International Women’s Day: A Conversation on Accelerating Gender Equality

Wednesday, March 12, 2025
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Organized in collaboration with the American Women's Association of Singapore (AWA)

Gender equality is still five generations away and let’s change that!

Hear from a diverse panel of leaders in business, finance, entertainment, education, coaching, and the military as they share their challenges, successes, and efforts to drive change.

Then, enjoy a reception with a local poet, a girls’ dance troupe, and young rugby players. Join us to learn, connect, and take accelerate action!

Member: $12 | Guest: $15

Panelists

Claudia Barston
Principal in Marketing at PK AirFinance

Claudia Barston is a Principal of Marketing at PK AirFinance (Singapore), overseeing aircraft finance opportunities across Asia Pacific. She works with airlines, leasing companies, and financial investors.

Previously, she was Vice President at GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS) / PK AirFinance and held finance roles at The Transportation Group across New York, London, Tokyo, and Singapore.

Claudia holds a BA in Political Science and Spanish from Gettysburg College.

Jessica Petty
Retired British Army Officer & War Veteran

A retired British Army Officer and war veteran, Jessica honed her leadership and crisis management skills at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and during an operational tour in Afghanistan. Now a business leader and high-performance coach, she applies her military expertise to drive success in sports and entrepreneurship. As Founder of Ministry of Fitness and Singapore Trampoline Academy, and Global Manager for HYROX Youngstars, she develops elite athletes while navigating business challenges with resilience and precision. Balancing leadership, coaching, and motherhood, Jessica exemplifies adaptability and excellence in every endeavor.

Kalliope Coplin
Vocalist, Voice & Confidence Coach, and Education Specialist

With over 20 years of experience in education, performance, and vocal health, Kalliope helps individuals discover their authentic voice and presence. Based in Singapore, she’s worked as a teacher, entertainer, and vocal health specialist across the APAC region.

As the founder of Band on the Run Entertainment, Kalliope blends performance psychology and vocal wellness to help clients in corporate and creative sectors communicate confidently. Passionate about authentic expression, she believes finding one’s true voice boosts personal and professional success.

Melissa Wilde
Educator

Melissa Wilde is a Black, queer, neurodiverse educator focused on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice in education. Growing up as a US diplomat’s child in Eswatini, Japan, South Africa, and South Korea, she developed a passion for advocacy. A graduate of St. Edward’s University, she began her career in special education, teaching in Germany, Romania, and Italy.

Currently, she teaches Theatre and directs productions at Stamford American International School, where she also serves on the DEI Council. Melissa founded JEDI, a student leadership group advocating for marginalized students, and is expanding it to include High School students. She’s also directing Seussical Jr. for Middle School.

Terms and Conditions:
• A no-show and 72-hour cancellation policy applies. Failing which, the full fees will be charged to the Members’ account.