Was being an intern in the fashion and beauty industry really as cutthroat as one might think?
Being an unpaid LVMH intern several years ago really was a test of endurance and dedication, pushing me beyond my comfort zones yet proving immensely fulfilling. The interns definitely cried in the bathrooms. However the start of this journey not only reaffirmed my love for the field but also helped me build meaningful connections, enriching my professional and personal life in ways I hadn't anticipated.
Did growing up with Singaporean-Chinese roots impact your career and personal journeys?
Certainly, growing up with Singaporean-Chinese roots while being deeply rooted in London's vibrant culture profoundly shaped both my personal and professional trajectories. My heritage infused me with a rich tapestry of values, blending the disciplined work ethic and communal spirit of my Singaporean heritage with the creative and pioneering spirit I embraced in London. This unique blend has guided me in navigating diverse cultural landscapes, allowing me to forge strong relationships and approach challenges with a multifaceted perspective that values both innovation and tradition. Professionally, it inspired me to build bridges between varied cultures in my work, striving for inclusivity and understanding in every project I undertake. Personally, it has made me a passionate advocate for diversity, keenly aware of the richness that different cultures bring to every shared experience.
Are there any entrepreneurs you look up to?
There are a particularly two who spring to mind, both of course, female pioneers in tech.
Whitney Wolfe Herd - co-founder of Tinder and founder of Bumble. She revolutionised the dating app industry by empowering women to make the first move, showcasing the power of female-led innovation in technology.
Natalie Massenet - Founder of Net-a-Porter. Natalie revolutionised luxury fashion retail with Net-a-Porter, demonstrating foresight into the digital shopping era and setting a high standard for online consumer experiences.
Do you have any tips for hiring and retaining talent?
For those trying to break into the industry, I find immense joy in mentoring; it's a rewarding experience that helps nurture emerging talent and ensures we're always welcoming fresh, hungry voices. My advice for hiring and retaining talent revolves around creating opportunities for growth, fostering an inclusive environment, and actively supporting personal and professional development. This approach not only attracts diverse talent but also encourages them to stay, grow, and thrive within the company.
What is the one task you always do yourself and the task you always recommend outsourcing?
I always take a hands-on approach to tasks that play to my core strengths, such as building relationships and generating creative idea—these elements are crucial to my vision and leadership style. For areas outside my expertise, such as full stack tech development or financial analysis, I 100% advocate for outsourcing to specialists!
What does a day in your life typically look like?
The house wakes up at 7am. My husband starts breakfast for our daughters, whilst I get ready to tackle another day where my worlds of tech entrepreneurship and beauty collide. Breakfast is a whirlwind followed by plaiting hair, a rush to get shoes on the right feet, and then running out the door to drop the kids off at nursery and school. This part of my day is a blend of chaos and love, setting the tone for the shift to my role as a full-time working founder. No day is the same but it‘s generally an assortment of meetings, both in-person and online. In the beauty industry there is always a plethora of events to attend as well. I do prioritise 2-3 hours each week for Reformer Pilates for my own mental health. For the majority of the week I always try to be home for pick-up and dinner, to be present with my girls. I, along with many others, am living proof that you can juggle a career and a family, even though it's far from the poetic harmony some imagine. It's about making it work, day by day, and honestly, I wouldn't have it any other way.
