Talks

Empowering Women: A Transformative Journey at Organon Singapore

Last week, I had the privilege of speaking at the Organon Singapore office, joining a powerful conversation on the importance of women’s health. As the founder of Books Beyond Borders and our sister brand, Two Storytellers, I was excited to share our journey—one rooted in creating opportunities and driving impact for women and girls.

The Story of Books Beyond Borders

Books Beyond Borders began with a simple idea: to create less waste and more chances for underserved communities to grow. It all started with a solo backpacking trip to Nepal that sparked an idea to raise money for a remote school. Over time, that small idea grew into a social enterprise bookstore that now helps send girls to school.

I shared how we got started, working out of my grandfather’s bedroom. Like any big dream, the journey wasn’t easy. We faced problems like running out of space and struggling with cash flow, but each challenge taught us something important.

As we grew, we saw the amazing impact of educating girls. Confident, educated women can lift up entire communities. This realization drove us to focus on funding scholarships for girls, making education the heart of what we do.

The Birth of Two Storytellers

Building on this momentum, we launched Two Storytellers in 2024—our sister brand dedicated to sustainably sourced, one-of-a-kind gifts. Partnering with skilled artisans in Nepal—many of whom are mothers supporting school-going children—we showcase their exceptional craftsmanship in our store.

But this new chapter is about more than beautiful gifts; it’s about empowering women with sustainable incomes, enabling them to support their families and uplift their communities.

At Organon, I spoke about the lives these initiatives have touched—girls who now dream beyond the confines of their villages and women artisans who’ve turned their skills into livelihoods. It’s not just about the products or programs; it’s about the ripple effect that happens when women are empowered to lead, create, and thrive.

Why Women’s Health Matters

The connection between women’s health and our work felt deeply intertwined at this event. Health is the foundation that allows girls to pursue education and women to sustain their crafts.

Organon’s mission to prioritize women’s health aligns beautifully with our belief that investing in women uplifts entire communities. A healthy, educated, and economically empowered woman creates a cascade of positive change—not just for herself, but for everyone around her.

Moving Forward Together

The session at Organon ended on a hopeful note, with a call to action for everyone to consider how they can contribute to the empowerment of women. Whether through supporting scholarships, choosing fair trade products, or advocating for women’s health, every effort counts.

If you’re looking to inspire your team or students with hands-on, engaging workshops, we’d love to partner with you. Our workshops are designed to empower, educate, and create lasting change. Whether you're a school, organization, or community group, we can tailor a program that suits your needs and goals.