Joanne Yeoh of the YWCA KL has empowered young disadvantaged women from all walks of life through vocational training programs on par with the working world
How often do we wish to embark on a new phase in life, but unsure where to start? Take that uncertainty and step into the shoes of those in the underprivileged communities. Money, training and accessibility are just the basic hurdles magnified, that prevent them from a new lease in life. Over the past 20 years, the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA KL) has acted as a stepping stone – Its Vocational Training Opportunity Centre (VTOC) has trained and empowerred women from all backgrounds to confidently go out to the working world. Joanne Yeoh, the president of YWCA KL and member the VTOC board of governors, muses on how far the organisation has come and its ongoing collaboration with L’Oréal’s Beauty for a Better Life program.
What role do you play for YWCA KL?
As the president, I am accountable to the board of management and oversee the day to day running of the organisation. I act as the liaison to the board of management and communicate board decisions and plans to the staff. As its spokesperson, I continually find ways to raise the organisation’s profile. The YWCA KL has embarked on a 3-year transformation program and I oversee its implementation. The aim is to be "a vibrant community hub while adhering to YWCA global values providing for young women while servicing the local communities regardless of religion, race and social background.”
