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 Lily Li (fibro®)
TLC x Fempreneurs Series: Lily Li (fibro®)
Tell us a little about yourself. What is your business/ brand about?
Graduated from Cornell University, majoring in Food Science. Internationally certified Whole Food Plant-Based Nutritionist (WFPB). Studied under Dr. T. Colin Campbell, a well-known nutritionist worldwide. Over 10 years of studying/working experience in the United States, Denmark, Singapore, and other countries. Representative speaker for NGOs at the United Nations Climate Change Conference. Former employee of the top 3 organic food companies in the United States, Whole Foods & Trader Joe’s. International holistic health coach. Commercial judge for the iSEE Award Global Food Innovation Award.
What got you started on your business?
It partly started with my yoga practice, every time I went to yoga class, especially during lunchtime or after work, I was always distressed by what to eat. It is suggested not to eat too full or on an empty stomach, so I wanted to have something quick, healthy, and full-filling but not too heavy on the digestive system.
As a nutritionist, I know the importance of fiber. It is good for our digestive health, preventing constipation, helping control appetite, slowing down the absorption of sugar, and helps prevent spikes in blood glucose levels after meals, especially for people with diabetes or at risk of developing the condition.
Fiber is like comfort food for the colon. Our good gut bacteria don’t just digest fiber, they thrive on it. Bacteria make short-chain fatty acids with the fiber that can then be absorbed from the colon into our bloodstreams, circulate throughout our bodies, and even end up in our brains.
Fempreneur Lily Li
Before you started your business, what did you do on a full-time basis?
I worked with clients to achieve their health goals, assessing individual dietary needs and providing advice and guidance on how to improve their diets to achieve optimal health. I also did workshops to educate people about healthy eating habits, especially whole foods and plant-based diets.
What were some difficulties you faced in your life and how did you overcome them?
Growing a business can consume a lot of time and energy, neglecting personal relationships. I learn to prioritize self-care and establish boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance through yoga and meditation.
Who inspires you?
My mum. She is already 60 years old, but she is very active and stays young from within. My mum also encouraged me a lot to pursue my own dream, nurturing my self-esteem and confidence by offering unconditional loving and always believing in me. She also values education and provides me with financial support me to pursue my academic aspirations.
What excites you most about your industry?
People are becoming increasingly mindful of the connection between diets, lifestyle, and overall well-being, leading to a greater demand for nutritious, natural, and sustainably sourced food options. At the same time, advancements in technology and food science are driving innovation in the health food industry. We can develop products with great taste, value, and convenience without compromising nutritious value.
What is your vision / personal motto?
We eat to live, but not live to eat.
fibro® Products
What have you learned recently that you hope the other ladies can take back?
Embrace your uniqueness, do not be afraid to be yourself, and express how you truly feel with your loved ones. You are enough just as you are. You do not need to prove your worth to anyone else. Embrace your flaws and love yourself unconditionally. Self-care is not selfish, its essential for maintaining balance, happiness, and resilience.
What do you do in your free time as self care? How do you unwind?
Yoga. It helps me strengthen muscles, deepen my breaths, and reduce stress levels. I feel calm and relaxed after practice. Yoga also encourages present-moment awareness and mindfulness. I feel it can improve mental clarity, concentration, and better sleep.
How do you think you can help ladies to feel confident and empowered?
We hold events and workshops monthly to help women feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of being judged. I hope to create supportive networks and communities where women can connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and offer mutual support. Foster an environment of collaboration, rather than competition.
fibro® Brand Logo
What is one thing you are grateful for?
I am grateful for my health. It’s a precious gift and should not be taken for granted.
Let us know more about what you do!
fibro® is designed specifically for Asians with hectic lifestyle, providing a nutritional dietary solution that makes living a healthy lifestyle effortless and enjoyable.
Connect with fibro®
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fibroofficial
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)