This Mother’s Day, we’re celebrating women who glow from within — balancing careers, passions, and motherhood with grace, strength, and purpose. We spoke to a few inspiring mothers across industries who are not only building impactful careers, but also redefining what it means to lead and nurture. Here’s a look into their journeys.

Grace Tan  | Crafting Purposeful Connections

Storytelling runs deep for Grace Tan, an ICF-certified coach, lifestyle photographer, and creative entrepreneur. Through her work at Stories Sdn Bhd, Grace captures human emotions with authenticity — from photographing families to working with global organisations like UNICEF and Disney. As a coach, she empowers women to live purposefully and connect to their authentic selves.

On motherhood and personal growth:
Motherhood revealed to Grace that raising children isn’t just about teaching values — it’s about constant growth, empathy, and emotional resilience. "I had to learn how to manage my emotions and creatively adapt my parenting when things didn’t go as planned."

On nurturing herself:
Grace carves out "me-time" after sending her children to school, filling it with small rituals like journaling, praying, or simply enjoying music. She also cherishes moments of connection with friends — a gentle anchor amidst life's demands.

Advice to other mums:
Rather than chasing perfect balance, Grace suggests, "Be fully present with whatever you are doing — whether it’s work or family. Fulfilment comes when you cherish each moment fully."

When she feels most like herself:
"I am truly present, listening and connecting emotionally with the person in front of me."

Shan Szetho | Capturing Stories That Matter

For Shan Szetho, storytelling has always been a calling. As a partner, film producer, and director at Stories, Shan channels her creativity into capturing real moments — from family milestones to campaigns like Malaysia’s first inclusive playground for UNICEF and autism awareness initiatives. Her work is driven by a desire to spotlight stories that truly matter.

On motherhood and self-growth:
Motherhood taught Shan two powerful lessons: patience, and how to love children unconditionally. "I learned that mothers have a superpower to go on even when we are exhausted!" she shares.

On self-care:
Amidst busy days, Shan finds small pockets of time to recharge. Whether it’s coffee with a friend or a quiet walk in nature, these moments allow her to recentre herself — a simple, gentle reminder that self-care matters too.

Advice to other mums:
"Finding balance is never easy," Shan reminds us. "Work and chores will always be there. It’s important to dedicate meaningful time to flourishing your relationship with your family."

When she feels most like herself:
"I feel most like myself when I am spending time with my family and capturing unforgettable moments with them."

Sofea Mastan | Building Communities from the Heart

For PR strategist and community builder Sofea Mastan, motherhood and purpose are beautifully intertwined. Through her platform Grow and Glow Mama, she champions maternal mental health and helps brands tell their stories with authenticity and impact.

On motherhood and perspective:
Motherhood reshaped Sofea’s definition of strength. "It’s showing up, even on hard days. It’s embracing the messy middle and honouring growth — mine and my children’s," she reflects.

On self-care:
Sofea believes in the power of small rituals. A quiet cup of coffee, a few pages of a book, or saying “no” when necessary — these acts of self-preservation allow her to pour back into others meaningfully.

Advice to other mums:
"You don’t have to do it all to be enough," she says. "Take it one moment at a time. You’re human — and that’s more than enough."

When she feels most like herself:
"When I’m creating something from the heart, or simply laughing freely with my daughters."

Marissa Parry | Redefining Strength and Wellness

Marissa Parry is a Health & Lifestyle Coach on a mission to support women through all seasons of life. Whether through coaching or teaching capoeira, she champions strength, wellness, and building supportive communities.

On motherhood and resilience:
Motherhood revealed a deeper well of patience and resilience for Marissa. "I don't get caught up in little things anymore. I focus on what really matters — connection, authenticity, and strength."

On maintaining balance:
Marissa keeps her cup full with non-negotiables: daily movement, sleep, and time with loved ones. "Movement keeps me strong — and yes, I’m determined to still carry my teenage kids!"

Advice to other mums:
"You’ll never finish the entire to-do list. Instead, choose one thing each day that truly matters — and let that be your win."

When she feels most like herself:
"After moving my body, getting a proper night’s sleep, and sharing a laugh with people I love."

Adlina Nadirah | Empowering Confidence Through Simplicity

As the founder of Velvet Vanity, Adlina Nadirah is passionate about making beauty simple, effective, and confidence-boosting. Her brand focuses on fuss-free makeup and skincare hybrids — inspired by her belief that less can be more, in both beauty and life.

On motherhood and resilience:
Motherhood taught Adlina her true strength — and the importance of grace. "Personally, it’s made me more patient and present. Professionally, it reminded me that slowing down doesn’t mean falling behind — sometimes, it means moving forward with more intention."

On self-care:
For Adlina, self-care is found in everyday moments: a quiet Netflix binge, a swipe of lipstick, a guilt-free “no.” "Small pockets of time, even just 10 minutes, help me show up better for the people I love."

Advice to other mums:
"Give yourself permission to not have it all figured out. Some days will feel like a mess — and that’s okay."

When she feels most like herself:
 "When I’m in my creative zone, dreaming up new ideas, or simply being present with my little one."

Nina Karina Azman |  Finding Purpose in Hospitality and Motherhood

Nina Karina Azman is the Chief Executive Officer of Holiday Villa Hotels & Resorts. Hospitality has been part of her life since childhood, shaping a career focused on creating spaces where people feel at home. Her passion lies in the everyday magic of bringing comfort, connection, and joy to those passing through.

What motherhood taught her:
Motherhood shifted Nina’s view of success — teaching her the power of presence, patience, and how fleeting yet precious time can be. It deepened her sense of purpose, both personally and professionally.

How she cares for herself:
Self-care may not always come easy, but Nina finds her moments — like playing golf, reconnecting with herself, and making space for the simple joys that help her recharge.

Her advice for other mums:
“Learn to love yourself every single day. Build your own foundations of strength — and choose partners and people who lift you higher.”

When she feels most like herself:
Nina feels most like herself when she’s soaking up simple moments with her son, or out on the golf course surrounded by good friends and laughter.

A Glow That Comes From Within

Motherhood isn’t about perfection — it’s about presence, growth, and leading with heart. Through every season of change, these Glow Getter Mothers remind us that the most radiant glow is one nurtured from within — one moment, one connection, and one breath at a time.