WE-Empower is a Think–Do–Tank working to future-ready Bumantara (Southeast Asia) by bridging a simple gap between global professionals and grassroots enterprises.
These enterprises, many of them MSMEs, carry livelihoods and employ the majority of the workforce, yet many lack access to practical strategic support and trusted networks. At the same time, many accomplished professionals want meaningful contribution and real growth, but lack a credible pathway to contribute.
We call our approach We-driven Entrepreneurship: entrepreneurship as stewardship, where growth strengthens employees, suppliers, and communities, not only owners.
Our flagship program is the EMAS Exchange Fellowship, pairing Enterprise Builders with Support Partners for 3–6 month engagements so both grow through real collaboration.
In Practice
WE-Empower Helps by
Curating and matching partner pairings for fit and readiness
Holding a simple rhythm so the work stays practical and grounded
Convening mentors and partners when needed to support the pairing
Where we work: Across Southeast Asia, what we call Bumantara, the land in between.
Short Timeline
Brief History
2023
WE-Empower was launched in 2023 with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam (now President of Singapore) as Guest-of-Honour.
2026
EMAS Exchange Fellowship pilot cohort
Core
Team
Leng Leroy Lim
Chief Convener & Catalyst
25 years as leadership coach and organizational consultant. Princeton, Harvard Divinity, Harvard Business School. Ordained Episcopal priest. Based in Bali, creating pathways for Southeast Asia’s diaspora to re-engage with the region.
Denny Halim
Head of Program
Program partner and development strategist. Co-founder of Empatika. Led 50+ programs across Asia and Africa with UNICEF, UNDP, ADB, and World Bank.
Shih Choon Fong
Advisor
University Professor at NUS. Former President of NUS (2000–2008) and Founding President of KAUST. Harvard PhD. French Legion d’Honneur and Harvard Centennial Medal recipient.
Chew Kheng Chuan
Advisor
One of Asia’s most accomplished fundraisers in private philanthropy. Former VP Endowment at NUS, Chief Advancement Officer at NTU. Harvard College, London School of Economics.
Leon Toh
Advisor
Founder & Executive Director of Damson Capital, an impact investment firm backing early-stage entrepreneurs in Asia. Former Accenture consultant. McCain Institute Global Advisory Council member.
