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 Celine Ventalon (Émer)
Fempreneurs Celine Ventalon
Tell us a little about yourself. What is your business/ brand about?
My name is Céline Ventalon, and I am the founder of Émer, a pioneering brand in menstrual health and sustainability in Southeast Asia. With over 18 years of experience living in Asia, I have successfully blended my expertise in business development and cross-cultural collaborations to create innovative solutions for feminine hygiene. My journey in the lingerie industry began early in my career, and it has been deeply shaped by my passion for women’s health and well-being.
What got you started on your business?
The idea behind Émer came from recognising a gap in the market for eco-friendly and innovative solutions for menstrual health. I wanted to create a product that not only supports and empowers women in their daily lives but also contributes positively to the environment. My goal was to offer a sustainable alternative to traditional menstrual products that combines comfort, style, and health benefits.
Before you started your business, what did you do on a full-time basis?
Before launching Émer, I was involved in various entrepreneurial ventures, including running a jewellery company (Loani Limited) and working as a commercial agent for Chantelle and Passionata. These roles provided me with deep insights into the luxury lingerie market and honed my skills in business management and brand development.
What were some difficulties you faced in your life and how did you overcome them?
Like many entrepreneurs, I faced challenges such as balancing family life with business demands and navigating uncharted territories in product innovation. I overcame these by learning from my mistakes, being patient, leveraging my business expertise, and believing in myself. For example, transitioning from the jewellery business to launching a sustainable menstrual health brand required a significant mindset shift, but it was driven by my commitment to making a positive impact on women’s health and the planet for the next generations.
Fempreneur Celine Ventalon
Who inspires you?
I am inspired by strong, resilient women who, despite facing numerous challenges, continue to lead, innovate, and create positive change in their communities. Women like Michelle Obama, Serena Williams, Margaret Thatcher, and Greta Thunberg, exemplify the courage and determination I strive to embody in my journey.
What excites you most about your industry?
I am excited about the endless opportunities to innovate in the feminine hygiene industry, particularly by introducing sustainable solutions that are healthier for women and protect the environment. Collaborating with Guardian Singapore’s top health and beauty retailer to feature Émer in 60 stores nationwide will enhance accessibility and empower more women to make eco-friendly choices across Southeast Asia.
What is your vision / personal motto?
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu. This motto has guided me through the creation of Émer, reminding me that every small action contributes to the greater good.
Émer Products
What have you learned recently that you hope the other ladies can take back?
Recently, I have learned the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. It’s a lesson in perseverance that I believe every woman should embrace. Understanding that setbacks are part of the journey can empower women to stay committed to their goals and dreams.
What do you do in your free time as self care? How do you unwind?
In my free time, I enjoy the simple things in life—being surrounded by my kids and pets, going shopping with my daughter, watching TV with the kids, having coffee, and playing cards. I also love enjoying cocktails with my friends and going out. I am passionate about sports cars and enjoy driving mine whenever I can on Vietnamese roads. In fact, I was the first to organise a road trip from Saigon to Hanoi for the Formula 1 GP in Hanoi before COVID-19 hit in 2020. These activities help me relax, recharge, and maintain a healthy balance between my personal and professional life.
How do you think you can help ladies to feel confident and empowered?
Through Émer, I aim to provide women with products that make them feel comfortable, confident, and empowered in their everyday lives. By offering sustainable, high-quality menstrual health solutions, I hope to inspire women to take charge of their menstrual health and well-being.
Émer Brand Logo
What is one thing you are grateful for?
I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of my team, family, and community that encouraged me to never give up and stay positive. Their encouragement and dedication have been instrumental in bringing Émer to life and continuing our mission to empower women despite norms, societal taboos, and the conservative community.
Connect with Celine Ventalon (Émer)
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emerperiodunderwearvn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopemer
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emerperiodunderwear
Lazada: https://www.lazada.sg/shop/emer-singapore
Shopee: https://shopee.sg/shop/1197254539
Robinsons Online: https://www.robinsons.com.sg/collections/emer
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.
Read TLC x Fempreneur Series:
- Janet Ng, The Red Wedding (Singapore)
- Margaret Wu, For Beloved One (Singapore)
- Maddy Barber, Madly Gems (Singapore)
- Dr. Menka Gupta, Nutra Nourish (Singapore)
- Vikki Tear, SoyCraft (Singapore)
- Ezza Yusof, 2morrow Official (Malaysia)
- Julie Yim, Lilin+Co (Malaysia)
- Zairin Azman, UMMA (Malaysia)
- Liza Morales, Ecotecture Design Studio (Philippines)
- Lily Pham, Asiawide Business Consulting and Trading (Vietnam)
- Elke Pascoe, LittleOak (Australia)