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DMK x IWD25: Women Accelerating Creativity for International Women's Day 2025

March 2025

Shop product featured:  Natalie Platform Heel Sandals

As DMK celebrates 25 years of empowering women, we honor the trailblazing women we've featured in the past who have fearlessly charted their own paths, nurtured their growth, and continue to accelerate their careers. In the spirit of International Women’s Day 2025, we reflect on the essence of self-love, identity, and perseverance. These remarkable creatives share their insights on how to truly empower oneself and others, with confidence and authenticity.

Hailey Teo Xian Wen (@capyhailey)

Content Creator

The Power of Self-Confidence

For Hailey, looking good isn’t just about style — it’s about self-care from the inside out. It’s not just about external achievements but about believing in ourselves, owning our strengths, and stepping boldly into our aspirations. When women feel good inside and out, they radiate confidence, break barriers, and accelerate their careers on their own terms.

"Feeling good comes from within.  It’s about knowing your identity and self-worth, and being confident in your capabilities."

— Hailey Teo Xian Wen

Kaci Beh (@kacibeh)

Model and Content Creator

Redefining Standards

Kaci’s unconventional path in modeling, from facing exclusion due to her tattoos to thriving in an evolving industry, reflects the power of perseverance and authenticity. Initially, her tattoos limited opportunities, but with time and societal shifts — driven by visibility and representation — she found her place. 

 

Her story is a testament that inclusion starts with action — by embracing diversity, challenging outdated norms, and empowering the next generation to break barriers.

"Whatever your dream may be  —  whether it’s modeling, starting a business, or taking an unconventional path — embrace it with an open mind and heart.  When you are young, try everything to learn what you like and do not like. That way, you will know if it is the right path for you."

— Kaci Beh

Mavis Zhang (@maviszhanggg)

Model, Lawyer, and Content Creator

Owning Her Power

As a litigation trainee lawyer, model, and content creator, Mavis has pursued multiple passions, proving that women don’t have to fit into a single mold. Her story challenges the notion that success is linear — she thrives in two seemingly different industries, embracing both structure and creativity. Yet, balancing these demanding careers has been a journey of self-discipline and resilience. 

 

Her story serves as a powerful reminder that women can create their own definitions of success, embracing every facet of who they are along the way.

"You have to let go of the self-limiting beliefs that tell you cannot achieve your goals.  You can do anything you set your mind to  —  the key is to start and keep going.  Perseverance will reward those who do not give up."

— Mavis Zhang

Esther Low (@3st.herrr)

Content Creator

Redefining Self-Love

In an industry that often amplifies unrealistic standards, Esther initially struggled with how others perceived her work. The pressure to conform led to self-comparison and doubt — a challenge many women face. However, she realized that self-love isn’t about flawlessness. Instead, it’s about embracing imperfections and still recognizing one’s worth. 

 

Her story serves as a reminder that empowerment begins with self-forgiveness. By letting go of unrealistic expectations and embracing growth, women can step into their power without fear of judgment.

"Self-love is not about achieving perfection; it is about embracing our flaws while recognising our inherent worth.  It is about acknowledging our mistakes and giving ourselves the space to heal."

— Esther Low

Charmaine Li (@charmainelwj)

Dog Mum and Content Creator

Heart and Hustle

For Charmaine, looking and feeling good means embracing confidence not only in her outward appearance but in her relationship with herself. This holistic approach to beauty and wellness — where inner peace and self-acceptance are just as important as external beauty — has shaped Charmaine into the empowering woman she is today. 

 

Her story encourages women to continue embracing their own journeys with confidence, resilience, and unwavering self-belief. 

"Looking and feeling good comes from being confident in both your outlook on life and your inner self. Having the willpower to accomplish your goals, along with supportive company, will help you succeed in the long run."

— Charmaine Li

Saranya Chyenne (@saranyachyenne_)

Educator and Content Creator

Strength in Self-Compassion

Saranya’s journey reflects the importance of self-love and self-compassion in overcoming life’s challenges. Her emphasis on being comfortable in her own skin, accepting her flaws, and learning to embrace confidence, regardless of external opinions, mirrors the action needed to accelerate progress for women. 

 

Saranya’s journey underscores that when women take action to nurture themselves, they become more equipped to contribute to the greater goal of social progress.

"Love yourself for who you are and what you do. Accept your emotions, knowing that you are strong enough to overcome your challenges. It is okay to take your time, but never give up on yourself.  Remember, you have the power to make yourself happy."

— Saranya Chyenne

Eileen Mak (@eileenmak)

Breast Cancer Survivor and Advocate

From Struggles to Strength

In the face of personal and professional challenges, Eileen Mak has found strength through self-love, self-compassion, and a deep commitment to mental wellness. As a content creator, Eileen uses her platform to advocate for body inclusivity and to share her experiences with body image struggles. She promotes the idea that well-being and mental wellness come from within — not from fitting a certain mold. 

 

Through her actions, Eileen contributes to the collective fight for gender equality by showing women that their worth isn’t defined by appearance or engagement numbers, but by their authenticity.

"Self-love is always a work in progress. I can be my own harshest critic — whether at work or during periods of weight gain - and I sometimes doubt myself.  But remember to be kind to yourself, because if not you, then who else?"

— Eileen Mak

Ann Lopez (@annavanticalopez)

Pet Mum, Social Marketing Manager and Content Creator

Defining Womanhood in Her Own Way

 As a social media manager, content creator, and devoted pet mom, Ann embodies the modern woman who navigates multiple responsibilities while staying true to her values of compassion, discipline, and self-care. Her journey as a pet mom reflects the nurturing essence of motherhood in all its forms — showcasing love, patience, and deep emotional connection. 

 

Just as IWD 2025 honors the different ways women impact and shape the world, Ann’s story highlights how care and devotion extend beyond traditional roles, reminding us that empowerment can be found in the love we give, the lessons we learn, and the bonds we build.

"No matter who we become or what we accomplish, we carry the essence of that simpler, earlier version of ourselves.  If I could offer any advice, it would be this: never lose your self-identity, as it is the core of who you are."

— Ann Lopez

Closing Words

As DMK celebrates 25 years of empowering women, these inspiring stories serve as powerful reminders of what it means to take charge of our own narratives. Whether through confidence, resilience, or self-love, women continue to redefine success, break barriers, and inspire future generations. 

 

This International Women’s Day, let’s honor the women who accelerate their careers while staying true to themselves — because empowered women empower the world.

Happy International Women's Month! 

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