BAZAAR’s league of extraordinary women this year features individuals and teams who took a long, hard look at the needs of our communities and stepped up to the challenge.

As Covid-19 forced everyone indoors, ex-Straits Times photographer Bryan van der Beek and journalist Serene Goh found themselves outside, volunteering on late-night food drops and essential hand-outs for migrant workers, witnessing firsthand how Singaporeans banded together for a greater good.

In the decade that she’s been at the helm of Aware, former lawyer Corinna Lim has spearheaded numerous projects and campaigns – from helping single parents to victims of sexual assault – that have led to positive changes in the community.

While some parents still gun for branded schools, here’s what you should really look out for when choosing the best primary school for your child.

Helping out at an orphanage or rebuilding the walls of a local school while on holiday seems like a pretty noble thing to do.

Many Singapore parents still prefer popular elite schools, but there are more important factors you should consider before Primary 1 registration fever hits. EVELINE GAN runs you through the checklist.

Wanting to make a difference isn’t easy, especially if you’re already juggling a career and a busy social life. But there are still ways you can help those in need. Here’s how three women make it work.

RHONDA WONG GAVE UP HER JET-SET LIFE TO COMMIT TO A CAUSE:

In light of International Volunteer Day on Dec 5, we look at how volunteering doesn’t just benefit others but boosts your health and well-being, too.

It’s a proven fact that acts of charity are linked to feelings of happiness. So if you’ve considered doing volunteer work but never got around to it, now’s a good time to start. Hear it from three women who took the time out to make a difference.

Voluntourism is an appealingly altruistic way to travel but you need to think carefully about your motives and those of the host organisation before selecting a project.

The struggle is real as a 20-something. Every day, we’re faced with choices that seem like they’d set the course for the rest of our lives. Daunting? You bet. But this decade isn’t as scary as it sounds. Hear it from three young women who’ve made a big commitment and lived to tell the tale.