If We Could Host Our Own Star Awards, Here’s Who Would Win Big

The Star Awards 2025 took place on July 6, with plenty of glamour and heartwarming moments (like the fun wefie with Chow Yun Fat).

So, in the true spirit of the occasion (and a little friendly competition), we’re rolling out The Singapore Women’s Weekly take on the Star Awards — with a fun twist.

Forget Best Actor or Most Popular Drama. Here, we’re spotlighting the viral, the relatable, and the occasionally unfiltered. From TikTok queens to political firsts to viral moments from yours truly, these are the moments and people in 2025 that made us laugh, cry, and double-tap our screens.

Ready to see who’s taking home the imaginary trophies? Grab your popcorn (or kopi), because The SWW Awards are about to begin — and trust us, the drama is all in good fun.

The Singapore Women's Weekly's "Star Awards" 2025

Best Tearjerking Video: "We Almost Walked Away" Ft. SGAG's Adrian Ang & His Wife Goh Xin Lei

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Usually the king of punchlines and dad jokes, SGAG’s Xiao Ming (Adrian Ang) left everyone speechless — and a little teary-eyed — in our Valentine’s Day special. No one expected to see him get so real and vulnerable, but wow, what a plot twist.

In an emotional heart-to-heart with his wife, Goh Xin Lei, Adrian opened up about the real struggles behind their picture-perfect marriage: fertility challenges, miscarriages, and the balancing act of parenthood. The headphones challenge meant he couldn’t hear her answers, but he could see every tear and every smile — which made the whole thing even more moving.

By the time Adrian’s voice cracked and Xin Lei’s eyes filled with tears, we were all reaching for the tissues. Who knew the guy who makes us laugh till we cry could make us cry for real? If you missed it, trust us: this is one viral moment that proves even the funniest people have the biggest hearts.

Most Rage-baity Talkshow: Two Tired Mums Ft. Estelle Low & Jill Lim

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Co-host Jill Lim spilled the ultimate tea in and sparked plenty of conversation in Episode 1 of Two Tired Mums by The Singapore Women’s Weekly — and for good reason.

In one segment, Jill opened up about the real costs of prenatal care, such as checkups and scans, sharing that she had covered them all by herself. Her honesty drew a wide range of reactions on social media — from surprise to debate. In another episode focused on first-time mum fails, she candidly recalled a stressful family trip with her young kid, highlighting the clashing expectations that often arise in new parenthood. Once again, the internet had opinions.

While these videos did receive online bashing for *some* things that were said, many others expressed appreciation for their unfiltered take on motherhood. For the non-parents, it opened their eyes to the unseen parts of parenthood. For the parents, it was a solid show of solidarity – Two Tired Mums helped them feel less alone. More human. And for that, we are glad.

Biggest Mum Milestone: Stephanie Tan (PSP)

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Stephanie Tan’s leap from full-time stay-at-home mum to political candidate is the kind of plot twist that deserves its own standing ovation. After years as a lawyer and then putting her career on pause to care for her two daughters, Stephanie didn’t just juggle school runs and snack boxes — she stepped up to the national stage, contesting Pioneer SMC in GE2025 as the Progress Singapore Party’s (PSP) new face.

Her journey from the playground to the political rally is a milestone for every mum who’s ever wondered if “just” being a parent could lead to something bigger. Stephanie’s campaign is powered by real-life caregiving experience, empathy for families, and a passion for making Singapore better for the next generation.

Whether she’s talking about PSLE stress or supporting caregivers, she’s proof that mums can do it all — and then some. If there’s ever been a “mum milestone” moment to inspire the next generation (and make us all rethink what’s possible after playgroup), this is it.

Best Return On Investment (ROI): Samuel Lee (PPP)

Samuel Lee of the People’s Power Party (PPP) pulled off what every campaign manager dreams of: maximum buzz on a shoestring budget. Official records show he declared just $100 in election spending — yes, you read that right, $100, under “other expenses”.

While other candidates were busy splurging on banners and rallies, Samuel’s “Look Left, Look Right” jingle went viral, dominating TikTok, WhatsApp, and even inspiring parodies from politicians and brands alike.

Despite spending the least out of all parties, Samuel’s catchy tune became the unofficial soundtrack of GE2025, proving that sometimes, all you need is a memorable hook (and maybe a little karaoke flair).

He’s since resigned from PPP to “look left, look right” for new opportunities, but his ROI win is one for the campaign history books.

Best Health Buddy: Ong Ye Kung

If you’ve ever found yourself brisk-walking to the MRT, taking the stairs instead of the lift, or joining a neighbourhood Zumba class “just because,” you might have Ong Ye Kung to thank.

As Singapore’s Minister for Health, the 55-year-old has made it his mission to get the nation moving — sometimes without us even realising it. From championing the Healthier SG initiative to nudging us towards active living, he’s turned everyday routines into accidental workouts, all while making public health feel surprisingly relatable.

But Minister Ong isn’t just about policies and step counts. On TikTok, he’s a low-key star, famous for his witty transitions and that now-iconic “meme-nister” t-shirt. Whether he’s breaking down health tips or making dad jokes, he’s got a knack for making wellness go viral — no gym membership required.

And let’s be honest: if this whole Minister for Health gig doesn’t work out, he could totally open a gym for seniors. Imagine a place where the playlist is all retro hits, the Zumba classes are packed, and the only thing more contagious than laughter is the urge to get moving. Until then, we’ll keep clocking our steps and watching his TikToks — sometimes both at once.

Trendjacking Champion: Gan Kim Yong

Gan Kim Yong isn’t just the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry — he’s quickly become Punggol’s most popular “senior” and community anchor.

After a surprise move from Chua Chu Kang to lead the new Punggol GRC team in GE2025, the 66-year-old brought with him over two decades of political experience, a knack for solving municipal mysteries (from monkey sightings to covered walkways), and a genuine passion for meeting residents where they are — sometimes literally, at Tai chi sessions in the park.

As part of his GE2025 campaign, Mr Gan shared a series of lighthearted and engaging social media videos. One particularly memorable clip playfully referenced the jingle by Samuel Lee of the People’s Power Party, offering a message of forward-looking leadership and inclusive progress:

"I look up to grow our economy. I look down to keep our household costs down. I look ahead to prepare for the future. And I look back to make sure no one is left behind."

Well played, sir.

Most Popular Rising Star: Zhen Zhen

Zhen Zhen, or Wan Cheng Tan, isn’t your typical influencer — she’s the Internet’s new favourite anti-heroine, and she did it without a single #OOTD.

When her iconic “throw plastic bag” and “I’m not running, I’m walking” videos landed on TikTok, viewers were torn. Was she being hilarious, brutally unfiltered, or just next-level savage? The internet responded in true fashion: memes exploded, parodies popped up everywhere, and her soundbites even found their way onto FIFA’s TikTok, where Lionel Messi made his entrance to the now-legendary shout, “Why are you running?”

But here’s the twist: the more netizens learned about Zhen Zhen’s real life — a tough-as-nails mum and juggling a “kana sai husband” (sh*t husband) — the more they started rooting for her. Suddenly, the jokes turned into genuine support. She’s relatable, she’s resilient, and she’s living proof that you don’t need filters or fairy lights to win hearts online.

Most Relatable Mumfluencer: Midiforreal

Mi Di (@midiforreal) isn’t your average mumfluencer — she’s the Internet’s brutally honest BFF who’ll roast “husband maths,” confess to mum guilt, and turn every parenting disaster into viral comedy gold.

With over half a million TikTok followers and a knack for capturing the chaos (and joy) of raising her son Xiao Jojo, Mi Di’s content is a breath of fresh air for any mum who thinks they’re the only one winging it.

Originally from Shenzhen, she survived China’s notorious gaokao exam before moving to Singapore, where she met her husband at SMU and accidentally became a “mumfluencer” after an unplanned pregnancy. Her journey from beauty and travel vlogs to hilarious, unfiltered takes on breastfeeding, sleep deprivation, and “husband maths” has made her a favourite among mums who are tired of the highlight reel and just want the real deal.

What sets Mi Di apart? She’s not afraid to show the mess, the meltdowns, or the moments when her husband gets more sleep than she does (and still complains he’s tired). She shares the highs and lows, always with a wink and a laugh, and reminds her community that it’s okay not to have it all figured out. For every mum who’s ever felt overwhelmed, undercaffeinated, or just in need of a good laugh, Mi Di is your go-to for relatable, real-life parenting with a side of viral fun.

Most Thirst-trap Instagram Account: @tampinesfs

If you thought firefighters only put out flames, think again — @tampinesfs (Tampines Fire Station) has been setting the Internet ablaze for all the right reasons. Their Instagram itself is the ultimate thirst trap with viral videos featuring uniform changes, POVs of life at the station, and “Get Ready With Me” edits that are equal parts informative and, well, dangerously charming.

From snappy transitions to the lip sync of High School Musical’s “A Night To Remember,” these SCDF officers are both hereos on the ground and on the internet. Netizens can’t get enough, especially of fireman Ethan James (affectionately dubbed “Abang Bomba”), and the comments section is always on fire. As one cheeky fan put it, “My house is suddenly on fire.”

So if you’re wondering why your feed suddenly got a whole lot hotter, blame it on the East Side’s finest—and remember, don’t call 995 unless it’s a real emergency, no matter how tempting the thirst traps get.

Most Lovable Celeb Parents: Evelyn Tan & Darren Lim

Evelyn Tan and Darren Lim are the ultimate parenting goals — and not just because they once lived on a yacht with their four kids. Married for over 20 years, this power couple has navigated everything from public scrutiny and career changes to homeschooling, dyslexia diagnoses, and raising independent, kind-hearted children.

They’ve weathered tough beginnings (Evelyn’s parents were not Darren’s biggest fans at first), but together they built a family grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and a sense of adventure. Evelyn left a rising showbiz career to become a stay-at-home mum and homeschooler, even upskilling herself to better support her kids through learning challenges. Darren, meanwhile, is the hands-on dad who’s just as likely to be found at a charity walk as he is building Lego masterpieces or supporting Evelyn’s return to acting.

Their parenting style is all about balance: Evelyn is the careful planner, Darren the experience-seeker. They encourage their children to pursue their passions, set boundaries with empathy, and believe in letting their kids learn from mistakes. And when it comes to giving back, the whole family gets involved — four generations once turned up for a charity walk to support Darren’s grandfather.

Whether they’re homeschooling on land or world-schooling at sea, Evelyn and Darren prove that love, teamwork, and a willingness to grow together are what really make a family shine. If there’s an award for Most Lovable Celeb Parents, these two have already sailed away with it.