Board of Directors
GDS is led by a group of qualified professionals, all of whom are bound together by their love of working dogs and their empathy for the blind or vision impaired. All Board members are not paid any remuneration or director’s fees.
Chairman
Dr. Wong Hon Tym
Clinical Director, Centre for Healthcare Innovation, Tan Tock Seng Hospital
Senior Consultant, Dept of Ophthalmology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital
As an eye surgeon in Singapore, I am painfully aware that there is scant community support available for those who have lost their vision. I wanted to understand and help those who are bravely forging ahead in their own lives, regardless of their vision impairment. And I love dogs, so I was honoured and delighted to be asked on board!
Deputy Chairwoman & Secretary
Ms. Lee Sutton
Managing Director, Dynamic PR & Events
I wanted to give back to the local community after establishing my business here. Upon learning about the challenges faced by a blind man in using public transport and accessing public facilities, I wanted to offer my public relations experience to increase awareness of guide dogs and the important work that they do.
Director
Mr. John Shum
Partner in King & Wood Mallesons Singapore
I have been a long-time supporter of charities for people with vision impairment, coupled with being a dedicated dog owner. Upon moving to Singapore, my involvement with GDS began with offering pro bono legal services. More recently, I have contributed to fundraising and profile-raising efforts.
I am greatly impressed by the huge impact this organisation can make in an individual’s life, not only through guide dogs but also the comprehensive Orientation and Mobility training they provide, along with their efforts in public education and outreach. It is truly an honour and privilege to have been invited to join the board.
Director
Mr. Isaac Poh
Asia Pacific Head of Digital Marketing, Schroders
I have always believed in the power of purposeful work. My decision to volunteer as a board director for Guide Dogs Singapore stems from a deep admiration for their commitment to empowering the visually impaired community. Witnessing the transformative impact of their services has inspired me to contribute my expertise in the marketing sphere, meaningfully and hopefully with added value.
By joining the board, I aim to help shape impactful initiatives and strengthen the organisation’s reach, ensuring that more individuals benefit from their remarkable work, not just locally but as an example for others outside of our nation to emulate.
Together, we can create a future where every blind person has the opportunity to thrive.
Director
Mr. Matthew Whittall
Independent Consultant/Director, Mining Strategies Limited
Coming from a corporate finance background and having moved to Singapore recently, I was looking at ways to contribute to organisations that support people with disabilities. GDS immediately captured my interest, thanks to the significant support they received in Singapore because of their comprehensive Orientation and Mobility training and public awareness programmes.
It has been a privilege to volunteer and work alongside the dedicated staff at GDS. I look forward to playing a part in the expansion of guide dog teams and working towards enabling more people with vision impairment to lead independent lives.
Director
Dr. Tan Hwei Lan
Assistant Professor, Health & Social Sciences, Singapore Institute of Technology
Volunteering at GDS has provided me with valuable insights into the capabilities of people with vision impairment. I am consistently amazed by the tenacity they show and how, with the right resources such as guide dogs, good orientation and mobility skills, and supportive family and friends, they can lead meaningful lives and fulfil their aspirations.
Working alongside the team of board directors and staff has been a rewarding experience, and I am grateful for the lessons they have taught me and the friendships we have forged over the years.
Director
Dr. Trina Tan Li Lian
Lecturer, Republic Polytechnic
I once had a neighbourhood friend who was blind. His vision impairment seemed to create a barrier, making him almost ‘hidden’ from our daily lives. Initially, blindness felt to me like a contagious disease. We were reacquainted when he entered university and I was roped in as a volunteer to read textbooks into software that translated the materials into Braille for him. The greatest gift he gave me was the realisation that we could integrate both our worlds, creating a more inclusive ‘his and my world’.
Volunteering with GDS is a wonderful possibility for me to continue building and developing the ‘this AND that’ so more opportunities can be created for a world that is both inclusive and diverse.
Thank You for Your Contribution Towards Guide Dogs Singapore
Dr. Lennie Lee
Dr. Lennie Lee resigned in Jan 2024. He is succeeded by Dr. Jeremy Lee, veterinarian at The Animal Clinic.
Dr. Lee served as a Volunteer Director with GDS from 2016 to 2024. During his directorship and role as a veterinary advisor, his unwavering commitment to the well-being of the guide dogs ensured the safety of the dogs and clients who rely on them for safe and independent travel.
Together with The Animal Clinic, he put in place a comprehensive wellness programme, making sure our working dogs receive the best care and remain in optimal health. He would also screen the dogs’ health history before they were brought in from overseas for training in Singapore so that these dogs start their guiding journey with a strong foundation for success.
Dr. Lee is not just a compassionate and dedicated director to us, but a dear friend of ours. His contributions have been instrumental in the success of GDS guide dog programme, and the fulfilment of GDS’s mission in empowering blind and vision impaired people to achieve their fullest potential within society. His legacy will continue to resonate within the organisation and the community it serves.
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