Empowered to Thrive: A Young Women’s Guide to Financial Resilience
- Young Women's Leadership Connection
- Apr 30
- 2 min read
The first YWLC Mentorship workshop of 2025, held in partnership with e2i, spotlighted the critical role of financial literacy in navigating economic uncertainty, securing one’s future, and thriving across life stages. Financial literacy is not just a personal skill—it’s a leadership one. It builds resilience, empowers individuals to manage money with confidence, and enables long-term career and life planning.
In this session, YWLC welcomed Ruiming He, Co-founder of The Woke Salaryman, and Lynette Tan, Financial Planning Literacy Specialist at DBS Bank, for a lively and insightful discussion moderated by Celine Liow, Associate Director at Forte Law. From personal anecdotes to practical advice, the conversation offered rich takeaways for our young female leaders. Here are three key insights that emerged:
1. Planning for a Financially Secure Future
Self-sufficiency is only the beginning. True financial well-being requires long-term vision—understanding how today's financial decisions shape tomorrow’s opportunities. Whether it's saving consistently or investing strategically, financial planning equips individuals to meet evolving needs and pursue aspirations with confidence. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about making empowered life choices—such as career changes or personal goals—within your means.
2. Building Habits: Save Smart, Spend Wisely
Financial discipline enhances autonomy. Many use tools like budgeting trackers to monitor expenses and investments. While everyone’s balance between saving and investing differs, setting up an emergency fund is essential. This safety net provides security in the face of unexpected events like job loss or medical emergencies. Insurance also plays a vital role in Singapore, ensuring individuals and their loved ones are protected from life’s uncertainties.
3. Preparing for Life’s Milestones: Marriage, Housing, Parenthood
Financial planning becomes especially important during major life transitions. From marriage and homeownership to raising children, success lies in anticipating costs and aligning them with one’s financial capacity. A well-structured financial roadmap brings clarity, enabling couples and individuals to make confident, values-based decisions together.
Ultimately, financial planning is a lifelong journey—one that evolves with each chapter of life. For young women especially, developing financial resilience early builds a foundation for confidence, independence, and smarter decision-making. Whether navigating career pivots, launching a business, or growing a family, sound financial habits expand your possibilities.
Through workshops like these, the YWLC Mentorship Programme continues to champion financial literacy as a cornerstone of leadership—equipping the next generation of women to thrive on their own terms.
Disclaimer:
This article summarises key insights and experiences shared during a financial literacy workshop held in Singapore. The information presented is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, tax, or other professional advice. It does not take into account your individual financial situation, objectives, risk tolerance, or specific needs. Readers should always conduct their own due diligence and consult with a licensed financial advisor in Singapore before making any financial decisions based on the information provided in this article. The organizers and speakers of the workshop, and the publishers of this article, shall not be liable for any losses or damages arising from the use of or reliance on the information provided herein.
Acknowledgements:
Organising Committee: Caren Tso, Celine Liow, Jamie Low, Joping Chai
Speakers:
He Ruiming, Co-Founder of The Woke Salaryman
Lynette Tan, Financial Planning Literacy Specialist at DBS Bank
Venue Partner: e2i
