Cover From dominating the world of cricket to advocating roles for mature women in film, Ellice Ng, Susan Lankester and Winifred Duraisingam are paving the way for women to thrive in the most unexpected places (Photos: Natalina Zainal)
From dominating the world of cricket to advocating roles for mature women in film, Ellice Ng, Susan Lankester and Winifred Duraisingam are paving the way for women to thrive in the most unexpected places (Photos: Natalina Zainal)
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From dominating the world of cricket to advocating more roles for mature women in film, these ladies are paving the way for women to thrive in the most unexpected places
Acclaimed poet and activist Maya Angelou famously said once: “Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women.”
Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of sharing the stories of incredible women trailblazers who have both excelled in their chosen industries while sparking long overdue conversations about equality. While some have opened up about their trials and triumphs, many still toil behind-the-scenes with their achievements unseen or known only to a few. It’s time we changed that.
Now in its third year in Malaysia, The Front & Female Awards recognises groundbreaking women who are inspiring progress for women and girls and affecting change for other women through their work and lives.
In December 2024, we opened public nominations for the awards to seek out the individuals who fit this criteria, whether it be advocating for women’s rights or equity, closing gender gaps, driving the female agenda, or blazing a trail and breaking barriers for others to follow.
Presented in partnership with Sime Darby Property, BMW Malaysia, L’Oréal Paris, Lladro and Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, The Front & Female Awards ceremony will take place on March 20 in Kuala Lumpur, where we will announce the six winners from these inspiring nominees, identified with the help of our expert voting committee comprising some the most influential names in finance, sports, healthcare, arts, technology, and more in Malaysia.
Read more: Meet the incredible winners of Front & Female Awards Malaysia 2024
Three nominees were shortlisted for this year’s Innovation Award category—given to an individual driving progress for women and girls or advancing the female agenda in a particularly innovative way.
We spoke to these inspiring ladies ahead of the Awards to find out what motivates them and the most rewarding aspects of their work.
Ellice Ng
Above Ng is the CEO and co-founder of Orangeleaf Consulting
Ng is the CEO and co-founder of Orangeleaf Consulting
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Orphaned from a young age, Ellice Ng grew up with more struggles than most of us face in a lifetime—from abandonment and sexual abuse to harassment, homelessness and poverty. “These experiences, while incredibly painful, actually shaped me in profound ways,” Ng says. “Overcoming all this has not been easy. It took vulnerability, facing painful memories, and pushing myself way outside my comfort zone. There were times I was exhausted, other times I just wanted to quit. It was through these struggles that I discovered just how strong I really am inside. I looked for mentors who could guide me, not just in my career, but also in my personal life. I focused on getting better at what I do, seeing every setback as a chance to learn and grow.”
It was this guiding principle that led Ng, the CEO of low-code firm Orangeleaf Consulting, to launch the DoReMi app in 2024—aimed at transforming the lives of orphaned children and vulnerable communities by providing mentorship, sponsorship, adoption opportunities, counselling, job opportunities and more in this digital space.
Drawing from her own experience as an orphan, Ng champions mental well-being and stability for society’s most vulnerable group, making use of digital platforms to provide a space that connects these children with those who can help them, from mentors and wellness specialists to loving homes, prospective employers, and friends-to-be. A digital innovator, she also empowers youth through low-code training and entrepreneurship as Vice President of the Malaysian Young Entrepreneur Association.
Why is it important to you to empower women and girls through technology?
I truly believe that women are powerful, smart and multi-talented. However, as a woman in tech, I am aware of the challenges and barriers that many women in Malaysia still face, whether it is in the workplace, education and unfairness and discrimination within their communities.
I grew up as an orphan and I understand the challenges particularly for women from B40 households—challenges that can limit their opportunities and prevent them reaching their full potential. In Orangeleaf, I have hired women with zero technology backgrounds, yet who are now leading global clients’ projects. By creating career opportunities for non-tech members in the IT industry, I have empowered women to become even a greater agents of change. It’s about recognising their existing strength, and providing the tools and resources they need to flourish.
Who inspires you and why?
My mother, a cleaner who still rides her motorcycle to work each day, and my father, a photographer, instilled in me a profound truth: kindness isn’t a product of wealth, but a reflection of a good heart. It’s because of the second chance I was given to be accepted in a family rather be a homeless child, that I stand here today, committed to living a life of purpose and positive contribution.
What advice would you share with other women on becoming change-makers in their own right?
Own your power. Don’t wait for permission or validation to step into leadership, to speak up when its time for you to shine, or to pursue your vision. Never be afraid to stand up for self-respect and for your values.
Susan Lankester
Above Actress and producer Susan Lankester recently took home her second Asian Academy Creative Award for her acclaimed performance in ‘Raintown’
Actress and producer Susan Lankester recently took home her second Asian Academy Creative Award for her acclaimed performance in ‘Raintown’
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“We have so many heroines in our history books—like Blossom Wong, a former Special Branch Officer and Malaysia’s first female spy, or Emily Koshy, Malaysia’s first female police inspector. I’m sure women like that have loads of stories to tell, and to play one of them would be an absolute honour,” mused Susan Lankester in her March 2024 cover interview with Tatler Malaysia.
A trailblazing actress and producer, Lankester redefining the role of mature women in film. In 2024, she took home the honour of Best Actress at the 33rd Malaysia Film Festival and her second Asian Academy Creative Award for her acclaimed performance in Raintown, a female-led project with international recognition.
A vocal advocate against ageism and sexism in the entertainment industry, Lankester actively calls for safer, sustainable careers for women in film. “I dream of working with people outside of Malaysia to bring them back to this country to show what we have and what we are capable of,” she adds. “I want to open doors for other opportunities as well.” With a career spanning over four decades, Susan continues to push boundaries in her 60s’ and pave the way for future generations of women in entertainment.
What is the greatest challenge you have overcome?
Being relevant in an industry that rarely casts women over the age of 60.
Who inspires you and why?
My late mother, of course. Why? Watch Raintown. But besides her, I’m inspired by the women who are having to restart their lives—either due to a tragedy or a dismissal. Watching them work and fight daily to survive, the sacrifices made—makes me feel so hurt for them but so very proud of them simultaneously. The tenacity that’s inbuilt in our DNA. So powerful.
What are your philosophies about work and life?
Love both passionately.
Winifred Anne Duraisingam
Above Winifred Anne Duraisingam is captain of Malaysia’s National Women’s Cricket Team and full-time teacher
Winifred Anne Duraisingam is captain of Malaysia’s National Women’s Cricket Team and full-time teacher
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A professional cricket player, captain of Malaysia’s National Women’s Cricket Team and full-time teacher, Winifred Duraisingam has shattered stereotypes in a male-dominated sport, leading her team to the Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2024 in Sri Lanka and representing Malaysia against the world’s best.
Competing from the age of 10 years old and later representing Malaysia internationally at the SEA Games, the Fairbreak Invitational and other tournaments, Winifred distinguished herself in this sport under the guidance of her late uncle and coach, David Mahadevan. Recently, she took on a match official role at the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025, inspiring the next generation of female cricketers. From playing street cricket as a child to elevating Malaysia’s women’s team to the global stage, Winifred is proving that women belong in the highest levels of the game.
Who inspires you and why?
My passion for cricket was sparked by my late uncle, who introduced me to the game. His inspiration led me to pursue this sport, and my family's unwavering support has been instrumental in my journey.
What impact do you want to make in the next five years?
In my cricket career, my ultimate goal is to play in the World Cup. Professionally, I aspire to start coaching cricket and build a cricket team.
What advice would you share with other women on becoming change-makers in their own right?
Never give up on what you are doing. Always strive to achieve your targets and goals. Working smart is the key to success.
Be sure to check out the other nominees shortlisted for the Front & Female Awards 2025:
- The trailblazers championing women’s health and well-being
- The inspiring young leaders under 30 who are fighting for a better Malaysia for women
- The female founders elevating women and girls in Malaysia
- The leaders championing women’s professional development in business, politics and more
- The inspiring change-makers championing women’s equality and rights
Credits
Photography: Natalina Zainal
Make-Up: Joey Yap and Ler Wan Ning
Hair: Nicole Ng and Angeline Low
Creative Direction: Noemy Zainal
Topics
Previously contributing to Esquire Malaysia, Expat Lifestyle and Newsweek, Tania oversees digital stories across Tatler’s key content pillars, also leading the Front & Female platform exploring issues and topics affecting women today.
