From social impact to Earth-friendly initiatives, these entrepreneurs are charging ahead in society and making a difference.
Entrepreneurship is more than just running a business – that’s why we’re spotlighting those who are making a real difference in the world. Whether it’s championing mental health, pushing for social change, or driving eco-conscious initiatives, they show that business can be a force for good. Read on to find out more about entrepreneurs who are building meaningful and sustainable brands.
Entrepreneurs making a difference in Singapore
1. Sophie Leung, somatic trauma informed coach
As an award-winning somatic trauma informed wellness coaching practice, we empower individuals and organisations to elevate their mental well-being. We help professionals with self-sabotaging behaviours that block them from their success, guiding them to process their emotions and reconnect their core selves, fostering calmness, clarity, and confidence.
We also help organisations integrate trauma informed approaches in their systems and processes to build work cultures conducive to the development of personal and professional growth based on authentic connections and collaborations. The importance of mental health is on the rise and we’re here to break the stigma to create a better future.
2. Louisa Lee, managing director of DP Dental
At DP Dental, we’re revolutionising dental care by highlighting the link between oral health and overall well-being. We introduced a four-day workweek during Covid-19, boosting employee morale and setting a new standard in Singapore for work-life balance. Our commitment to sustainability earned us the B Corp Certification, making us the first B Corp-certified dental practice in Asia.
By reducing our carbon footprint and material waste, we’re making a positive impact on the environment. We’re dedicated to creating a healthier, happier world for our employees and our community.
3. Angelica Handover, co-founder of Opilot
Opilot aims to push for innovation within the local AI sector. We built infrastructure that allows AI to be run without the internet. We’re able to run a range of AI models for different languages and cultures, while also running on lower configurations of laptops. We’ve made it possible to use AI offline and be processed completely on-device, eliminating the need for data centres for processing power.
With communities using our infrastructure, we enable increased social impact, such as easier access to education in rural areas, and reduce the reliance on energy-guzzling data centres.
4. Adelphia Lim, founder of For The Love of Socials
For The Love of Socials specialises in social media for health and wellness brands, with strategies that amplify well-being, mindfulness, and holistic health messages to support businesses that prioritise physical and mental health. We leverage creative content and strategic partnerships to raise awareness, promote healthier lifestyles, and support the growth of brands committed to enhancing the well-being of Singaporeans.
5. Helena Gilmour, founder of The Place
Boutique jewellery brand The Place celebrates your memories of the places you love. When it comes to giving back, we benefit communities in the places we’re celebrating. Every bracelet we sell supports community projects in the country it represents. When you purchase a Singapore map bracelet, you’re contributing to initiatives in Singapore. This innovative approach ensures that each piece of jewellery captures memories and fosters direct, meaningful change in the places we love.
6. Eileen Tan, founder and educator at Spacing
Transitioning from educator to entrepreneur, my goal is to transform the educational mindset. Enrichment classes should support students in enjoying learning and finding purpose in it. At Spacing, we build a strong literacy foundation through creative expression, connecting learning to real life. We use a multi-sensory approach to ensure positive outcomes and support long-term academic success and lifelong learning.
7. Puja Surtani, director of Kay Ess Enterprise
As a second-generation owner in a small business, the changes we make at Eastern Scent often aren’t the sexy ones that sound great in marketing. However, small changes add up. We’ve switched to business systems that allow us to use less paper, replaced disposables and single-use plastic from our pantry, and used individual cooling units in our office. We’re looking to implement other changes this year, particularly with suitable eco-friendly options for the packaging of our online orders.
8. Biek Speijk, founder of Biekaleidoscope, artist and wardrobe curator
Biekaleidoscope is all about making conscious choices: less, but better. It’s about fashion, consumerism, and quality. For example, my Moon Milk is a paper collage made from skin tones or fabric structures – and it’s all unique or limited editions, just like you! Textile paintings are custom-made from clothing memories – either from yourself, your child, or a deceased loved one.
9. Audrey Yang, business sustainability consultant at Thought Partner Eco
Thought Partner Eco, a sustainability consultancy for SMEs, offers consultations to business leaders on environmental topics and specialises in supporting creative agencies to understand topics like sustainable web design and greenwashing. We provide brief vetting services to help agencies avoid greenwashing and inspire clients to incorporate sustainability in future briefs. We also run workshops to help businesses set sustainability goals and create a roadmap for change.
Audrey is also an experienced speaker and panellist on corporate and individual sustainability. Her work inspires action and creates long-lasting positive social and environmental impact.
10. Katerina Sholkovskaya, director of Katruss
Katruss is a Singapore-based fashion start-up crafting sleepwear and loungewear in eco-friendly garments. Each piece features premium plant-based fabrics, woven with natural fibres from rose, aloe vera, and more. By using innovative, natural materials and supporting local artisan craftsmanship, we’re making a tangible difference in the fashion industry.
11. Michelle Chan, founder of Miseico
At Miseico, we champion clean, non-toxic plant-based formulations. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. From sourcing sustainable natural ingredients to production in our Singapore lab and packaging with recyclable glass and post-consumer materials, we prioritise eco-friendly practices. Our multifunctional, low-waste products enhance your beauty and wellness routine while reducing overall consumption and fostering a positive ecological footprint. For every product sold, we plant a tree, reflecting our dedication to personal and planetary health.
12. Susan Calderon Urbina, founder of Sacha Botanicals
At Sacha Botanicals, we’re shaking up hair care with our plant-based handmade solid shampoos inspired by the Amazon. Unlike traditional liquid shampoos that often come in plastic bottles, we craft our solid shampoos with natural ingredients like vegan protein, luxurious butter, oils, and botanicals. Not only do they eliminate plastic waste – each bar replaces two to three bottles of shampoo – but they also offer health benefits by being free of parabens, sulfates, and silicons.
13. Amrita Dhillon, founder and chief baker at Amrita’s Artisan Bakeology
Amrita’s Artisan Bakeology is more than just a cake brand; it’s a testament to resilience and the power of dreams. Inspired by my mother, a single mum, I’ve made it my mission to give back to society. Through volunteer efforts and collaborations, I strive to empower others, particularly women navigating similar paths.
One of my most rewarding experiences has been mentoring Natasha, a single mum of three, through Her Rise Above. Guiding her towards financial independence by starting her home bakery reminds me of my mother’s strength.
14. Sherlyn Chen, founder and CEO of Carer
Carer relieves caregiver burden and improves seniors’ quality of life through personalised care services that empower them to age with dignity. Besides reliable home care and medical escort services, we have an activity club for seniors where we engage them in various activities like cooking, baking, crafts, exercises, outings, and more.
These entrepreneurs aren’t just about making profits – they’re making a difference in the world and we’re so here for it.
