In 2023, Alka Gupta and Mai Vo founded Podium, a community platform aimed at empowering women as they navigate significant life choices. The initiative caters to women in their late 20s to early 40s, focusing on building networks that support personal and professional growth. Events organized by Podium range from informal meetups to educational masterclasses covering topics like financial literacy and health.
Membership is available at S$100 per quarter or S$300 annually, with event costs varying from S$10 to S$30. Members have the flexibility to choose which sessions they wish to attend, alongside complimentary online activities. To join, individuals must complete a detailed questionnaire and undergo verification through LinkedIn, a process aimed at ensuring intentional participation rather than exclusivity.
Gupta and Vo emphasize the importance of normalizing the act of seeking help among women, particularly in environments where they may feel hesitant to reach out to one another. Last year, Podium successfully matched over 100 groups, facilitating connections based on shared aspirations while maintaining a no-sales policy among members.