GWOT 2016 Esther Wang
Esther Wang, 28, Founder and CEO, Joytingle

While volunteering at a children’s ward in a hospital, Esther noticed that children with chronic illnesses were scared of having their blood taken. Trained as a product designer, Esther decided to create a solution to help them. With the help of the ACE Startups grant from SPRING Singapore, and incubation support from Social Venture Lab@NUS, she set up Joytingle in 2012. She then worked with the National University Hospital and KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital to invent Rabbit Ray. In a deliberate move, Esther chose to partner a local contract manufacturer that employs an older generation of Singaporeans. “These individuals bring decades worth of experience and immaculate workmanship to every Rabbit Ray,” she says. “Despite their age, their hands are deft with the blade.”

Rabbit Ray is a patient engagement device…
“Ideal for four- to eight-year-olds, it helps reduce their fear of needles. Children learn about phlebotomy (blood draw), vaccinations, plug setting and intravenous drip, and as they become more familiar with the medical procedures, they become less fearful too.”

The first Rabbit Ray play session was defining…
“I watched as the child looked at Rabbit Ray with intrigue, and after the play session, she was able to tell me the functions of the syringe and white blood cells. It was a priceless moment.”

I never intended to be an entrepreneur…
When Rabbit Ray was accepted in an international healthcare conference (Australia) for presentation, and shortlisted in the global top 15 for the James Dyson Award, I realised I had a winner in my hands. Besides being a designer, I’ve also become an entrepreneur, so that I can do justice to the ideas in my hands.”

If Esther Wang inspires you, vote for her in The Most Inspiring Award here. You will stand a chance to win prizes worth up to $1,230!

The Great Women Of Our Time 2016 is presented by Skin Inc and co-sponsored by Swarovski.