Overview of the Leadership Transition
The Association of Women for Action and Research (AWARE), Singapore’s long‑standing women’s rights organization, has announced a leadership transition that marks a new chapter for the group. On January 1, 2026, Corinna Lim, 61, steps down after 16 years as AWARE’s executive director. She is succeeded by Lim Shoon Yin, 50, a professional with a track record in diversity, equity, and inclusion work. The change signals both continuity and renewal for AWARE’s mission to advance gender equality in Singapore.
About AWARE and Its Mission
AWARE has long served as a leading voice on women’s rights in Singapore, addressing issues from violence against women to workplace equality and access to resources. The organization emphasizes evidence‑based advocacy, community education, and strategic partnerships with government, civil society, and the private sector. Leadership transitions at nonprofit groups like AWARE often focus on preserving institutional memory while injecting fresh perspectives to tackle evolving social challenges.
Corinna Lim’s Legacy and Contributions
During her 16 years as executive director, Corinna Lim steered AWARE through periods of rapid change in how women’s rights are discussed in the public sphere. Her tenure saw organizational growth, increased partnerships, and heightened engagement with a broader audience. Under Lim’s leadership, AWARE worked to strengthen protections for women, enhance policy dialogue, and expand support services for individuals facing gender‑based issues. Colleagues describe her dedication as a hallmark of the organization’s culture, and her tenure is widely associated with advancing AWARE’s visibility and impact domestically.
Strategic Focus and Achievements
Specific milestones attributed to Lim include strengthening the nonprofit’s programs, elevating grassroots voices, and guiding the organization through shifts in funding and public discourse. While leadership transitions always carry questions about the next phase, Lim’s stewardship provides a stable foundation for continuity as AWARE pursues its ongoing agenda in women’s rights, safety, and equality.
New Leader: Shoon Yin Brings a Fresh Perspective
Lim Shoon Yin, the incoming executive director, brings a background in diversity, equity, and inclusion work. Her appointment is seen as aligning AWARE with contemporary approaches to advocacy that emphasize inclusive leadership, collaborative governance, and evidence‑based policy work. Yin’s experience is expected to complement AWARE’s existing programs while exploring new initiatives that respond to emerging gender equity concerns in Singapore and the region.
What This Means for AWARE and Its Communities
Leadership transitions can reshape an organization’s strategy, culture, and stakeholder relationships. For AWARE, the new leadership is anticipated to continue the group’s core priorities—protecting women’s rights, promoting safety, and advancing evidence‑based advocacy—while inviting collaborative opportunities with government and civil society partners. The change may also invigorate volunteer engagement, fund‑raising efforts, and public programming as the organization adapts to evolving social norms and policy landscapes.
Looking Ahead
As AWARE embarks on this transition, supporters and beneficiaries will be watching how the organization preserves its mission amid a changing advocacy environment. The leadership handover reflects a broader trend in civil society where experienced stewardship meets renewed energy and fresh ideas. Stakeholders will be keen to see how Shoon Yin’s approach shapes AWARE’s programs, partnerships, and influence in promoting gender equality in Singapore.
