My mantra is: “Get UP, Dress UP and Show UP.”

I've grappled with despair and negative thoughts firsthand, yet I firmly believe that simply showing up opens the door to something truly magical. This ethos forms the bedrock of GalUP SG's philosophy: growth, positivity, and resilience, seasoned with laughter to ease the burdens of life.

Let me share with you a little about my journey.

Like many women in this region, my upbringing in a family of 9 in a Singaporean village couldn't have foreseen where I am today. Despite humble beginnings, I learned early on the values of hard work and simplicity, instilled by my family.

At 16, I entered the world of modelling, facing many rejections and learning resilience and the acceptance of not fitting in.

For 30 years, I've been a prominent figure in Singapore's fitness scene. I've trained everyone from royals to everyday individuals and left my mark globally, including creating 16 fitness spaces for Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts and homes.

Yet, my journey doesn't stop there. In 2017, I served as the Technical Director of Fitness Best Asia Awards, where I united fitness enthusiasts across Asia and promoted holistic well-being. Beyond fitness, my commitment to the community led me to create PLAYtopia SG, an indoor playground for children's learning. I also initiated the 12 BE project, based on moral values, and A.D.A.T (A Day @ A Time), wellness outreach programs for Our Tampines Hub.

My ethos revolves around giving back and helping others live their best lives. It's not just about fitness and nutrition; it's about achieving balance in mind, body and spirit. This led to the launch of Aqieve and the creation of the TV show LIFE by Laila, which focused on Asian wellness traditions, rituals and customs. Being recognized as Asia's Woman Leader in 2023 and later as a Global Woman Leader in 2024 is incredibly humbling. With each accolade, I feel a renewed sense of purpose to uplift women worldwide through projects like LIFT, a workout for women, and GalUP SG, embodying my lifelong philosophy of movement and self-empowerment. Thanks to my fearlessness, passion and resilience, I've made a household name for myself in both career and life.

GalUP SG is a sanctuary crafted exclusively for women like us. Here, we gather to share openly, support one another and navigate life's hurdles with unwavering positivity & honesty. Our goal is clear: to equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to unleash your inner strength and voice, enabling you to blossom into your fullest potential.

This endeavour holds profound personal significance. Throughout my career, I've been blessed with support and opportunities from believers in my journey. It's this sense of gratitude that compels me to pay it forward, sharing my own experiences, including navigating what some might term a 'failed' marriage.

In 2023, alongside my ex-husband's current wife, Maxine Deveraux (yes, you read that right!), we birthed GalUP SG. It's been a labour of love, culminating in our official launch on March 8, 2024, in homage to International Women’s Day.

Having weathered relationship storms, I assure you there's hope. Through self-empowerment, you can weather any hurricane. GalUP SG stands as a beacon, offering solace to women of all backgrounds. Whether grappling with mental well-being or seeking camaraderie, we're here to support you! From our curated events to hybrid podcasts and forums, we're dedicated to addressing your concerns and fostering self-empowerment.

If you’re ready to embark on this transformative journey, I extend a warm invitation to join GalUP SG. Together, let's ascend above life's trials and embrace a future adorned with strength, unity, and camaraderie. Life's too short, Get UP, Dress UP, and Show UP with us as we embark on this exhilarating adventure call LIFE!

Guided by my mantra: Pray, Pursue, and Proceed, I navigate life’s challenges with faith, determination, and action, transforming visions into realities and inspiring others along the journey.

In a world where society readily celebrates individualism, angst and toxicity, kindness and love are rare glimmers.

We don’t exist for ourselves and it is a daily reminder to choose to be kind and to love and to do our best by those choices.

Respect and kindness cost very little, but can make a huge difference. One of my favourite quotes is this:

“I shall pass this way but once; any good that I can do or any kindness I can show to any human being; let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”

I'm far from perfect, but I'm genuinely trying my best to be a better person. Let's all try to help each other along on this crazy journey.

Life throws curveballs, but challenges don't have to break us. They can be stepping stones. As my favorite quote says, "behind every problem lies a wonderful thing waiting to happen." Let's open our eyes and discover what's next.

Problem has a silver lining. Stay patient, stay open-minded, and watch how challenges turn into victories.