In a conversation with IN Diplomacy, International Women’s Federation of Commerce & Industry (IWFCIS) Singapore President, Ms Angeelia Phua, reflects on the spirit of “Give to Gain,” the strength of global sisterhood among women in business, and the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and leadership that empowers others.
A prominent advocate for women’s leadership and entrepreneurship, Ms Angeelia Phua has dedicated more than two decades to empowering women and professionals to develop confidence, leadership presence, and meaningful influence. As President of International Women’s Federation of Commerce and Industry Singapore and a Strategic Presence Coach, she has played an instrumental role in strengthening networks that connect women across industries and borders. Through mentorship, leadership development, and international collaboration, she continues to champion the advancement of women in business and leadership.
In a conversation with IN Diplomacy, Ms Angeelia Phua reflected on the deeper significance of the International Women’s Day 2026 theme, “Give to Gain.” The discussion explored the philosophy behind women supporting women, the importance of global networks, and how leadership rooted in generosity and collaboration can create opportunities for individuals and communities alike. For Ms Phua, the theme resonates strongly with the ethos of IWFCI and the values that underpin its global sisterhood.
“To me, ‘Give to Gain’ begins with the spirit of contributing without an agenda,” she explained. Within the IWFCI community, she believes that genuine support and encouragement among women create a powerful foundation for collective success. When members share their time, knowledge, and experience freely, trust naturally develops and opportunities emerge. “When women give their time, knowledge, and encouragement freely, something powerful happens,” she said. “We build trust, open doors for one another, and create a supportive community.” In the process, she noted, women often gain something even more valuable than professional advancement, meaningful relationships and shared growth.
Ms Phua’s passion for empowering others is deeply rooted in her professional journey as a Strategic Presence Coach and mentor. Over the years, she has worked with leaders and entrepreneurs to develop confidence, personal branding, and leadership presence. Her experience has reinforced a simple yet powerful belief: leadership is not only about influence or authority, but about enabling others to discover their potential. This philosophy aligns closely with IWFCI’s founding principles, which emphasise collaboration, mentorship, and the advancement of women in business.
Under her leadership, IWFCI Singapore continues to contribute to a vibrant international network of women entrepreneurs and professionals. Through its global presence, the organisation connects members across different countries, industries, and cultures, opening doors to new partnerships and opportunities. According to Phua, the strength of this network lies not only in its professional reach but also in its spirit of solidarity. “Being part of IWFCI means belonging to a global sisterhood of women in business,” she observed. Members gain access to international collaborations, referrals, and market opportunities while also benefiting from shared experiences and learning.
at GWTS in Mumbai, India
Beyond business opportunities, she emphasised the importance of mentorship and knowledge-sharing in nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs. Experienced women leaders, she believes, play a vital role in guiding younger professionals by sharing both successes and challenges. Honest conversations about the realities of entrepreneurship can help aspiring leaders navigate uncertainty and build resilience. Equally meaningful, she added, is the act of opening doors, whether through introductions, partnerships, or platforms that provide visibility for emerging voices.
A key element of IWFCI’s community, Phua noted, is the creation of a trusted and confidential support environment for women leaders. Leadership journeys can often feel isolating, particularly for women balancing professional ambitions with family and community responsibilities. Within such a space, members are able to share insights, seek advice, and support one another without judgement. This culture of trust fosters authentic connections and strengthens leadership capabilities. When women feel supported, she explained, they are better able to lead with confidence, clarity, and purpose.
Phua also highlighted how women’s leadership styles are often shaped by the many roles they navigate. Balancing business, family, and community responsibilities frequently cultivates qualities such as empathy, resilience, and collaboration. These experiences, she suggested, allow women leaders to approach leadership with both strength and understanding. Rather than focusing solely on outcomes, many women leaders prioritise people, relationships, and long-term impact, creating workplaces and communities that thrive together.
Reflecting on the broader significance of International Women’s Day, Phua offered an encouraging message to women entrepreneurs around the world. She urged women to recognise the value of their personal journeys and the inspiration their experiences can provide to others. Every challenge overcome and every lesson learned, she said, has the power to encourage another woman to pursue her ambitions.
In her view, the spirit of giving lies at the heart of meaningful leadership. When women support one another, they create a ripple effect that extends far beyond individual success. As Phua expressed poignantly, “The most powerful legacy a woman leader can leave behind is not just success, but the women she has empowered along the way.” Through mentorship, collaboration, and shared purpose, women leaders continue to shape stronger businesses, communities, and a more inclusive global future.
