25'  Chinese Singapore

Are women’s fates truly predetermined by society and family? This documentary travels between Singapore and Nepal to explore the lives of two women—Lim Kim Yan, a 72-year-old retired nurse from Singapore, and Rabina, a young woman from rural Nepal—who challenge the roles tradition has set for them.

Kim Yan grew up in privilege but lived independently, choosing [...]

Are women’s fates truly predetermined by society and family? This documentary travels between Singapore and Nepal to explore the lives of two women—Lim Kim Yan, a 72-year-old retired nurse from Singapore, and Rabina, a young woman from rural Nepal—who challenge the roles tradition has set for them.

Kim Yan grew up in privilege but lived independently, choosing a life of service over marriage. Even after retirement, she uses her medical expertise to serve impoverished villages in Nepal and India. Her second chapter in life is defined not by comfort, but by compassion and a deep sense of purpose.

Meanwhile, Rabina fights to stay in school while juggling responsibilities at home and in her family’s sundry shop. Despite poverty, societal pressure, and the legacy of caste and gender expectations, she emerges as a role model—confident, educated, and now leading other students in character-building education inspired by Tzu Chi Foundation.

Through their contrasting yet converging paths, The Women of Two Cities paints a compelling portrait of womanhood, choice, and perseverance. It’s a story about breaking free from social molds and rewriting one’s life with courage. More than just two women’s narratives, the film is a heartfelt meditation on how destiny is not given, but made.

Category:  Documentary 

Genre:  Human Rights