin takes the helm
Lim Shoon Yin, aged 50, has been appointed as AWARE’s new executive director. With extensive experience in diversity, equity, and inclusion work, Lim brings a practical, results-oriented approach to advancing the rights and status of women in Singapore. Her background includes work in governance, anti-discrimination initiatives, and community outreach—areas that align with AWARE’s mission to challenge gender biases and promote inclusive public policy.
In a statement, Lim Shoon Yin described the transition as a continuation of AWARE’s commitments. “Our focus remains on practical reforms, safeguarding women’s safety, and ensuring equal opportunities in education, employment, and family life. I am honored to lead AWARE at this pivotal moment and to work with a dedicated team and our supporters to push for meaningful progress.”
Reflecting on Corinna Lim’s tenure
Corinna Lim’s 16-year leadership coincided with a dynamic period for women’s rights in Singapore. Under her direction, AWARE expanded its programs on gender-based violence, policy advocacy, and community education. Lim helped raise the organization’s profile and cultivated partnerships with government bodies, employers, and civil society groups. Her tenure was marked by the twin goals of safeguarding women’s safety and advancing gender equality in both public and private spheres.
Observers note that Lim’s stewardship contributed to a broader public dialogue about women’s representation and protection against discrimination. While challenges persist in areas like wage gaps, childcare access, and political participation, Lim’s tenure reinforced the importance of organized civic action as a catalyst for policy change.
The path forward for AWARE
With Lim Shoon Yin at the helm, AWARE plans to maintain momentum on its core issues while adapting to a changing landscape. Key priorities include:
- Strengthening protections for survivors of gender-based violence and expanding access to support services.
- Advancing workplace equality through employer partnerships, inclusive policies, and better reporting of disparities.
- Enhancing education and community outreach to foster a culture of respect and non-discrimination.
- Engaging with policymakers to translate advocacy into practical, enforceable improvements.
Community supporters and partners have expressed optimism about the transition. AWARE’s programs have historically benefited from collaborative networks, and Lim Shoon Yin is expected to strengthen these ties while pursuing evidence-based strategies that yield measurable outcomes.
AWARE’s mission remains central
As Singapore continues to address gender equity, AWARE’s role as a vocal civil society organization remains vital. The organization notes that leadership changes bring opportunities to reexamine strategies, scale impact, and broaden engagement with women from all walks of life. Lim Shoon Yin’s appointment signals a continued push for systemic change while honoring the groundwork laid by Corinna Lim.
Looking ahead
People involved in Singapore’s civil society expect AWARE to maintain its momentum, leveraging Lim Shoon Yin’s expertise in diversity and inclusion to spearhead new initiatives. The transition marks not just a change of leadership but a moment to reaffirm the organization’s commitment to protecting women’s rights, promoting equality, and building an inclusive society for all.
