Finding Your Tribe

ANJU CAWTHRA is a Brit who has been in Singapore for almost 20 years – she lives here with her husband and two daughters and runs an online community for expats.

Where are you from originally?

I’m a proud Brummie! Birmingham is a vibrant cultural melting pot with the warmest, friendliest people and some of the most authentic international cuisine you’ll find anywhere.

What brought you to Singapore, and where had you been living previously?

We moved from London for my fiancé’s (now husband’s) supposed six-month secondment. We arrived on April Fool’s Day with just one big black suitcase each – a decision we still laugh about almost two decades later!

Tell us a bit about what you do in Singapore.

I run Seasoned Singapore Expat Women (SSEW) – an online community that’s nearly nine years strong. It’s a safe haven where long-term expats share experiences, seek recommendations and find support. I spend my days connecting people, spotlighting what’s happening around town, championing small businesses, and hosting events that bring our community together in meaningful ways

What inspired you to take on SSEW?

When I arrived in 2007, finding my tribe was surprisingly difficult.  When the opportunity to lead SSEW presented itself, everything clicked into place. My graphic design background made the social media aspect feel natural, but it’s the human connection that truly energises me. I love Singapore, I love bringing people together, and it’s in my blood to serve the community! The role perfectly blends my creative and social passions.

How has the SSEW community changed or evolved since 2017?

We’ve witnessed a dramatic shift from a high number of “trailing spouses” to a thriving mix of female entrepreneurs, breadwinners and career-driven women. It’s been inspiring to watch the community’s evolution mirror broader societal changes.

What’s your favourite aspect of your work?

The beautiful unpredictability of it all! One day I’m planting a SSEW tree, the next I’m hosting an event, reviewing a new opening or interviewing inspiring women from our business community. I get to experience new things constantly, meet extraordinary people, and learn endlessly from the incredible richness of our members’ lives and perspectives.

Any particular surprises or challenges you’ve found living and working in Singapore?

Change is the only constant! The rapid transformation keeps you on your toes – what’s here today might be reimagined tomorrow. It’s both exhilarating and challenging, but it’s also what keeps life here so dynamic and interesting.

What are a few things you like to do in Singapore when you’re not working?

Aside from my taxi mum duties… I’m passionate about exploring on foot. We’re incredibly fortunate in Singapore to have such diverse landscapes – beaches, jungle trails, urban streetscapes, striking modern architecture, heritage gems and countless parks and green spaces. I’m also an avid arts enthusiast. Whether it’s music, dance, theatre or galleries, you’ll likely find me at a performance or exhibition soaking up the creative energy!

What are you looking forward to most in 2026?

Growing awareness of SSEW so more women can benefit from this remarkable community. I know there are women out there who would thrive having a safe space to ask questions, seek advice and connect with others who truly understand the expat journey.

FB @Seasoned Singapore Expat Women
IG @ssewsg
ssew.co

This article first appeared in the March 2026 issue of Expat Living magazine. You can buy the latest issue or an annual subscription or read the digital version for free now.

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