A Cuppa With...: Recent Episodes
SMU Alumni Giving
There’s nothing more relaxing than pouring yourself a cuppa and having a fun chat with a friend.
Our dynamic alumni giving podcast series, ‘A Cuppa With...’, aims to recreate the comforting interaction between pals, through conversations with special guest alumni. These industry experts welcome us into their colourful lives as they relate touching anecdotes, and insightful perspectives in overcoming personal and professional hurdles. Get inspired to take purposeful action with their illuminating thoughts on making a meaningful difference through work, play and life.
For alumnus Krishna Worotikan (BBM, 2009), management is about prioritisation - be it time management, shaping one’s profession, or decision making. It is important to pace oneself, and more often than not, different things get prioritised at different stages in life while something else gets sacrificed during this period.
For instance, as the current Chief Financial Officer in Microsoft Indonesia, he sees technology and digital transformation as the future. Thus, he prioritised adapting and mastering the relevant technology skills over the core finance routines and eventually enabled himself more time on value-adding activities that created greater impact for the company.
Krishna also uses the same mindset on other aspects such as when leading the company for diversity and inclusion, and eventually influencing others in the ecosystem, such as customers and partners, to embrace the same concept.
Tune in to the final episode of A Cuppa With… (Season 2) for more sharing from Krishna on his invaluable insights and experiences that led him on a journey to success.
To pioneer alumna Emily Poon (BBM, 2004), having access to opportunities is a critical factor in forging one’s path and journey.
Looking back at her life experiences, Emily revealed that she had been given many invaluable opportunities at different points in life, and these dots had connected, leading to where she is now. She felt very fortunate to have met good bosses, mentors and people who taught her many important lessons.
However, these access to opportunities were not simply given by chance – one needed to have the willingness to speak up, the ability to embrace and accept rejections, and empathy. Having learnt and practiced all of these, Emily has successfully risen through the ranks to become the President of PR & Influence at Ogilvy Asia today, a role she relishes.
Hear from Emily on how she would consciously remind herself everyday to give her time, voice, and energy to encourage positive change, and provide others with access to opportunities just like how she had received them through the years.
If you are wondering whether entrepreneurship is the right path for you, here’s some advice from SMU Alumnus Benjamin Twoon (BBM, 2013): Ask yourself what your convictions are, what is your purpose, why you are embarking on this journey and if this is what you still want to pursue.
Benjamin made a transition from banking to fintech industry, and co-founded Fundnel, a platform where companies can leverage on for capital raising. He hoped to support entrepreneurs through this daunting process as they embark on their startup journey towards success. Benjamin’s support doesn’t end here - in the same year, he also established the P.A.K. Entrepreneurship Fund with a fellow alumnus Jeff Tung to empower students to explore their entrepreneurial dreams, helping them achieve their goals.
Yet that’s just the tip of the iceberg in a startup journey. How can we prepare to face the other challenges? How did Benjamin reach success? Find out more about his story in the 6th episode of the alumni giving podcast series, “A Cuppa With…”.
“You have to put your money where your mouth is. If you're passionate about something, you invest not just your money, but also your effort, time, and resources to build your business.”
Our 5th episode of alumni giving podcast series, “A Cuppa With…”, revealed many interesting insights from alumna Karen Cheah (MI, 2019) on how she stepped into her journey to become the Founder & CEO of AlterPacks.
Different chance encounters led Karen to look at the opportunity of tackling the problem of waste management. She now creates a new compostable material made from food loss in manufacturing to replace plastic food containers. AlterPacks was thus born.
From incubation at the SMU Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, to winning awards globally, starting one’s own venture hasn’t been the easiest but it has been most fulfilling to Karen. Tune in to find out the challenges she faced, how these were overcome, and the advice this tour de force alumna has for budding entrepreneurs.
☕ "Everybody has a different way of being part of society and I think that’s something you choose for yourself."
Get a flavour of our latest episode of "A Cuppa With..." featuring insightful perspectives shared by one of SMU's pioneering alumni, David Isaac Mathews (BBM, 2004).
As Chief Growth Officer at GrowthOps, David is heavily involved in innovating key processes and driving growth for the company and its partners. 💼 Apart from actively seeking to create impact through his work and helping companies achieve greater successes, he is likewise deeply committed to supporting and guiding youths as they chart their own paths. 🤝
"I don't crave success. I crave being present. I crave enjoying the moment." 🌟
For Isaac Tan (BBM 2010), the Co-Founder and General Manager of the 📹 video production agency, Big 3 Media, what drives him more than just success is enjoying the moment and creating value for the people around him.
In our latest episode of "A Cuppa With", this 🏆 multi-awarded alumnus shares his journey as a business owner and how he integrated his principles, purpose, and presence into his chosen career, embarking on something more creative than the typical route many SMU graduates take. More food for thought 💡 include his views on social entrepreneurship, the entertainment industry, and his philosophy about paying it forward.
Urging youths and professionals to jump on as many opportunities as possible, these wise 💡 words were referenced by Isabelle Lim (MCM, 2016), our very special guest in the latest episode of “A Cuppa With…”. The Director of Corporate Affairs, Engagement, Sustainability, and Consumer Advisory of L’Oréal Group Singapore charts her illustrious career and reveals the special ingredients that contributed to her ✨ stellar professional advancement.
This electric ⚡️ conversation also features a rousing call to meaningfully integrate sustainability 🌱 into organisations and lessons on living out your purpose through philanthropy.
“Success is knowing your purpose in life, growing to reach your maximum potential, and sowing seeds that benefit others.” — John C. Maxwell 💫
To kick off the second season of “A Cuppa With...”, our podcast series where we host SMU alumni for an informal coffee chat about the importance of giving back & doing good for others, we have invited two very special guests, alumnus Marcus Loh (MCM, 2015), Executive Director of WE Communications’ Group, and wife Lin Suling, Director at National Trades Union Congress.
Together, they are a powerhouse couple each with their own passions but united in their commitment to creating meaningful impact through their actions, work, and philanthropy. ❤️
Subscribe now and listen to the different perspectives they employ for success in their professional and personal lives.
Head of Business Development at Parisilk and alumnus, Mahesh Primalani (BBM, 2004) exemplifies the idea that leadership is much more than a title - it is a verb that represents action and accountability. 💥
In this very special, final episode of this season of A Cuppa With..., we're honored to hear from Mahesh; the first-ever President of the SMU Students' Association (SMUSA). ➡️ Together with the current SMUSA President, Lim Jia En (BBM, 2023), we chart the progression of SMU from humble beginnings to the prestigious institution it is today. 🚀
Tune in now to find out why giving back is an accurate indicator of good leadership! 🌟
About Mahesh Primalani
Mahesh Primalani's first job out of university was at a prestigious consulting firm, an enviable position for a new entrant in the workforce. While he remarks that the experience taught him many valuable lessons and gifted him with great friendships, he soon felt a strong pull to return to his roots. Ever since then, Mahesh has been an integral part of the Parisilk team, continuing the legacy of this consumer electronics firm set up by his grandfather in 1952.
In the 7th and penultimate episode of our alumni-centered podcast series, we're honored to speak with the Philippines Country Lead for Google Customer Solutions, Flo Yeow (BBM, 2015). 🥳
This superstar alumnus warmly shares tidbits of wisdom about success, in all senses of the word - personal, professional, and philanthropic. 🌱 We have learned so much from Flo and are excited for you to walk away with fresh perspectives, as we did. Tune in to “A Cuppa with Flo Yeow”, for a leader's take on:
- Thriving in the modern workplace by thriving in ambiguity and navigating complexity 🔭
- Developing a virtuous cycle where mentor and mentee learn from each other 💡
- Making it a habit to give back with money or effort 💚
Sip on your cuppa of choice as you reflect on Flo’s wise words. Tune in now!
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About Flo Yeow
Having been in Big Tech for over 5 years, Flo Yeow is a seasoned player in the technology landscape. Leading conversations around customer solutions, Flo understands and values the importance of maintaining relationships and he believes in the power of people and community. Currently, Flo is also a Guest Lecturer at the SMU Academy, leading a module on Sales & Marketing in the 21st Century.
In conversation with the General Manager of the legendary brand, Poh Heng Jewellery, we're excited for you to tune in to our 6th episode, 'A Cuppa with Pamela Seow'. The accomplished SMU alumnus (BBA, 2005) beams with pride as she recounts the strides the family business has made in its storied, decades-long history. Among priceless gems like this, she discusses:
- Embracing heritage as a strength while continually evolving 🎎
- Navigating the intricate team dynamics of a family business 🤝
- The role that sentiment and memories play in shaping our direction 💭
More about Pamela Seow
Pamela graduated from SMU’s Lee Kong Chian School of Business in 2005 before joining her family’s business that her grandfather started 73 years ago - Poh Heng Jewellery. As a third-generation leader, she skillfully navigates the path between maintaining the brand’s heritage and values while injecting freshness & relevancy. She has a special love for animals and has fostered three rescue cats.
Grab your coffee of choice and wind down with episode 5 in our alumni giving podcast series, 'A Cuppa With Keeve Tan'. ☕ As the Head of Futures, FX & CFD at OCBC Securities, Keeve (MBA, 2017) shares his wealth of knowledge and colorful personal experience on: ️
💥 The importance of creating direct impact for the people around you
🌈 Philanthropy and how giving back is a central driving force in his life
⚖️ Integrating sustainability practices in a business environment
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About Keeve Tan
Following the completion of his post-graduate studies in SMU, Keeve now serves as the Head of Futures, FX & CFD at OCBC Securities. With a strong passion and interest in the world of finance, Keeve challenges the norms in a fast-paced banking industry. He actively engages in volunteerism - from helping children in dysfunctional families to advocating for gender equality, Keeve strongly believes in philanthropy and giving back to underprivileged communities.
It's time for your weekend perk-me-up: ‘A Cuppa With Joan Chang’, the Co-Founder of Lloyd’s Inn and Founder of OVE. ☕️
In the fourth brew of our alumni coffee chats, Joan (BBM, 2013) spills the beans on:
🎢 The unique challenges she faces while taking Lloyd’s Inn and OVE to towering heights
💪🏼 The importance of looking out for your team in the chaos of the current global pandemic
🎤 The effectiveness of developing your own voice as a leader in mobilizing impactful action
Grab your Cuppa and tune in now!
More about Joan Chang
Featured on Prestige's 40 Under 40 (2020), Joan Chang has made a name for herself in Singapore’s real estate and hospitality scene. Joan’s passion for lifestyle and lifelong learning propelled her to transform Lloyd’s Inn into a minimalist haven. She is also the face behind premium lifestyle brand OVE.
🎁 Treat yourself to a third pour of our refreshing coffee chats with ‘A Cuppa With Lin Fengru’ (BSc (ISM), 2011). This energetic and insightful conversation with the jovial Co-Founder & CEO of TurtleTree Labs paints a vivid picture of true stewardship in action.
This power-packed episode is filled with bold and striking notes on:
🔍 Fengru’s visionary commitment to innovate new solutions and create resonant impact for future generations
🧨 Her team’s tenacity, willingness and unmitigated drive to tackle complex global problems like sustainability
💪 Carving meaning in your work by looking out for the vulnerable
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More About Lin Fengru
A featured young leader on EDGE’s “35 under 35” list, Lin Fengru has made an exciting, indelible mark on Singapore’s startup ecosystem. Under her leadership, with no experience in biotechnology, she has remarkably spearheaded the growth of TurtleTree Labs – one of the world's first companies to specialise in production of cell-based milk in a bid to disrupt the dairy industry. She is also devoting philanthropic efforts in setting up the TurtleTree Foundation which seeks to produce milk for endangered species.
🤩 We’re back with another energising pick-me-up , 'A Cuppa With Benjamin Boh' [BSc(ISM), 2007]. The General Manager of McDonald’s Singapore gives us a lot to sip on, especially with his take on creating impact and helping others. Hint: It's got something to do with prioritising his employees' needs.
Don't miss out on these flavourful bits from the podcast:
💪 His inspirational take on leadership and strong commitment to developing the leaders of tomorrow
☀️The power, joy and collective wisdom that comes from working with 4 generations
💫 How he excels at the monumental, heart-pounding task of riding the fast food giant wave. Here's a fun fact - with more than 10,000 employees, McDonald's Singapore is the largest F&B business employer in Singapore!
☕ It's the perfect power-packed blend to kick off your weekend. Grab your favourite brew, get comfortable in your cozy chair and tune in now
More about Benjamin Boh
Benjamin spent 6 years in large FMCG corporations before joining McDonald’s in 2013, including a 2-year stint overseas for McDonald’s Japan too. As the General Manager of an iconic F&B giant, Benjamin leads by example, putting the progression of each employee at the forefront, reminding us that looking after others and giving back should always follow success.
SGAG and Hepmil Media Group Co-Founder, Karl Mak [BSc(Econ), 2013] joins us as our very first guest on our new alumni giving podcast series, ‘A Cuppa With…’. Listen to the upbeat and inspiring exchange between this Forbes Asia ‘30 under 30’ honoree and SMU Broadcast & Entertainment student Radio Jockey Koh Jie Min [BBM, 2023] as they uncover the ups, downs, highs and lows in Karl’s single-minded mission to build comedic platforms and content that people know and love.
Hear from Karl about the serious business of making people laugh -- from the hilarious beginnings of now iconic SGAG, the unlikely partnerships that skyrocketed Karl and co-founder Adrian Ang [BBM, 2013] to success, on how the duo grew the company to heights they never dreamt of, to how he had responded to naysayers in his path.
Sit back, relax and get ready to be entertained by Karl’s amusing anecdotes as he spills some tea… we mean, sips his coffee!
Follow us to stay up to date on our upcoming releases!
Here’s a short-and-sweet taster of what to expect with our new podcast series ‘A Cuppa With…’
Let SMU Broadcast and Entertainment Radio Jockey Koh Jie Min [BBM, 2023] give you a quick snapshot of what to expect in our upcoming episodes. From unconventional business models to recipes for unmatched innovation to shaking up traditional industries, our conversations are always underscored by perspectives on making a difference, improving lives and giving back. As an added bonus, get a sneak peek of our first episode with Karl Mak [BSc(Econ), 2013], Co-Founder of Hepmil Media Group (SGAG, MGAG, PGAG)!
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