Landing page banner
At first sight, Inspector (Insp) Sheila Lim is a picture of youthfulness and vitality. Having spent a year working as an Investigation Officer (IO) at Woodlands Police Division, she sees herself as only at the beginning of her career. Her strong passion for the Force stands out – but her path here began in a very different place: architecture.
From Drafting to Policing
“I’ve had a passion for criminology and Police-related work since I was young,” Insp Lim candidly shares. Although she went on to study architecture as her first step towards exploring the arts, the idea of joining the Singapore Police Force (SPF) started to grow again in her final year as a student in Temasek Polytechnic. Having spoken with relatives who served in the SPF, she began to see policing as a viable career path.
“My love for crime documentaries and the thriller genre definitely helped too,” she quips. “My family was really supportive of my decision and they encouraged me to join the Force.”
This proved pivotal in her eventual decision to join the SPF in August 2023, after which she started her training at the Home Team Academy (HTA).
A Whole New World
The training proved challenging for Insp Lim. Being in an unfamiliar environment with little time to contact her loved ones wore on her as time progressed. “Looking back, there were many times during my trainee days when I struggled with self-doubt and even considered giving up,” she shares.
What kept her going? “The support of my family and friends, along with sheer perseverance,” she replies.
The nine-month course culminated in an experiential leadership training trip to Nepal, where she climbed Poon Hill with her fellow batchmates. “Seeing where I am now in my career and how far I’ve come in terms of my personal growth fills me with pride,” she reflects. “This entire experience has been one of my proudest milestones.”
Lines of Duty, Lines of Art
“When I first started out in the Force, I was soft-spoken and reserved,” Insp Lim shares. “I lacked the confidence and assertiveness typically expected of an IO, and this really affected my performance at work.”
However, through taking on difficult cases and meeting individuals with a range of needs, she learned to adapt and grow. “Each experience taught me the importance of composure, judgment and standing firm when it matters,” she says.
While stepping out of her comfort zone shaped her into someone who is more resilient and decisive, she knows she can do better. “There’s definitely more room to grow,” she says with a smile.
Insp Lim credits her growth in the SPF to her supportive colleagues and mentors. “They patiently answered the countless questions I had as a newbie in the Force,” she explains. “Their guidance and encouragement made all the difference in helping me get through the early days of my career.”
Her role as an IO has also taught her the importance of time management and work-life balance. “Creativity remains a big part of who I am,” she asserts, pointing to a number of detailed drawings pinned to the walls of her cubicle – a space where her personality truly shines.
“I’ve always enjoyed drawing since I was young,” she says. “I’d say I have a passion for both art and policing – while policing is something that I’m deeply interested in, art is something I turn to whenever I need to feel calm.”
Besides drawing, she also makes time to play volleyball with her friends over the weekends, to de-stress.
Her Story, Her Reflections
Insp Lim is also glad for the strong support from other female officers, and the range of experiences they bring to policing. “In my experience, having female officers on a team brings a different dynamic,” she shares. “In cases involving vulnerable individuals, our presence often offers a more empathetic approach, which can be crucial in gaining trust and providing comfort.”
When asked to give a piece of advice to women exploring a career in policing, she sums it up simply: “Don’t be afraid – as long as you have a passion for policing, you’ll find purpose and fulfilment in what you do.”
Reflecting on her journey, she also has a few words for her younger self who’s just starting out in the Force: “Trust yourself more. Be confident, be patient and allow yourself the time and space to grow. What matters most is pushing through, learning along the way and not letting fear or self-doubt hold you back.”
Kickstart your SPF journey today and step up to a career that goes beyond! Visit our website to find out more.
