Woman in Innovation: Candy Yeo on Building Communities at TUMCREATE

08.03.2025

 

When Candy Eevie Yeo stepped into her role as an Innovation Manager at TUMCREATE, she quickly realised that community building is more than a part of her job – it is her calling.  

“Since I joined the research institution in 2022, my focus is on ensuring that scientific advancements don’t just stay in the lab, but create meaningful impact in society,” Candy says. 

“This is by designing and leading strategic programs, innovation initiatives, and partnerships that empower research teams to translate their work into real-world solutions.”  

This International Women’s Day, supporting the theme ‘accelerate action,’ we had a chat with Candy. Read below about the inspirational figure that fuels her work and her passion for empowering women in the field of science.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

To me, International Women’s Day is about celebrating women who are making an impact – whether in research, technology, business, or beyond. It’s about paving the way for the next generation, ensuring they have the support, opportunities, and encouragement to thrive. It’s about enabling women to drive change in science and innovation, to lead in fields that remain largely male-dominated. 

 

What are some assumptions about women that you hope to change? 

I want to challenge the outdated assumptions that all women are risk-averse, less committed due to family priorities, or struggle with authority. These stereotypes not only undermine women's contributions but also hinder progress in industries that thrive on diversity and innovation. It’s time to move beyond token representation and recognise the real value women bring to shaping the future. 

 

What are some challenges you face in accelerating action as an innovation manager and how do you tackle it?

Redefining Perceptions 

The challenge: As an Innovation Manager, I am sometimes perceived through a narrow lens, mistaken for an administrator rather than being recognised for my role in shaping strategy and enabling research impact. Such assumptions risk diminishing the significance of my contributions and, more broadly, undervaluing women’s leadership in innovation. 

The approach: I counter these misconceptions by speaking out, asserting my expertise, and engaging decisively within the ecosystem. Delivering reliably on the highest standard not only shifts perceptions but also broadens the path for more women to step into influential roles in innovation leadership. 

Reshaping Norms 

The challenge: Women in innovation often navigate unspoken expectations about how they should present themselves. Assertiveness or directness might be misinterpreted, creating additional barriers to advancing bold ideas. 

The approach: I remain steadfast in my vision and adapt to the dynamics of different environments. I challenge outdated norms by substantiating my ideas with strategic insights, by fostering collaboration, and mentoring the next generation of female innovators. Over time, validating my leadership with results has also reinforced a larger truth in my community: innovation flourishes when diverse voices and perspectives are empowered. 

 

How can organisations accelerate leadership in innovation?

Organisations have the power to drive meaningful change by implementing and championing flexible programs that support women’s career advancement. By fostering a culture where diverse voices are integral to decision-making, they can create structured pathways that empower women to step into leadership roles with confidence. True progress lies not just in representation, but in ensuring women have the opportunities, support, and visibility to shape the future of innovation and industry.  

 

Lastly, name one woman that inspire you and tell us why?

Dame Sue Black, herself a world-renowned forensic scientist, is an extraordinary source of inspiration – especially when she takes the stage. Her career is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. What sets her apart is not just her expertise but her authenticity. She approaches everything with a grounded, relatable presence that makes her impact even more profound. As a passionate advocate for women in STEM, she has championed mentoring initiatives and established programs that have paved the way for more women to thrive in tech and research careers. Her work serves as a powerful motivator for anyone striving to break barriers and drive meaningful change.