A Mother’s Day Tribute: Working Mothers of

What’s more noble than the selfless love a devoted mother has for her child?

A mother’s love is a force like no other. It is both strong and gentle, loud and quiet, and knows no bounds. Whether they are dedicated homemakers and caregivers, or working professionals who share their time between home, family, and work, mothers are the unsung heroes of all time.

In conjunction with Mother’s Day, we spoke to 4 mothers from our Ambition offices across Asia to understand their motherhood journey, the things they have learned, and their advice to other working mothers.

Fiona Mak

Managing Director, Ambition Technology Services

How do you balance work and life as a working mother?
Keeping my weekends work free! I always try to stay away from using my phone from Friday to Sunday evenings by putting it on silent. I’m also very grateful to have my mother-in-law and helper’s assistance to look after my children when I’m at work.

What’s the best thing about being a working mother?
The best thing about being a working mother is being able to achieve my own career aspirations and be financially independent.

What’s your greatest challenge as a working mother?
I often feel guilty when I miss some of my children’s important moments due to work. For example, taking them to school on their first day of kindergarten, being present when they attend a speech competition, and witnessing the loss of their first baby tooth. I often ask myself to let it go but it will remain a challenge to me.

Sandrapriya Murugiah

Managing Consultant, Technology, Ambition Malaysia

How do you balance work and life as a working mother?
I’ve learnt that it’s important to know when to stop working and when to resume working. In other words, prioritise work and life accordingly with good time management skills. It also helps to have a strong mindset and the drive to be successful.

What’s your greatest challenge as a working mother?
My son falls under the autism (aka @Ausome) spectrum so at times things can be mentally and physically exhausting – especially when there are intense tantrums. However, I’m blessed with a good manager and a group of supportive colleagues who are always there to encourage and support me whenever things are tough. The camaraderie has definitely kept me going.

What do you have to say to other working mothers out there?
To all wonder mamas out there, you are special, wonderful, and beautiful. All our time and effort spent between work and our children are worth it. Keep on rocking and inspiring everyone around you!

Tracy Tam

Learning & Development Lead, Ambition Asia

How do you balance work and life as a working mother?
I’m still pretty new at parenting (at the time of writing, my baby boy is 17 months old) so I’m still learning to strike a better balance between work and personal life.

However, one of the few things I did learn as a new mother is that it’s important to ask and accept help whenever possible – be it house chores or work tasks. At the same time, I’m learning to remove as much distractions as possible. For example, keeping myself in the office during working hours to stay productive at work, and switching off electronic devices as soon as I reach home so I can spend quality time with my child. I try my very best to avoid juggling work and family-related tasks at the same time.

What’s the best thing about being a working mother?
Being a role model to my child with unique stories to share. I can also show my child how to work hard to achieve career goals, have a sense of responsibility, and stay current with what’s happening around the world.

What’s your greatest challenge as a working mother?
Since becoming a working mother, I often find myself physically tired due to lack of sleep and rest. At the same time, I feel very fulfilled that I can be there for my family while maintaining my career.

Melody Leow

Consultant, Banking & Financial Services, Ambition Singapore

How do you balance work and life as a working mother?
As a recruiter, it is not easy to balance work and life as a working mother. However, I try my best to ‘switch off’ after work and on weekends, so I can give my kids my full attention. I work hard, so I can play hard with my family.

What’s the best thing about being a working mother?
As a mother, it’s very easy to lose your identity especially during the early years. Having a career allows me to dream, grow, and develop as a person as well as contribute to the family.

What do you have to say to other working mothers out there?
You’re amazing! I know you’re doing the best you can for your family so take time to reward yourself, enjoy spending time with your kids, and invest in your relationship with your husband. As they say, the days are long, but the years are short so treasure every moment. Don’t worry about tomorrow, be present in the now.

Wishing every mother a very Happy Mother’s Day!

Are you looking for a meaningful career where you can make a difference? Here at Ambition, you’ll experience our supportive culture, receive competitive compensation and benefits, and enjoy flexibility with your work arrangements (hybrid working model). Find your next opportunity with Ambition today.