The Charlotte Mannya Maxeke Institute’s Portraits of Power initiative celebrates pioneering women whose courage and leadership transformed societies, including Singaporean politician and women’s rights advocate MS. Chan Choy Soong.
The South African High Commission in Singapore has congratulated the Charlotte Mannya Maxeke Institute (CMMI) on its Portraits of Power initiative, an exhibition celebrating the “Herstory” of pioneering women from around the world. The initiative commemorates the 70th anniversary of South Africa’s historic 1956 Women’s March and honours women whose courage, leadership and vision have contributed to advancing freedom, equality and social progress across generations.
Among the distinguished women featured is Ms. Chan Choy Soong, a pioneering Singaporean politician and prominent advocate for women’s rights. Remembered as one of Singapore’s celebrated “iron ladies”, Ms. Chan was a strong voice for women at a formative period in the nation’s development. Her leadership and advocacy contributed to the advancement of women’s rights and helped shape important social reforms in Singapore.
Ms. Chan Choy Soong is particularly remembered for her role in the drafting and passage of the Women’s Charter of 1961, a landmark piece of legislation that strengthened the legal rights, dignity and protection of women in Singapore. The legislation represented a significant step towards improving women’s status within society and continues to stand as an important milestone in Singapore’s journey towards gender equality.
Her inclusion in Portraits of Power also highlights the connections between women’s movements across borders. As South Africa observes Women’s Month and reflects on the thousands of women who marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria in 1956, the initiative underscores that the pursuit of gender equality is a shared global endeavour. The stories of women such as Ms. Chan Choy Soong demonstrate how determined leadership can create lasting change within communities and nations.
Through Portraits of Power, the CMMI calls on audiences to know, celebrate and share the stories of women who helped pave the way for future generations. By remembering their contributions and recognising the struggles they overcame, societies can continue to empower women to lead with courage, conviction and purpose. The message resonates with the enduring spirit of the 1956 Women’s March: “Wathint’ Abafazi, Wathint’ Imbokodo!” — “You strike a woman, you strike a rock!”
Source: South African High Commission in Singapore
