In celebration of International Women’s Day, Love, Bonito, Southeast Asia’s leading womenswear brand, hosted its inaugural regional women’s summit, bringing together over 400 attendees for a day of empowering conversations on resilience, leadership, and redefining success. Among the esteemed speakers was Malaysia’s squash icon, Datuk Nicol David, who took the stage to highlight the crucial role of women—particularly mothers—in shaping the next generation of champions.
One of the summit’s most inspiring moments was the unveiling of Ibu Legends, a groundbreaking initiative founded by Datuk Nicol David. This program is dedicated to supporting the mothers of young athletes in Malaysia, equipping them with the tools, resources, and a strong community network to guide their children through the competitive world of sports.
Empowering Mothers, Shaping Future Champions
Datuk Nicol David’s personal journey to becoming an eight-time world squash champion was fuelled by relentless perseverance and an unwavering support system, particularly from her mother. Recognising the significant role that mothers play in their children’s success, Ibu Legends seeks to empower these women through mentorship programs, workshops, and knowledge-sharing sessions.
The initiative covers essential topics such as nutrition, mental health support, and career planning for young athletes. By providing these mothers with access to expert advice and a nurturing support network, Ibu Legends ensures that they are well-equipped to guide their children through the highs and lows of competitive sports.
“Beyond sports, I hope to make a positive impact on the younger generation by sharing my experiences and encouraging them to believe in themselves. With dedication, resilience, and the right support system, they can overcome any challenge and achieve their dreams,” said Datuk Nicol.
Left to Right: Justin Kim, CEO & Co-Founder of Hupo; Yeo Sha-En, founder of Happiness Scientists; Maya Kale, Co-founder of Moom Health and Datuk Nicol David, Former World No.1 and eight-time world squash champion
A Movement for Women’s Empowerment
The Love, Bonito Women’s Summit also featured an inspiring lineup of female leaders, including Maya Kale, Co-founder of Moom Health; Yeo Sha-En, founder of Happiness Scientists; and Tan Su Shan, incoming CEO of DBS Bank. These influential women shared their insights on overcoming adversity, embracing resilience, and breaking barriers in their respective fields.
The discussions emphasized the importance of women supporting women, whether in sports, business, or personal growth. Love, Bonito’s commitment to women’s empowerment through initiatives like this summit aligns with Datuk Nicol David’s mission, reinforcing a growing movement where women uplift one another.
Fostering a Future of Stronger, More Confident Women
The summit’s key takeaway was clear: when women are empowered, entire communities thrive. Whether it’s a mother supporting her aspiring athlete, a mentor guiding a young professional, or a female entrepreneur breaking new ground, the power of collective resilience and encouragement can create lasting change.
As Malaysia continues to produce world-class athletes and leaders, initiatives like Ibu Legends serve as a beacon of hope, proving that success is not just about individual achievements but about fostering a culture where women can rise together. With champions like Datuk Nicol David leading the charge, the future for Malaysian women—and their children—looks brighter than ever.
