Surety is a new platform bringing important conversations about menopause into the spotlight in Asia. Founded by 27-year-old Valery Tan, Surety aims to provide women with the support, knowledge, and confidence they need to navigate menopause. Menopause is a natural phase, yet in many cultures, it’s still rarely discussed. Here’s how Surety is helping women talk openly about menopause and creating a supportive community in Asia.
The Birth of Surety: Inspired by a Mother’s Experience
Surety began as an idea when Valery Tan, a student in Singapore, joined a venture-building programme. Along with her co-founder, Elmer Yap, Valery initially focused on women’s health and contraceptives. However, she soon realised that other companies were already covering that space. It was her mother’s experience with menopause that inspired her to take Surety in a new direction.
Surety co-founders Elmer Yap and Valery Tan are aiming to increase awareness of perimenopause and menopause. Image from Surety
When Valery’s mother began experiencing mood swings, hot flashes, and other symptoms, Valery saw firsthand the challenges of menopause. “Watching her go through this was hard,” Valery said. As an only child, she felt the impact on their relationship, and she realised how much menopause can affect a woman’s quality of life. Valery was also struck by how little information and support were available for women in her mother’s situation.
Surety’s Mission: Breaking Down the Stigma
Surety’s main mission is to encourage open discussions about menopause. Valery hopes to help women feel comfortable discussing menopause with their families and friends. In Singapore, as in many parts of Asia, menopause is rarely talked about because it’s seen as a private or even taboo topic. Surety is changing that by creating resources and spaces where women can talk freely about this natural life stage.
Surety’s approach is unique because it considers the cultural nuances of menopause in Asia. Many resources available are Western-focused and lack relevance for Asian women. Surety aims to fill this gap by providing content that resonates with the local culture and addresses the specific challenges Asian women face.
Surety’s Menopause Festival: Building a Supportive Community
Image from surety.sg Instagram
One of Surety’s most significant initiatives is its annual Menopause Festival. Held in November, this festival brings together experts, healthcare providers, and women of all backgrounds to discuss menopause. The event includes panel discussions, interactive sessions, and chances for women to connect and support each other.
The Menopause Festival is designed not only for women experiencing menopause but also for their families, friends, and even employers. Valery believes that creating a support network helps reduce the isolation that many women feel during menopause. Surety’s goal is to make these conversations normal, empowering women and educating those around them.
1. Community Events and Programmes
Surety also hosts a variety of community events, such as wellness programmes and corporate workshops. These events cover topics ranging from relationships and holistic wellness to medical advice. By addressing all areas of life, Surety helps women see menopause as more than just a health issue – it’s a phase that affects every part of their lives.
2. PausePlay: Surety’s Digital Support App
Surety understands that many women prefer the convenience of digital tools. To meet this need, they’re developing an app called PausePlay. This app will help women track symptoms, find resources, and connect with others for support. The app aims to be a reliable companion for women going through menopause, providing them with information and support whenever they need it.
Involving Younger Generations in the Conversation
Although Surety focuses on menopause, Valery’s young team is helping to reach not only women in menopause but also their daughters, friends, and colleagues. Valery believes that bringing in younger generations creates more understanding and empathy within families and workplaces. With Surety’s fresh approach, menopause becomes a subject that everyone can talk about, rather than a private struggle for women to face alone.
Valery says that seeing younger women embrace these conversations gives her hope. By making menopause an open topic, Surety is helping women feel less alone and breaking down cultural taboos.
Surety’s Vision for Women’s Health in Asia
Surety envisions itself as a leading resource for women’s health in Asia, with menopause as its central focus. Valery knows that changing cultural perceptions is a big goal that won’t happen overnight. But she’s committed to making Surety a long-term presence in the region. “We’re excited to keep building and engaging with the community,” she shares.
Surety is paving the way for a future where menopause can be openly discussed, understood, and supported by the community. With its focus on cultural relevance, Surety is creating a safe, informed space for Asian women to feel empowered through every stage of life.
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