WIMAR Singapore Member Spotlight - Malan Wu
Authors: Troy Mcnamara and Malan Wu
Founded in 2013, WIMARSG is a mining community that provides networking, mentoring and professional development opportunities to both men and women alike in Singapore's mining and resource industry. Together, we progress through the volatile status quo with inspiring and passionate leaders who come together to become advocates for change.?
With new leaders stepping up on 20th April, let’s welcome our incoming Board members and give them our fullest support in bringing their visions for WIMAR SG to life. Today, let’s meet our recently appointed Co-Vice President who is working alongside James and Cynthia – Malan Wu.
For this article, we asked Malan about her time, motivations and vision for WIMAR Singapore.?
Troy Mcnamara:?
What motivated you to take on your respective roles??
Malan Wu:
I am incredibly grateful for the countless kindness I have received to date, personally and at work. I feel open, stronger, and more capable when others support me. We sometimes joke about “sharing is caring,” which is something kids do more naturally. We, adults, sometimes forget about this when we grow up and get serious about life. I don’t always get to reciprocate the kindness I have received. But I can help others realise their potential by actively championing diversity and inclusion in my organisation and industry.?
Since my time in Singapore, I have volunteered at WIMAR SG, co-leading the networking and professional development workstream, coaching and mentoring females, and building allyship with male supporters. WIMAR is turning ten this year, and I am honoured that I have been trusted to lead strategy and work program delivery as Vice President in this special time.?
Troy Mcnamara:?
What have you enjoyed/valued most about your time with WIMAR so far??
Malan Wu:
As a WIMAR member, I have broadened my network, forged lifelong relationships, and developed professional skills through WIMAR. I am impressed by the quality programs and events WIMAR has delivered and consistently benefited its members since its humble beginning.?
As a WIMAR volunteer, I love WIMAR’s drive to influence positive changes in the Singapore mining and resource ecosystem, and the energy and dedication from fellow volunteers inspire me. Last but not least, I am grateful for the strong support from member companies’ leadership which enabled WIMAR to realise its vision.?
Troy Mcnamara:?
What excites you most about WIMAR in the coming 2 years??
Malan Wu:
WIMAR SG has evolved and achieved tremendous success since its inception. Several mega trends such as sustainability, digitalisation, and heightened demand for future-proof people strategy are unfolding in our world and our industry, which demand a refinement of strategy and a change of approach in how we impact our community.?
Going into 2023 and beyond, WIMAR will build on its success, pivot, and refine its brand and outreach. I am excited to see WIMAR rise to these challenges, partnering with our members and the wider community to grow and support each other and turn these challenges into growth opportunities.?
Troy Mcnamara:?
What are 1 or 2 key achievements you would like to see WIMAR tackle in the coming 2 years??
Malan Wu:
In the next two years, our work program will continue to build on its five pillars with offerings related to leadership, mentoring, innovation, I&D knowledge sharing, and networking. In the past ten years, WIMAR has helped prepare many leaders, made many connections among our members, and broadened our members’ horizons on DEI.?
In my tenure, I would like to work towards ensuring WIMAR strengthens partnerships with its members to continue a disciplined drive for DEI in its organisation and broader impact on the wider Singapore mining and resource sector. Secondly, it is to also ensure WIMAR plays a bigger role in inspiring actions that will progress our communities. These are basic “inspirations,” but if we do these basics well, we contribute to making the world better.?
Troy Mcnamara:?
What advice do you have for aspiring leaders in the mining industry in Singapore??
Malan Wu:
Your life story is your leadership story. Direct your energy and efforts to understand yourself and others. Prioritise deep connection with people around you, enjoy what you do, and insist on quality in the present moment. As you strive to build the best version of yourself, you are touching on other people’s lives and leading.
Are you looking to give back? Drop us an email at [email protected] to join one of WIMAR’s active committees