Penang grassroots network marks 20 years of connections and collaboration, with vision to expand to Kuala Lumpur
TWENTY years ago, it was a just a little dream shared by two women in a cosy little bookshop.
That seed has since blossomed into a high-energy celebration, marking two decades of empowering women entrepreneurs in Penang.
The “Wings of Legacy – 20 Years of Transformation” luncheon in Penang is not just a look-back but also a bold proclamation of where WomenBizSense intends to go.
The event was attended by Tan Lean Kee, wife of Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
In her keynote address, Tan praised the organisation for its pivotal role in the state’s economic and social landscape.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to WomenBizSense on 20 years of connecting and empowering women entrepreneurs in Penang.
“Over the past two decades, the organisation has played an important role in bringing women entrepreneurs together and creating opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, collaboration and growth,” she said.
Tan said the organisation’s contribution extended far beyond commerce, aligning seamlessly with the aspirations of the Penang2030 vision for inclusive growth and a high quality of life.
“You have contributed not only to women empowerment, but also to the economy of Penang by encouraging women to participate actively in entrepreneurship,” she said.
“True empowerment is not only about business success but also about using our success, networks and resources to make a difference in the lives of others,” she added.
This message of community and common purpose set the tone for WomenBizSense founders Datin Josephine Yoong and Krista Goon who started the journey in 2006.
Yoong shared how it all started, “Twenty years ago, it was simply a conversation between two women in my little bookshop.
“A conversation about our desire to create a little network where women entrepreneurs could encourage one another, share ideas and grow together,” she said.
Goon echoed the pride and gratitude while outlining the next and even more ambitious chapter.
“I am so grateful that so many of you here believed in the idea that we had back in 2006.
“While legacy is often about the past, legacy is also about the future.
“Our dream and our legacy for the next 20 years is to grow WomenBizSense beyond our borders by strengthening our presence in Kuala Lumpur, bringing our special kind of Penang energy,” she said.
Goon also spoke of their vision of setting up a physical hub and a regional network called WismaWomenBizSense.
“We want to create a stronger network of Asian sisters by sharing knowledge, opening doors, creating opportunities and championing one another across borders, and also mapping a vision for a larger voice that reaches across South-East Asia and beyond,” she elaborated.
Also present were WomenBizSense chairperson Mily Goh and former state executive councillor Datuk Seri Chong Eng together with more than 100 women.
