Meet Lee Hui Li, a mentor with the Her World Mentorship Programme

Being a woman in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) can often mean being the lone female voice in meetings, or the unintentional target of unconscious biases. For the second year of our Her World Mentorship Programme, we want to empower young women by providing them the tools, guidance, and support needed to break down these barriers and overcome limiting beliefs.

Nine exceptional mentors – each with a wealth of experience and expertise – tell us why they are passionate about giving back and share the wisdom they’ve gleaned throughout their careers. 

Meet Lee Hui Li, managing director of Microsoft Singapore

With 25 years of experience in the industry, Lee Hui Li has a deep understanding of the ins and outs of the tech world. Now the managing director for Microsoft Singapore, she has held leadership positions at the likes of IBM, Dell, Ernst & Young, and more.

She shares: “My background is not the most traditional for someone in tech as I was an Economics graduate, not IT. However, this has become the most exciting and fulfilling career journey for me. Technology is constantly evolving, always presenting new opportunities to learn and explore. That’s what truly energises me as we drive innovation for value creation, and solve complex real world problems with technology.”

Perhaps this is a result of her belief in taking risks, a piece of advice she wished she had learnt earlier on.

She adds: “This means viewing challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, rather than as obstacles. It’s about being open to feedback, willing to take risks, and persistent in the face of setbacks. Cultivating this mindset can lead to greater adaptability, resilience, and ultimately, success in your career journey.”

Given your own industry experience, what emerging trends and in-demand skills are necessary in STEM?

Given your own industry experience, what emerging trends and in-demand skills are necessary in STEM?

According to Microsoft and Linkedin’s latest Work Trend Index report, leaders have already begun to acquire technical AI talent, with hiring increasing by 323 per cent in the past eight years. In Singapore, 71 per cent of leaders say they wouldn’t hire someone without AI skills, while 77 per cent say they’d rather hire a less experienced candidate with AI skills than a more experienced candidate without them. Clearly, regardless of one’s gender or position, AI skills are currently highly valued by employers.

How can one future-proof their career?

To future-proof their career, women should stay attuned to emerging technologies such as AI, while developing both their technical and soft skills.

However, harnessing the benefits of AI requires a fundamental change in how we approach work. This entails exploring, undergoing training for and gaining experience in using AI in the workplace.

What other skills or qualities do you believe are essential for them to succeed?

Success in tech requires adaptability, a “learn-it-all” mindset, resilience, strong communication, empathy, and emotional intelligence.

PHOTOGRAPHY Veronica Tay

OFFICIAL BEAUTY PARTNER Cle de Peau Beaute

ART DIRECTION Ray Ticsay & Adeline Eng

STYLING Neo Lirong, assisted by Sabrina Kong

HAIR & MAKEUP Benedict Choo, Aung Apichai and Clayton Goo, all using Cle de Peau Beaute

LOCATION Mandala Club