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{Interview #12}: Doreen Tan – Textile and Apparel Industry Expert

Doreen Tan is the Chief Executive of Textile and Fashion Industry Training Centre (TaF.tc), Asia’s leading training provider for the textile and fashion industry. Her career has spanned across the private sector, academia and training as well as involvement in government agencies, benefitting individuals and enterprises both at the national and regional levels. She has trained executives from companies such as Club21 (S) Pte Ltd, LVMH Asia Pacific Talent Development Centre and Chanel Asia Pacific Pte Limited, and as Merchandise Director at AMC (known as Target today) she managed a sales volume of US$87 million.

 As an International Consultant with International Trade Centre (UNCTAD/WTO) of United Nations, Doreen has completed various projects in the Textiles and Clothing Industry in Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mauritius, Romania, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Her husband works in the logistic industry and they have three children aged 16 to 21 years old.

 This initiative is part of our 101 Paths to Success series of interviews to gain insight into how successful people came to do what they are doing, and enlighten parents that there is a vast array of occupations for our children to discover. Hopefully it might spark an interest in our children and youths to start their journey of discerning their life’s path.

Doreen Tan

Your qualifications
MBA (Macquarie Graduate School of Management – Sydney)

 Describe your job
As the CE of TaF.tc, I am actively involved in initiatives that enhance the industry’s capabilities and capacity development. Since 2004, I have conducted training to executives of MNCs and local companies in the various segments of the fashion industry both locally and globally. Under my leadership, TaF.tc developed the Workforce Skills Qualification Textile and Fashion Industry Framework that covers over 70 competency standards and assessments for the textile and fashion industry. We provide relevant courses for people interested in fashion design, footwear construction and merchandising, from the basics of drafting and sewing to setting up their own store.

Tell us about your career path.
I started working in the textile and apparel industry doing global sourcing for US retailers for 10 years and was promoted to Merchandise Director at the age of 26. I went on to complete an MBA in Sydney and joined Temasek Polytechnic as one of the pioneers to establish the Apparel Design and Merchandising diploma programme. During my 7 years in TP, I was also teaching in TaF.tc and worked part time in Nike and Ghim Li as a trainer and consultant.

 How did you find your passion?
When I first joined AMC, my boss was unwilling to teach me everything, especially on costing. There wasn’t the internet then, thus I learned from my suppliers who are owners of garment factories and fabric mills. I used to spend hours learning from these owners and took the initiative to organise visits to their factories, mills, YKK zipper plants and button manufacturers. The manufacturing world never fails to fascinate me. I traveled around the US to meet customers and also traveled widely regionally to source for more manufacturers as factory owners venture to different countries with lower costs.

 It was an eye opener as I realized that decisions made by buyers and merchandisers often impact the product process and thus the cost and quality. The most unglamorous work is done in the factories where thousands of workers toil for hours so that beautiful clothes can be churned out. These workers will find work to earn a decent salary to bring home to their families. I was disturbed by the extremely low wage of USD58 per month until I visited the villages with some Korean missionaries where I discovered that the farmers earned much less! It changed my perspective, and whether wages are high or low is quite relative.

 Which aspect of your job gives you the most satisfaction?
I get great satisfaction from seeing people picking up a new skill and finding a job.

 What does success mean to you?
Doing something that you love and believe in.

 Does this job enable good work life balance?
The fashion industry is notorious for long working hours. I remember when I first joined the industry, I used to work till 1 or 2 am doing filing. When I reached executive position, I used to stay up late to call my customers in US which is a different time zone. We only have one life and we do the best we can in this one life. If you are passionate about what you are doing it is hard to draw the line. What is personal and what is official? What is life?

 You must be incredibly busy. How do you avoid being burnt out?
I take short vacations, rest and recharge by doing nothing on weekends. I spend time with my loved ones, eat, chill, laugh at mistakes, exercise (although I could do more!), read, attend seminars and workshops.

 Are you involved in any voluntary work?
I am involved with Don Bosco Phnom Penh. TaF.tc orders cookies regularly from ASPN and collaborates with PLOVE to conduct classes for autistic adults.

 One piece of advice to parents
It is important to teach them values and to allow them to learn as many things in life as possible, especially in music and sports. Make sure your children know that you love them, teach them to be independent, and ensure they don’t grow up with an “entitled” mentality. Inculcate a good reading habit and travel as a family to different countries.

 One piece of advice to teens
Give yourself many options by studying hard and getting good academic results. Work part time during school holidays and pick up as many sports and musical instruments as possible. Travel to different countries to open your mind and do volunteer work in third world countries. Allocate time for your family and learn to speak some dialects.

 To be a good merchandiser, you must have an eye for detail, very high level of commitment, be reasonably good in maths, management as well as coordination skills.

 {Interviews} 101 Paths to Success

#1 – Dr Karen Crasta Scientist Associate Prof at the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine

#2 – Jeremiah Choy Creative Director Sing50 Mega concert at the National Stadium
#3 – Elaine Yeo Musician Singapore Symphony Orchestra
#4 – Chong Ee Jay Cyber Wellness Educator TOUCH Cyber Wellness
#5 – Professor Tan Huay Cheem Cardiologist Director of National University Heart Centre
#6 – Ruth Wan Children’s Book Author Timmy and Tammy series
#7 – Andrea Decruz Media Personality Owner of CINQ Salon & Belmont Flora
#8 – Ebelle Chong Dance Practitioner / Choreographer SSLD:7 in R.e.P 2015
#9 – Dr Phillip A. Towndrow Research Scientist Centre for Research in Pedagogy and Practice
#10 – Christine Teo Mental Health Social Worker Founder of Generation 414
#11 – Peter Draw Artist / Cartoonist 4 Guinness World Record holder

~ www.mummyweeblog.com – a blog on parenting 6 kids in Singapore ~

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{Interview 11}: Peter Draw – Artist

Peter Zhuo, better known as Peter Draw, 31, is an artist who has 4 Guinness World Records under his belt. Largest Caricature, 2007, Largest Art Lesson, 2010, Longest Drawing, 2014 and Longest Drawing by Individual, 2014. He has also been awarded JCI’s Singapore Outstanding Young Persons of Singapore for contributions to Children, World Peace & Human Rights, 2008.

This initiative is part of our 101 Paths to Success series of interviews to gain insight into how successful people came to do what they are doing, and enlighten parents that there is a vast array of occupations for our children to discover. Hopefully it might spark an interest in our children and youths to start their journey of discerning their life’s path.

Peter Draw

Describe your typical work day

I am always figuring out how to showcase life’s most important values and lessons in the cutest, simplest way. I start each day with a sip of coffee.

Tell us about your career path

Growing up, drawing was the only thing I loved and helping people was the most meaningful thing I learnt. I believe everything changes but nothing really changes, unless we start doing what we do with love. My entire career path has been to use art to protect children, especially children who cannot protect themselves.

I was very shy, but after my grandfather passed away when I was 16, I found the courage to put my shyness aside and start taking little steps to pursue my dreams.

How did you find your passion?

I fell in love with drawing when I was 3. Even today, I feel a sense of happiness when I see children drawing, and happier when I am drawing.

Which aspect of your job gives you the most satisfaction?

When a child comes up to me and lets me know that what I have done has fulfilled their childhood – with happy hopes.

There have been many incidents which gave me immense satisfaction.

The time when a little boy in Sichuan broke his only sweet into 2 and gave me one before he returned home. He wrote me a letter and secretly put it into my bag. I only found out when I was on the plane home to Singapore.

The time when a girl showed me her jotter book filled with fashion design drawings, all in black and white. She told me she had never owned any colour pencils or crayons before. Knowing it was her birthday (she is the daughter of our local driver arranged by the local ministry of Foreign Affairs), and Yangon was the last city for our tour, I took out over 100 boxes of Faber Castell crayons and gave it to her and told her “Happy Birthday”, and she cried.

The next day, on our way to the airport, her father gave me a gift – a new jotter book filled with more fashion design drawings. This time, all filled with colours, including the words. On the last page, she wrote that she hoped that one day, I would wear one of her designs. I was half happy and half confused, because all her fashion designs are sexy dresses.

The time in South Africa when a group of children waited for me at the airport to thank me and see me off with their school Principal. My flight was at night, but they came in the morning. Luckily, a fellow Singaporean recognised the name on their signboard and took the pictures which they had drawn. I chatted with one of the kids on the phone and thanked them.

The time in Saitama, Japan, when a pair of playful twin girls sat down quietly with me and started folding paper cranes which we later brought to children in Fukushima.

What does success mean to you?

Sometimes, people ask me if it’s worthwhile dedicating my entire life to pursue an ambitious dream to benefit other people. The way I see it, if at the end of my life, I fail, the loss is personal. If I succeed, children for many generations will continue to benefit long after I’m gone. To me, it’s an obvious choice. Just having the chance to do what I love and serve more children along the way, I am already contented.

You must be incredibly busy. How do you avoid being burnt out?

Even though I work very hard, I don’t think I’m incredibly busy. I hope that young people don’t get the wrong idea and focus on keeping themselves busy to feel successful. Sometimes we can’t avoid getting burnt out, but after resting, just get back on your feet and keep going. If it is something you love, how hard can it be?

Are you involved in any voluntary work?

I try to help as much as I can. Next month, I am starting to teach art to a group of elderly, and will be working with them to draw portraits for the younger ones in their neighbourhood. I have children who call themselves “Little Draws” – little versions of Peter Draw, and now we will have our first “Senior Draws” 🙂

One piece of advice to parents

Whatever you do with and for your children, do it with love.

One piece of advice to teens

Sometimes, we don’t realise the true value of a moment until it becomes a memory. As a child, I promised my grandfather I would be a great artist and make beautiful works of art to show him. I can’t do that now as he has passed away. Thus, never take anything in life for granted, especially human relationships. Hesitate and you may lose the chance forever.

To be a good artist…

If you have created a work that you and others keep falling in love with, you have made a great work of art. Make something people love, and you can only do that with love.


{Interviews} 101 Paths to Success

#1 – Dr Karen Crasta Scientist Associate Prof at the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine


#2 – Jeremiah Choy Creative Director Sing50 Mega concert at the National Stadium

#3 – Elaine Yeo Musician Singapore Symphony Orchestra

#4 – Chong Ee Jay Cyber Wellness Educator TOUCH Cyber Wellness

#5 – Professor Tan Huay Cheem Cardiologist Director of National University Heart Centre

#6 – Ruth Wan Children’s Book Author Timmy and Tammy series

#7 – Andrea Decruz Media Personality Owner of CINQ Salon & Belmont Flora

#8 – Ebelle Chong Dance Practitioner / Choreographer SSLD:7 in R.e.P 2015

#9 – Dr Phillip A. Towndrow Research Scientist Centre for Research in Pedagogy and Practice

#10 – Christine Teo Mental Health Social Worker Founder of Generation 414


~ www.mummyweeblog.com – a blog on parenting 6 kids in Singapore ~
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{Interview #9}: Dr. Phillip A. Towndrow – Research Scientist

Dr. Phillip A. Towndrow, 59, is a Senior Research Scientist at the Centre for Research in Pedagogy and Practice, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. He is married to an administrative assistant in a foreign embassy in Singapore and they have two children aged 23 and 12.

This initiative is part of our 101 Paths to Success series of interviews to gain insight into how successful people came to do what they are doing, and enlighten parents that there is a vast array of occupations for our children to discover. Hopefully it might spark an interest in our children and youths to start their journey of discerning their life’s path.

Your qualifications

BA (Hons.) Philosophy, University of Essex (UK)
MA Applied Linguistics, University of Surrey (UK)
Ed. D., Durham University (UK)

Dr. Phillip A. Towndrow

Describe your job
I work in an educational research centre. I plan, organise and manage studies in how teachers teach and how students use new media in their learning. A large part of my job involves working with teachers and other educators to design lesson tasks and activities around particular topic and thematic curriculum areas. I’m also expected to publish my work in academic journals and tell others about my research findings through classes, seminars and conference presentations.
Tell us about your career path
I started teaching English as a foreign language. I then moved into the planning and supervision of a large computer assisted language learning project at a university in the Arabian Gulf. It was at that time that I did my Masters and I realised I had an interest in learning and academic writing. In the effort to progress in my work and studies, I moved to Singapore to do a Doctorate in Education. By the time I finished my coursework, I already had a number of publications under my belt. I continued writing and researching on various projects and used (as much as I could) all opportunities to meet people and collaborate.
How did you find your passion / area of interest?
It was unplanned and, in part, opportunistic. I’ve always liked learning new things and explaining concepts to others. My first degree was in Philosophy and that is where I learnt through my excellent professors and teachers at the University of Essex to craft arguments and write concisely, logically and convincingly. I remember writing a 500-word essay on Plato and getting an A+. That came as a bit of a surprise (I’d always been an average learner in school) but I decided to continue with Philosophy because I was good at it. My professors encouraged me and that’s how my ‘love of learning’ began. I have been passionate about trying to understand things all of my life.
Which aspect of your job gives you the most satisfaction?
I derive great pleasure in making things and helping others express their ideas. Ultimtely, I want to make sense of life and the world around. My greatest joy comes from shining light in parts where darkness, ignorance and injustice prevent people from doing all that they can to make the world a better place to live and work.
What does success mean to you?
I guess that for many, success in what they do is linked to their material achievements and performances. Of course, it’s important for me to have citations, sell books and give many talks etc.. But, for me, I feel I’ve been succesful when my students, colleagues and the people I meet go out of their way to say, “Thank you. You made me think differently. I now understand (X) better.”
How do you balance your time between work and family?
Well, my starting point is to draw a line between paid work and the rest of my life. I strive to put God first in everything and then family comes next. That said, I can’t stop thinking about my work. There’s always an idea that pops into my head. I’m constantly writing and rewriting sentences in my mind, in notebooks and on my computers. Anything and everything I look at, eat or hear can spark an idea in my mind. So, I have to be very careful. At least I know I can’t be at or in work all of the time!
You must be incredibly busy. How do you avoid being burnt out?
Prioritisation is key and I must set limits. I have multiple ‘to do’ lists on all of my gadgets and devices. I set myself a number of things to do each day. I try not to leave things to the last moment and to give myself a lot of lead time when it’s possible. If I have a large job, for example, read a 250-page thesis, write a book or plan lessons, I break the task down into small parts. Read a chapter a day or write a page a day, and so on. I know there will be unplanned events, contingencies to deal with and other urgent things to complete but I try to keep focussed on what’s important and not on what other people say is necessary.
When I’m feeling overwhelmed or burdened, I know that work–life balance issues are looming. For me, the solution or remedy is to back off and go to a quiet place to pray and reprioritise. Ultimately, it’s always important for me to slow down and reflect on what I’m doing and why.
Are you involved in any charity work?
No. But I do some unpaid service work to the community through talks, meetings, tutorials and writing.
One piece of advice to parents
Your children are a precious gift from God. Find all ways possible to learn from them who you are and what it means to live a full and meaningful life.
One piece of advice to teens
Listen to and obey your parents. When you feel like running to your room to hide from or avoid a situation, turn around and instead give your Mum or Dad a big hug and kiss. It will change your perceptions.
To be a good research scientist, it takes someone… who has a clear and precise vision of a transformed world through education and carespassionately about the quality of the work they do for themselves and others.

{Interviews} 101 Paths to Success

#1 – Dr Karen Crasta Scientist Associate Prof at the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine

#2 – Jeremiah Choy Creative Director Sing50 Mega concert at the National Stadium
#3 – Elaine Yeo Musician Singapore Symphony Orchestra
#4 – Chong Ee Jay Cyber Wellness Educator TOUCH Cyber Wellness
#5 – Professor Tan Huay Cheem Cardiologist Director of National University Heart Centre
#6 – Ruth Wan Children’s Book Author Timmy and Tammy series
#7 – Andrea Decruz Media Personality Owner of CINQ Salon & Belmont Flora
#8 – Ebelle Chong Dance Practitioner / Choreographer SSLD:7 in R.e.P 2015

~ www.mummweeblog.com – a blog on parenting 6 kids in Singapore ~
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{Interview #8} Ebelle Chong – Dance Practitioner / Choreographer

Ebelle Chong, 39, is a Dance Practitioner and Educator. She was part of a wave of contemporary dance artists who shook up the local dance scene in the early 2000’s. Her latest work SSLD:7 premiered in R.e.P 2015 to great critical acclaim. Ebelle’s choreography for CHIJ Katong Primary School bagged the Certificate of Distinction at the Singapore Youth Festival 2014. Her husband is in Corporate Communications and they have 3 boys aged 8, 4 and 2.


This initiative is part of our 101 Paths to Success series of interviews to gain insight into how successful people came to do what they are doing, and enlighten parents that there is a vast array of occupations for our children to discover. Hopefully it might spark an interest in our children and youths to start their journey of discerning their life’s path.

Your qualifications

Bachelor of Business Administration, NUS
Diploma in Contemporary Dance, LASALLE-SIA College of the Arts

Photo credit: Jingkai (SSLD:7 premiered in R.e.P 2015, Raw Moves)

Describe your job
As a Dance Practitioner, I often collaborate with independent artists from different genres, or work with a Company to create a new piece of work. Most often for theatre pieces, I collaborate with a Music / Sound Composer, Lighting Designer and the Performers. Rehearsals are always work-in-progress where we try new material and see what works or doesn’t.

As an Educator, I go to schools to teach contemporary dance techniques and choreograph the Dance CCA. I also teach a program called Program for Active Learning (PAL) for Primary 1 students using dance to aid in learning of creation and cooperation.

Tell us about your career path
After obtaining my BBA, I went to LASALLE-SIA to pursue dance. Upon graduating in 2001, I joined TOUCH entertainment and was part of the Magic of Love production team. I was the production manager, choreographer and dancer all rolled into one. Then in 2003-04, I was the General Manager, Production Manager and Dancer for a local dance company Ah Hock and Peng Yu (AHPY).

In 2005, some friends and I, all independent artists from different genres formed Collective MAYHEM. In 2008, my work “w a l l s” was commissioned by the Singapore Festival of the Arts and I performed a solo title “Mama:Machine”. I took a hiatus of 7 years to take care of my kids and this year, I premiered my new work SSLD:7 at R.e.P 2015 by Raw Moves. Most recently, I have finished co-creating Open Homes-SIFA in September 2015.

How did you find your passion?
Interestingly, it was when I helped out backstage at a LASALLE-SIA Dance Graduation show. I saw what the dancers / choreographers did and was moved by what they had to say through their dance. That’s when I decided, “Hey, if they can do this, so can I!”

Which aspect of your job gives you the most satisfaction?
Creation 🙂

How do you find time to balance work and family?
It’s tough but I try to be away only 3 times a week. With that in mind, I plan my projects so that when one finishes, there is enough leeway to prepare for the next. I am very aware that I am also a mum and a wife, not just a dance practitioner / educator.

What does success mean to you?
When I have inspired or at least facilitated a thought process either through my teachers or creations.

Are you involved in any voluntary work?
Currently I am volunteering in World Dance Alliance Singapore as the Conference Secretary in organising Asia Pacific Dance Bridge: Connectivity Through Dance, which was held in Singapore on 16-18 October 2015.

One advice to parents
Let your child try it out for themselves because only they will know if this is what they really want.

One advice to teens
It is demanding being a dancer / choreographer, and you need to be strong mentally, emotionally and physically and just carry on. If possible, further your studies in dance as the lifespan of a dancer is quite short. There are many other areas in the industry where you can move on to, such as Arts Management, Dance Reviewer / Researcher / Academia etc.

To be a good dancer or choreographer, it takes someone with passion to press on, an open mind to learn more, and sensitivity to all that is around you to gain inspiration.

    {Interviews} 101 Paths to Success

    #1 – Dr Karen Crasta Scientist Associate Prof at the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine

    #2 – Jeremiah Choy Creative Director Sing50 Mega concert at the National Stadium
    #3 – Elaine Yeo Musician Singapore Symphony Orchestra
    #4 – Chong Ee Jay Cyber Wellness Educator TOUCH Cyber Wellness
    #5 – Professor Tan Huay Cheem Cardiologist Director of National University Heart Centre
    #6 – Ruth Wan Children’s Book Author Timmy and Tammy series
    #7 – Andrea Decruz Media Personality Owner of CINQ Salon & Belmont Flora
    ~ www.mummyweeblog.com – a blog on parenting 6 kids in Singapore ~

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    {Interview #7} Andrea Decruz – Media Personality

    Andrea Decruz, 41, is a Media Personality and owner of CINQ salon and Belmont Flora. She is married to Pierre Png, a leading Mediacorp Artiste.

    This initiative is part of our 101 Paths to Success series of interviews to gain insight into how successful people came to do what they are doing, and enlighten parents that there is a vast array of occupations for our children to discover. Hopefully it might spark an interest in our children and youths to start their journey of discerning their life’s path.

    Your qualifications
    Bachelor Degree in Clinical Psychology, First Class Honours

    Andrea Decruz @ CINQ

    Describe your job
    I run the behind the scenes work at both CINQ and Belmont, dealing with human resource as well as public relations matters.

    Tell us about your career path
    I returned to Singapore in 1998 after a year of working in the San Francisco County Jail to join a private practice as a psychologist in Mount Elizabeth Hospital. I was soon scouted by MediaCorp (TCS back then) to join them as a full time artiste. I left the industry after my health failed in 2002 and took a long sabbatical before joining forces with my two current partners at CINQ in 2006 till today.

    How did you find your passion?
    As a child, I had always loved to pretend-play by washing and styling my mum and sister’s hair! When I was asked to get involved in the beauty business, I jumped at the opportunity.


    Which aspect of your job gives you the most satisfaction?
    When I see our clients’ attitudes and emotions change as they walk out of the salon feeling like a million bucks especially when they walked in like they had the worst day ever.

    How do you rejuvenate yourself with your busy schedule?
    Sleep to me is very important. I need at least 7-8 hours of sleep to feel well equipped to begin my day. Once a week, I make it to Java Gaya for a detox lymphatic massage, and I make sure to get in a good 30 minutes of high cardio tebata workout three times a week.

    What does success mean to you?
    Success to me means having built a dream, weathering the storms and knowing that you are still above water.

    Are you involved in any charity work?
    I sat on the board of Make A Wish Foundation for the past five years and continue to do my best to support the foundation as a volunteer.

    One piece of advice to parents
    Always support your kids’ dreams no matter how out-of-this-world they may sound. You never know – they might just turn out to be the next Mark Zuckerberg!

    One piece of advice to teens
    You will have plenty of time to figure out all the other issues later on in life. In your teens, all you need to concentrate on is school, because without a good education, you are nothing.


    {Interviews} 101 Paths to Success

    #1 – Dr Karen Crasta Scientist Associate Prof at the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine

    #2 – Jeremiah Choy Creative Director Sing50 Mega concert at the National Stadium
    #3 – Elaine Yeo Musician Singapore Symphony Orchestra
    #4 – Chong Ee Jay Cyber Wellness Educator TOUCH Cyber Wellness
    #5 – Professor Tan Huay Cheem Cardiologist Director of National University Heart Centre
    #6 – Ruth Wan Children’s Book Author Timmy and Tammy series


    ~ www.mummyweeblog.com – a blog on parenting 6 kids in Singapore ~
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    {Interview #6} Ruth Wan – Writer and Editor

    Ruth Wan is a Children’s Book Author and Managing Editor of Armour Publishing. She created the popular Timmy and Tammy series which was presented by President Tony Tan to Princess Charlotte as part of Singapore’s gift to the royal baby in 2015. Five Timmy and Tammy books were also selected for the SG50 Baby Jubilee Gift Pack which was given to all Singaporean babies born in 2015. She is in her late-30s and is married to a policeman. They have 3 children.


    This initiative is part of our 101 Paths to Success series of interviews to gain insight into how successful people came to do what they are doing, and enlighten parents that there is a vast array of occupations for our children to discover. Hopefully it might spark an interest in our children and youths to start their journey of discerning their life’s path.

    Your qualifications

    Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Studies

    Ruth Wan
    Describe your job

    In the morning, I go to the office and work with authors, illustrators, designers and other editors to produce books for the local market. These could be books on marriage, family and parenting. Or, they could be christian books or children’s books.

    As managing editor, I plan the publication schedule for Armour Publishing – I do this six months to a year in advance. This involves meeting up with potential authors to discuss book ideas, dealing with contracts and conceptualising book series.
    Tell us about your career path

    I worked in government for 7 years until I gave birth. Then, I sat around on maternity leave and decided to extend my leave. I ended up extending my leave for two-and-a-half years before returning, but insisting on a part-time basis only.

    I found it difficult to work part-time in a largely full-time environment. So I left the Civil Service to work for an award-winning graphic design firm that had a small publishing arm, called Epigram.

    When the publishing arm started growing, it eventually became its own entity, Epigram Books. I started as Editor in Epigram Books and became Managing Editor. Subsequently, I left to join Armour Publishing as Managing Editor and as I have the autonomy to decide what to write and publish, that’s where I started my own children’s series, Timmy and Tammy.

    How did you find your passion?

    I’ve always loved to read and write. I write better than I speak. I also need to read something in order to fully understand it. I have always had editorial instincts. I spend a lot of time correcting my own speech, and the speech of others, to make the words more grammatical. It drives my husband crazy. I used to think I was weird, but then I found editorial soul mates in my other editor friends. There are more of us in this world!

    When I started having kids, I found myself very passionate about teaching them how to read. I realised that my mum had taught me early on how to read, and I wanted to do that for my kids too. I taught all my kids how to read fluently by the time they were four.

    I did not use any formula, curriculum or method. I just read to them and used my own make-up-on-the-spot method. When I was teaching my youngest daughter to read, I looked around and realised there were no readers in the market with local icons or landscapes.

    I started writing a series that would address this gap – and I’m amazed how well the series is doing. I guess there are a lot of parents out there who want localised preschool books.

    This makes sense because if children see landscapes and items they are familiar with, like the MRT, the Singapore Flyer and Changi airport, they are more likely to be engaged with the text and enjoy what they’re reading. This makes teaching them how to read enjoyable and fun.

    Which aspect of your job gives you the most satisfaction?

    I really love designing book covers! And I love that moment when you double click on what an illustrator has just sent in and your screen is suddenly covered with a beautiful full-colour illustration that is just so adorable!

    How do you find time to balance work and family?
    I chose to work part-time only, and go home in the afternoon. I spend time with my kids, hug them, and make sure they keep up with schoolwork. We try to go to the playground every other day, but only in the evenings when it’s cooler. There’s also piano practice.

    I try not to bring work home and have this rule that if I do bring work home, it should be in hard-copy and should be mainly something I need to read.

    What does success mean to you?

    Success means pleasing God in everything that I do. The Bible spells out God’s plan for our life – since He’s our Maker, He knows what’s best for us and I have found that when I follow Him, His priorities, His values, His ways, I am blessed.

    Are you involved in any volunteer work?

    I sing in Church.

    One advice to parents

    Let your children know that you love them, you support them, you are there to encourage and root for them. They are going to face all sorts of things with their friends, with their grades, with the world. They need to have your love to have the courage and strength to persevere, to stand up for what is right, to choose to be different and to study for their Chinese exams!

    To be a good writer, it takes someone… who has a reason to write and who believes in what he/she is doing.

    {Interviews} 101 Paths to Success

    #1 – Dr Karen Crasta Scientist Associate Prof at the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine


    #2 – Jeremiah Choy Creative Director Sing50 Mega concert at the National Stadium

    #3 – Elaine Yeo Musician Singapore Symphony Orchestra

    #4 – Chong Ee Jay Cyber Wellness Educator TOUCH Cyber Wellness

    #5 – Professor Tan Huay Cheem Cardiologist Director of National University Heart Centre


    ~ www.mummyweeblog.com – a blog on parenting 6 kids in Singapore ~

    Posted on

    {Interview #5} Professor Tan Huay Cheem – Cardiologist

    Professor Tan Huay Cheem, 52, is Senior Consultant at the department of Cardiology at National University Hospital (NUH). He is also Director of National University Heart Centre, Singapore (NUHCS), and Professor of Medicine at Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, NUS. He is a visiting professor to several hospitals in China and is an invited speaker to many international cardiology meetings. He is married to a locum G.P., who spends much of her time looking after their 11 year old daughter.
    This initiative is part of our 101 Paths to Success series of interviews to gain insight into how successful people came to do what they are doing, and enlighten parents that there is a vast array of occupations for our children to discover. Hopefully it might spark an interest in our children and youths to start their journey of discerning their life’s path.

    Your qualifications

    Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery MBBS (Singapore)
    Master of Medicine (Internal Medicine)
    Membership of Royal College of Physician (MRCP) United Kingdom
    Fellowship of American College of Cardiology (FACC)
    Describe your job

    I am a cardiologist, a heart specialist. Specifically, I am an interventional cardiologist who specialises in ‘unblocking’ patients’ ‘blocked heart arteries’ (coronary artery disease) from excessive cholesterol and fat deposits.

    I do so by inserting a balloon through the wrist or groin artery to access the heart (coronary) arteries. I would first dilate the arteries (which fractures and pushes the deposits against the side of the wall) with a balloon catheter and then implant a stent (which is either a metallic or ‘plastic’ scaffold) to prop the artery open. That way, it allows for restoration of blood flow to the heart which can relieve patient’s symptom (called angina pectoris) and prevent heart attack. The whole procedure is called percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

    PCI is a generally safe procedure with procedural complication rates of less than 2%. It can be really life-saving in patients with acute heart attacks. In these patients, their arteries are completely ‘choked off’ with no blood flow to the heart muscles by blood clot and fat deposuts; and by performing this procedure, the whole process of heart attack can be aborted.

    This job requires me to be on duty some days where I have to be on standby for a whole 24 hours to be activated whenever a patient is admitted with heart attack. This can be very tiring especially when there are many heart attack patients who are admitted on the same day; or when they come in the middle of the night which deprives you of your sleep. In choosing this profession, I have acknowledged that this will have to be my lifestyle. My wife and family accepts it.
    How did you find your passion/ area of interest?

    I have always wanted to be a doctor since young. I still remember writing about being one as a young primary school student. I must have been inspired by the doctors who cured me of my illnesses when I was young. These doctors had left an indelible impression on me. To me, the medical profession is a noble and respectable one. Having become a doctor, I realise that respect from our patients has to be earned and not demanded. It is my wish that all doctors will continue to place the interest of their patients before their own, and not be influenced by extraneous factors such as financial gains or others.  

    I have always thought that I would be an Obstetrician & Gynaecologist. This is because I topped the subject in my class. However something happened in my life that changed my initial plan. My mother, who was very close to me, had sudden death from a heart attack when I was serving my National Service as a medical officer. I found her collapsed in the bathroom on my return one day and started performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation on her till the ambulance arrived. She did not make it and died shortly after.

    It was a shocking experience for me and it changed my life completely. My mother was only 55 when she passed away. She was simply too young to have died! I then decided that I would take up Cardiology, and specifically interventional cardiology, so that I can make a difference to heart attack patients in future. Although I could not save my own mother, I hope to be able to save someone else’s parent or spouse. I found myself to have a knack for the field and made sure that I was well-trained in it to serve my calling. Having performed nearly 10,000 cardiac  procedures both locally and overseas over the last 20 years, I believe I have made an impact to many people’s lives.

    I have been working in NUH since my graduation 28 years ago. I still have many long term patients whom I had previously operated on, under my care. While I am definitely not the richest doctor around, I am very wealthy with the showers of gratitude and thanks which many of my patients bestow on me. That, to me, is the best gift.

    Professor Tan Huay Cheem
    Which aspect of your job gives you the most satisfaction?

    My job as an academic cardiologist encompasses 4 main areas of work, namely clinical service, teaching, research and administration. I derive tremendous satisfaction in all these areas.

    To be able to save someone’s life at the time when he or she needed you most gives me the most gratification. To be able to teach and train someone so well that he can treat his own patients competently is another satisfaction. To create new knowledge and to come out with new therapies to treat patients better is what I try to do in my research. And finally as a leader in the public institution, I help develop clinical programmes, manpower planning and participate in formulating public health policies, all of which are meaningful to me. What keeps me in the public sector, instead of going into private practice, is that I can be a member of Singapore’s public healthcare system which provides quality, accessible and cost effective care to the people of my country, regardless of their background.    
    What does success mean to you?

    I like the definition of success by American poet, Ralph Waldo Emerson:

    “To find the best in others; to give of oneself; to leave the world a bit better; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived- this is to have succeeded”

    I wish to be a blessing to someone every day, be it big or small. That is my definition of success. My work gives me the privilege to literally do that every day!

    I owe all that I have to God. I hope to be an Ambassador for Christ, to testify of His wondrous works through my work and life.
    Are you involved in any charity work?

    I volunteer my time with Singapore Heart Foundation, a voluntary welfare organization (VWO) that aims to promote heart health, prevent and reduce disability and death due to cardiovascular diseases and stroke among the public. I am the Secretary General for the organization and am actively involved in promoting health in schools and the community through programmes such as obesity management, exercise for life, Go Red For Women, and cardiac rehabilitation. We also raise funds to support needy patients for their expensive treatment in hospitals.
    One advice to parents

    Be a good role model to your child for much of what he/she becomes later in life is shaped by you.
    One advice to teens

    As you pursue your dreams in life, do not forget that much of what you have is owed to your parents and the society. Learn to count your blessings and be grateful.
    To be a cardiologist, it takes someone who is….. fully committed to the job with passion. Life-long continual learning is a prerequisite. You must also have three core values: empathy, compassion and effective communication skills. Take care of your patient like you would take care of your loved ones and do not allow financial gains to influence your judgement and management.
     

    {Interviews} 101 Paths to Success

    #1 – Dr Karen Crasta Scientist Associate Prof at the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine


    #2 – Jeremiah Choy Creative Director Sing50 Mega concert at the National Stadium

    #3 – Elaine Yeo Musician Singapore Symphony Orchestra

    #4 – Chong Ee Jay Cyber Wellness Educator TOUCH Cyber Wellness


    ~ www.mummyweeblog.com – a blog on parenting 6 kids in Singapore ~
    Posted on

    {Interview #4} Chong Ee Jay – Cyber Wellness Educator

    Chong Ee Jay, 36, is the Manager of TOUCH Cyber Wellness and Head of Volunteer Management of TOUCH community Services. He has conducted more than 300 cyber wellness workshops since 2007, reaching out to more than 15,000 parents, educators and youth workers in schools, corporations and the community.

    He represented TOUCH Cyber Wellness as recipient of the Singapore Youth Award in 2011 – the highest accolade for youth achievement awards in Singapore. He is a highly sought-after speaker and trainer in the area of cyber wellness. He is married to a fellow counsellor working with children, youths and parents in tackling cyber related concerns. She is currently studying her Masters in Counselling and they are expecting their first child.

    This initiative is part of our 101 Paths to Success series of interviews to gain insight into how successful people came to do what they are doing, and enlighten parents that there is a vast array of occupations for our children to discover. Hopefully it might spark an interest in our children and youths to start their journey of discerning their life’s path.

    Your qualifications:


    Bachelor in Engineering (NUS)
    Masters in Engineering (Bioengineering) NUS
    Certifications in Social work and Counselling

    Workshop for parents
    Describe your job: 

    I oversee the cyber wellness department in TOUCH, comprising of 12 full time staff which provides a holistic suite of programmes and services for children, youths, parents, practitioners, professionals and educators. 

    I conduct parents’ cyber wellness workshops to help parents be more aware of the current cyber trends as well as to impart practical tips and teach them how to manage and engage their children more effectively in this fast changing digital age.

    I also run training courses for educators and social service practitioners to empower them with practical diagnostic and intervention skill sets and domain knowledge as they work frontline in tackling cyber related issues such as gaming addiction and cyber bullying.

    Besides that, I’m involved in para-counselling and counsultation, working closely with individuals and families in overcoming challenges at the home front – such as parent–child relationship issues and young parents’ parenting concerns.
    How did you find your passion?

    Honestly, I never thought I would join the social service sector. It all started more than 12 years ago when I got “dragged” by my university friends to do volunteer work in Mendaki by providing tuition support for low income families’ children. After a few weeks I really enjoyed my time there interacting with their children and being able to encourage them and help them succeed in their studies.

    Back then, I already noticed that kids were punching away on their parents’ mobile phones (non smartphones) monochrome screen playing the then-popular game – Snake! I was very intrigued because such a simple game could keep them glued to the phone… what more in the future when phones become more high tech? That’s when the notion of cyber safety came to my mind. 

    After I graduated from university, I decided to follow my passion instead of what I had studied. My parents were initially hesitant about my career path because they felt that I would be “wasting” my Masters degree and considering too that my Masters project had secured me a patent. However upon several discussions, they were agreeable to having me pursue my passion. 

    I had a good friend already working in TOUCH Cyber Wellness and I volunteered for 2 months as a programme assistant in the cyber wellness enrichment holiday camp. Those two months were really eye-opening and allowed me the opportunity to work closely in mentoring the youths who had excessive gaming behaviours, as well as connecting with parents to help them better empathize and understand their children’ habits and how to manage them.

    Since then, I came on board as a full time staff with TOUCH Cyber Wellness and have no regrets looking back at these past 9 fruitful years!
    Which aspect of your job gives you the most satisfaction?

    To be able to speak hope and encouragement to many parents who are struggling and feeling hopeless in dealing with their children. I also enjoy mentoring the children and teenagers, spending time with them and educating them on positive online behaviours. 
    What does success mean to you?

    Success in life to me means to be able to be a blessing to someone else. This is a fundamental belief that I have held on to since my university days when I started taking my life more seriously.

    Are you involved in any charity / voluntary work?

    Yes, I am currently actively volunteering as a life coach to a group of young adults. I also volunteer together with my wife in mentoring a few young adult dating couples and preparing them towards marriage. 
    One advice to parents

    The best way you can love your children is to love your spouse. And love is spelt TIME.
    One advice to teens

    YOLO – You Only Live Once… So make your life count for goodness and greatness!
    To be a good youth worker (or youth coach), it takes someone… who is passionate and convicted about the importance of the next generation.


    {Interviews} 101 Paths to Success

    #1 – Dr Karen Crasta Scientist Associate Prof at the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine


    #2 – Jeremiah Choy Creative Director Sing50 Concert at the National Stadium

    #3 – Elaine Yeo Musician Singapore Symphony Orchestra


    ~ www.mummyweeblog.com – a blog on parenting 6 kids in Singapore ~