I did my overseas internship in 2012 during my final year of the Diploma in Hospitality and Tourism Management at Temasek Polytechnic. I was posted to China under the Fairmont Hotel Group, where we received training in specialty coffee, chinese tea making, and cocktails. That was where I first developed an interest in coffee making.

Throughout university and after graduation, I worked with various café chains, honing my latte art skills and gaining insights into café operations and business management. These experiences, along with the constant support from my parents, inspired me to start my own F&B venture.

In addition, I’ve always had a love for cooking and enjoy curating menus for different events. I like working in a dynamic setting where creativity and hospitality come together to create memorable experiences.

I think the biggest turning point was when I had to manage staff who were much older than me. It taught me how to be assertive and confident in what I was doing. Especially in the kitchen — it’s tough to earn respect if you don’t know how to cook. So I picked up culinary skills on the job, working 12-hour days to learn everything I could.

I’m inspired by people around me who are starting their own ventures and choosing to do things out of the norm.

What excites me most about this industry is the people. We meet individuals from all walks of life every day. In the café, I love chatting with tourists who stop by during their travels through Singapore. Some even return during different seasons, bringing little gifts from around the world. This industry truly connects you with people, and it’s always inspiring to hear their stories.

Be authentic.

I enjoy editing the photos I’ve taken during my travels or family portraits. I also like to unwind by watching netflix at home.

Trust their own abilities and embrace their uniqueness.

I’m truly thankful for my parents, who have supported me wholeheartedly in every step of my journey.

Be bold, if you have a vision, pursue it with determination, but always stay grounded and realistic.

I’ve recently learned the importance of balancing passion with business. It’s crucial not to overwork or push yourself to burnout, because if that happens, you risk losing the very passion that drove you in the first place.