On this Mother’s Day, we want to take some time out to celebrate all the amazing mothers around the world. It is no secret that most women assume multiple roles once stepping into motherhood and still manage to get things done as they exhibit excellence at work and home.

Today, we were granted an opportunity of speaking to some of our new and experienced mothers at Good Job Creations, empathise with their struggles, share their joy and see how a company is able to play the role of supporting working mothers. Here are their stories:

1. How long have you been a working mom? What have been the most significant struggles you had and the greatest joys?

Kelly Ng, Accounts Assistant

I’ve been a working mom for nearly 10 years. One of the most significant struggles of being so is having to balance between work and family responsibilities, especially when I am my children’s main caregiver. Most of the time, I’m plagued with guilt of missing out on so many moments of my child’s growth and I constantly worry about their well-being when I’m not with them in person.  At the same time, my children are also my biggest motivators—from the questions they ask to the ringing sounds of their laughter, these little ones remind me to appreciate the little things in life and always to be the best version of myself.

Slaine Wong, Senior Recruitment Consultant

I’ve been a working mom for over three years now. I remember struggling greatly during the initial stages of breastfeeding, and I had to do it day and night. Due to a low supply, I was unable to provide enough milk for my son. I was also battling mild depression back then and was unable to get enough rest daily. But yet, my greatest joy is watching my son grow stronger and learn new things each day. He’s never failed to surprise me with his pure love.

Denise Tay, Principal Recruitment Consultant

I’ve been a working mother for 2.5 years now. I experienced the darkest period of my life when my son had to spend his first month since birth in the hospital. When he was fit to come home, I felt so miserable having to choose between work and my child and on top of that, I struggled to find time and space even for a short breather, and I now understand that being a mother is a full-time job. My heart is so full when I look back and see how much my son has grown since. My simplest joys can be found when I have my son run to me after I get home from a long day of work. I also find myself catching the earliest bus and train just so I can maximise the time I have with him. There’s nothing I’d trade for my journey as a mother, my son is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.

“There’s nothing I’d trade for my journey as a mother; my son is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

Elaine Lim, Manager

I have been a working mom for close to 15 years! Even after all these years, it’s still rather challenging juggling between being a working mom and managing my family. One of the struggles I remember vividly was when my daughter took PSLE (primary school leaving examination). I wanted to be able to support her in person, whether in her studies or emotionally—I wanted to be there for her. Thankfully, my boss and a fellow parent understood my needs and allowed me to work from home for a period.

One of my greatest joys was when my daughter did well in her PSLE! It was challenging for her due to the change from learning in the classroom to home-based during the pandemic, and I was glad that I could be by her side when she needed me the most.

Voon Jie Ying, Team Lead

I’ve been a working mother of two for six years and struggled greatly back when the Covid-19 pandemic hit worldwide. What used to be my usual routine (travelling back and forth between Singapore and my hometown, Malaysia) was put to a halt due to movement restrictions, and I was unable to see my children for three whole months.

However, I was overjoyed when the company granted me the opportunity to work whilst in Malaysia. This alone allowed me to spend time with my kids for an extended period.

2. In your opinion, what type of support is valuable to all working moms, be it from your family or the company?

Mai Koyama, Business Development Executive

I was born and raised in Japan, and I’m currently working in Singapore. When a company offers flexible working locations, it could do wonders. As a foreigner residing in another country, this greatly benefits me. The opportunity would allow my kids to spend time learning about their culture and identities in Japan.

It’s great when companies host family-friendly events for working parents. Though the little ones might not understand what’s happening, having them around us allows them to feel close and involved in our lives.

Jasvin Kaur, Senior Recruitment Consultant

For myself, having a company that sympathises with working parents and provides the flexibility of working from home so that you can look after your child brings about a great impact. That way, we can be involved in our child’s lives as much as possible. This is a huge advantage for me because when my company does this for me, it shows that they value me as an employee, and in return, I give them my full loyalty.

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To all mothers out there, you are amazing.

Sending our love to all mothers out there and wishing you a Happy Mother’s Day!

Here is our article to find out a father’s love version.

This interview was edited and rewritten for clarity by Destiny Goh, Marketing Communications Executive.