She has been with the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) since 1993 is currently an assistant manager with the board. Amalgamated Union of Public Employees (AUPE) Assistant General Secretary Noorfarahin Ahmad, 45, is one of the many union leaders passionate about women and family issues. She also currently holds the position of vice-chair in the NTUC women’s committee.
NTUC This Week: What made you become a unionist?
Noorfarahin Ahmad: Initially, it wasn’t about the love and passion of union work. It all started when the STB branch wanted to look for some new young leaders. Apparently, they needed younger blood to take on leadership roles as the ones holding office then were quite senior in age. They opened the avenue for me to be part of the branch committee and AUPE identified me to become a representative in the NTUC’s youth committee. And when I reached the age of 35, I went to the NTUC women’s committee where I still am today. It’s been a fruitful journey I would say.
What are some of the challenges you see working women face today?
Time. Or the lack of. Women hold multi-faceted roles, not only as mothers or wives but they also hold responsibilities at work. I think working women need to allocate their time wisely. Many women I’ve met want to step out to work but due to their commitments at home, they don’t. I think this issue is critical.
What about the issue of women taking up leadership roles in Singapore?
I think women taking up leadership roles is something we are lacking. But I understand why as I go through this personally. We need to find a balance between time with our families and work. And on top of that, we have to find time to serve the community.
But opportunities and platforms should be given to women who believe they can step up in the Labour Movement. In my case, an avenue was set by the executive committee of AUPE. In my opinion, the top leadership of every union should create an avenue for women to come forward. If you were to look at the dynamics of the Labour Movement, there are more men taking up leadership roles than women. I also urge the unions to give these women who come forward a chance. They don’t have to be given major leadership roles right away, but they can be given minor ones instead and the unions can build them up from there.
For women who wish to take on leadership roles, grab the opportunity when it is given. As an individual, if they think that serving as a leader is their passion and want to contribute to society, they must come forward when an avenue is opened up for them. There’s no point if an opportunity is presented, and they don’t take it.
The reason why women leave work and do not take on leadership positions may be due to not being able to commit. What’s your take on that?
For a lot of women, the duty to family comes first. This isn’t a bad thing. As women, you need to look at what’s most important to you in your life before you can contribute to society or serve to better the lives of others. There must be a strong foundation at home, and family support is important. If the foundation at home isn’t strong, then how are you going to go out to contribute? This is something all women must keep in mind as they move forward.
