TLC x Fempreneurs Series: Kay Cheong (The Immigration People)

In this special column called the “TLC x Fempreneurs Series”, we will be featuring inspiring Female Entrepreneurs (Fempreneurs) in short. You will be able to have a sneak peek at their mindsets and their daily habits.

Believe in the power of community. On some days when you feel big goals are impossible, or when you feel like giving up, you need to lean on your like-minded community. You can even “borrow” motivation, and in turn “return” with your own inspiring stories to pay it forward.

Meet Kay Cheong (The Immigration People)

Tell us a little about yourself. What is your business/ brand about?

I come from a below-average family, and being the eldest, I’ve always harboured an insatiable hunger for success and a burning desire to change my family’s way of life. This drive led me to work in Singapore for the past twelve years. I firmly believe that education can be a game-changer, especially for those from families with no academic background.

As for my business, The Immigration People (TIP), it’s an immigration agency known for helping foreigners establish themselves in Singapore. Drawing on over three decades of collective experience in immigration consultancy, we provide services that encompass Permanent Residence (PR) applications and various schemes catering to foreign individuals, students, artistic talents, and global investors.

What got you started on your business? 

In 2017, my current partner, Elena, and I realised that there was a gap in the market between what clients wanted and what the industry was offering. We wanted to provide more transparency to consumers, so we created TIP. We published our prices on our website and started a YouTube channel to openly discuss Singapore immigration matters. We believe that consumers should have all the information they need to make informed decisions when it comes to important life events, such as obtaining PR status.

Before you started your business, what did you do on a full-time basis?

My first official job was as a financial advisor with Great Eastern, and I even received the rookie agent award. However, my childhood dream was to work as a cabin crew for Singapore Airlines, so I decided to pursue that dream and moved to Singapore. My family background and being separated from my loved ones have taught me to be extremely self-sufficient and resilient. Despite the challenges I faced in Singapore- running my business and being a single mom – I never gave up.

What were some difficulties you faced in your life and how did you overcome them?

Balancing work, personal life, and parenting has posed significant challenges for me lately. The demanding nature of my job sometimes makes it challenging to spend quality time with my son, leading to occasional feelings of guilt. Managing these emotional strains requires constant adjustments in mindset. Despite the difficulties of juggling the responsibilities of running a company and being a parent, I’m fortunate to have a supportive business partner who shares my emotional struggles.

A notable challenge we faced at TIP was navigating the process of parting ways with team members who weren’t an ideal fit. With our limited experience in people management, it proved to be a tough learning curve. This experience compelled us to refine our decision-making skills, ensuring that every choice made was in the best interest of the company.

Additionally, founding our company during the COVID-19 pandemic presented unique hurdles, with prospects delaying their migration plans. In response, we shifted our focus to marketing efforts in Singapore, targeting audiences with work passes in the country. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, our strategic approach allowed us to remain profitable, avoiding the need for any team member retrenchment.

Who inspires you?

My biggest inspiration is my mom. She’s been my rock, my guide, and my role model throughout my life. Her resilience, strength, and unwavering support have shaped who I am today. She’s taught me the value of hard work, compassion, and perseverance, and I’m endlessly grateful for her love and wisdom.

What excites you most about your industry?

What excites me most about my industry is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on thousands of families while simultaneously contributing to the growth and development of Singapore’s economy. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that the work we do has the power to positively affect the lives of so many people, while also playing a role in advancing our nation’s prosperity and success.

What is your vision / personal motto?

My personal motto: “There are no shortcuts in life. Always work hard.” This philosophy guides me in everything I do, reminding me that true success comes from dedication, perseverance, and effort.

What have you learned recently that you hope the other ladies can take back?

Recently, I’ve learned a valuable lesson that I hope all women can take to heart: it’s never too late to chase your dreams. No matter your age or circumstances, there’s always an opportunity to pursue what sets your soul on fire. Whether it’s starting a new career, launching a business, or following a passion project, the only limits are the ones we place on ourselves. So, let go of any doubts or fears, and embrace the journey ahead with courage and determination. Remember, your dreams are worth chasing, no matter when you start.

How do you think you can help ladies to feel confident and empowered?

I believe that helping ladies feel confident and empowered starts with providing them with the support, resources, and encouragement they need to recognize their own worth and capabilities. One way to achieve this is by fostering a culture of mentorship and peer support, where women can learn from each other’s experiences, share advice, and celebrate achievements. Additionally, offering opportunities for skills development, leadership training, and personal growth can empower women to pursue their goals with confidence. By creating a supportive environment that values diversity, inclusivity, and equality, we can inspire and uplift women to embrace their strengths, voice their ideas, and achieve success on their own terms.

What is one thing you are grateful for?

One thing I’m incredibly grateful for is Elena, my business partner. Her unwavering dedication, passion, and expertise have been invaluable assets to our venture. With her by my side, we’ve navigated challenges, celebrated successes, and built something truly remarkable together. Elena’s commitment to our shared vision, coupled with her creativity and resilience, inspires me daily and reminds me of the power of collaboration and friendship in achieving our goals. I am truly fortunate to have her as a partner, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to embark on this journey together.

Let us know more about what you do!

The Immigration People (TIP) is an immigration agency renowned for assisting foreigners in sinking their roots in Singapore. With over three decades of collective experience in immigration consultancy, we offer services ranging from Permanent Residence (PR) applications to various schemes for foreign individuals, students, artistic talents, and global investors.

You may also find us featured on MoneyFM 89.3, Vulcan Post, CNA938, and SME Magazine Asia.

Connect with The Immigration People

Website: https://www.tip.com.sg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theimmigrationpeople
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theimmigrationpeople
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-immigration-people
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theimmigrationpeople/featured
Telegram: https://t.me//migratingtosingapore

Are you a Fempreneur too?

Connect with us – we’d love to feature you! Say hi to us at hello@theladiescue.com or reach out to us via our social media.