Volunteerism is passionate action. Advisor Josephine Kwan reflects on how giving back has shaped her life and career in this inspiring interview.
What inspired you to join SAAP in the early days of your career as an Admin Professional?
I was attracted to the opportunity to learn from members with diverse backgrounds and experiences within the administration community.
Upon relocating to Singapore from Hong Kong in the early 1990s, I viewed SAAP as an association that represented my profession and offered avenues for personal growth while enabling me to contribute to the community. (SAAP was previously known as SAPES from 1971 to April 2006.) I decided to join SAPES as a Fellow Member in February 2006, after establishing myself and ensuring my children were well-settled.
How do you continue to support and guide the new council team in your advisory role?
As an Advisor, I consistently assist and guide the new council members, acting as a reliable resource whenever they seek advice. My goal is to help them gain the clarity, background, and self-assurance necessary for making well-informed decisions independently.
Leading with Heart: A Conversation with SAAP President 2025/2026, Ms Sim Siew Gek on her 30 Years of Growth, Grit, and Gratitude
You’ve been a member for many years and served multiple terms as President. What has kept you committed to SAAP all this time?
It’s the people. Every council term brings a new mix of members with different strengths and personalities. We may not always agree, but we work through our differences with respect and teamwork. The learning along the way has been rewarding, and the friendships formed have lasted through the years..
As President, what is your current vision, mission, or direction for SAAP moving forward into its 55th year and beyond?
My vision is to make SAAP ready for the future — more digital, more connected, and more inclusive. I hope we can attract younger members, bring in new learning opportunities, and continue to be a trusted platform for all admin professionals in Singapore.
The Woman of Today 2024 (Wanita Hari Ini 2024) Award
Ms Nur Diyana, PR Chairman of SAAP, received The Woman of Today 2024 (Wanita Hari Ini 2024) Award organized by Women’s Empowerment Singapore (WES) on 24 Feb 2024.
Women of today are for individuals who have made significant achievements in both career and as a whole. SHE believes, she supports and inspires many, with her Kindness and Perseverance she builds her own Systems Where she proves that Women get stronger when they support one another.
EA (Executive Award) 2017
Past Management Council Member Ranjana Rajwani was among the top 10 Finalists of the EA Award 2017.