SINGAPORE, March 31, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wood Mackenzie, a global leader in analytics, insights and proprietary data across the energy and natural resources landscape, hosted an exclusive event in partnership with Special Olympics Asia Pacific (SOAP), titled “Women & Girls Rising Through Sport.”

Held at Wood Mackenzie’s Asia Pacific headquarters in Singapore, the event marked the International Women’s Day 2026 theme, “Give To Gain,” and spotlighted the transformative role of sport in empowering women and girls with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), a group that remains significantly underrepresented across the region.

The collaboration reflects Wood Mackenzie’s ongoing commitment to its Thrive program, which focuses on community engagement, wellness, sustainability, and Inclusion, Diversity & Belonging (ID&B). Across Asia Pacific, women account for just 30% of Special Olympics participants, underscoring persistent barriers to access, safety, and funding. By bringing together this dialogue with Special Olympics Asia Pacific, Wood Mackenzie aims to help close this gap and advance more inclusive participation in sport.

“Inclusion isn't a box we tick. it's something we try to live through the way we work and the partnerships we choose” said Derryn Maade, Global Head of Metals & Mining at Wood Mackenzie. “Our Thrive program reflects that commitment in a tangible way, and partnering with Special Olympics Asia Pacific brings that commitment to life. The work they do to open doors for women and girls across our region is exactly the kind of impact we want to be part of.”

Jovina Choo, Senior Manager, Sports at Special Olympics Asia Pacific and Olympic Sailor, said, “Systemic barriers continue to limit the participation of women and girls with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) across our region from inadequate transport and limited access to facilities, to safety concerns and persistent cultural biases.

“Yet, across Asia Pacific, female athletes are rising above these challenges demonstrating resilience, redefining perceptions, and leading change. Through sport, they build confidence, develop skills, and inspire more inclusive communities. Together, we have the power to accelerate this progress. By contributing our time, voice, resources, and networks, we can break down barriers and create lasting change to ensure every woman and girl with IDD is heard, supported, and empowered both on and off the field."

The evening featured a panel discussion moderated by Pippa Woodhead, Board Member of Special Olympics Asia Pacific. Titled “Women and Girls Rising Through Sport,” the session brought together athletes, advocates, and community leaders, including:

Jovina Choo, Senior Manager, Sports at Special Olympics Asia Pacific and Olympic Sailor

Megan Tang, Special Olympics Singapore dance sport athlete and athlete leader

Jasmine Lai, parent advocate and mother of Megan Tang

James Andrade, Singapore Head, US-ASEAN Business Council and ASEAN special advisor

Panellists shared personal and professional insights on overcoming systemic barriers, highlighting how access to sport can build confidence, foster independence, and unlock leadership opportunities for women with IDD. Drawing on ongoing Special Olympics research, the discussion reinforced that investing in female athletes delivers far-reaching benefits, not only for individuals, but for families, communities, and society at large.

The event concluded with a call to action for organisations and individuals to support Special Olympics Asia Pacific’s key funding priorities, including coach development, safe and inclusive training environments, and leadership pathways for female athletes. By aligning purpose with action, the partnership highlights a shared belief: when women and girls are empowered through sport, everyone stands to gain.

For further information please contact: 

Wood Mackenzie

Hla Myat Mon 

+65 8533 8860 

 hla.myatmon@woodmac.com 

Special Olympic Asia Pacific

Shree Ann Mathavan

+6596634955

smathavan@specialolympics.org

Hla Myat Mon

Wood Mackenzie

85338860

hla.myatmon@woodmac.com

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