Senior Manager, Communications and Marketing

Background

I always knew I wanted to write for a living, but it was only after a stint in the newsroom that I realised I needed my words to make a positive impact. Since then, I’ve become committed to making a career out of using communications for the betterment of the world. My professional development has expanded from just writing to the whole gamut of communications disciplines, be it public relations, marketing, branding, internal communications, content development, social media, or design.

I was previously at the Institute of Policy Studies in Singapore, working on research, public affairs, and social media for the think-tank. I got to work with Mr Peter Ho and Mr Lim Siong Guan, former Heads of Civil Service in Singapore, as a research assistant, supporting them in producing and writing public lectures. I also managed the Institute's social media platforms and led on editorial and content development.

Prior to joining Forum, I was part of the in-house communications team at the Singapore International Foundation, a public diplomacy agency. I led on communications for sustainable development programmes, internal communications, branding, PR, video production, events and supported on social media.

In my previous life as an undergraduate, I worked as a freelance copywriter for Small and Medium Enterprises, produced two plays, revamped my university's student magazine as Deputy Chief Editor and Head Copyeditor, volunteered as widely as possible, and soaked up as much as I could. This may be why I love everything I do in the realm of communications: I see endless possibilities of what any organisation can achieve.

And as Forum’s first Communications and Marketing Manager in APAC, I aim to build mindshare, brand equity, and establish Forum as the thought leader for futures and sustainability issues in the region... for a start. There is no 'after', because the work to ensuring a good future for all never ends and I intend to do every bit I can, while I can.

Dream Project 

A multimedia, multi-platform documentary series based on Forum’s work. Compelling storytelling has the ability to make a positive impact—coupled with Forum’s approach to systemic change and sustainability, I believe we have a winning combination that has potential to deliver long-term effects. 

What floats my boat outside work?

On weekdays, I am typically bent over my desk at work. On weekends, I am also typically bent over my desk, scratching out images on postcards. I am a self-taught illustrator, having started relatively late in life. My preferred mediums are pen drawings, calligraphy, and watercolour, with nature as my main subject.

When I’m not drawing, I’m trying to clone myself so I can do everything and more: catching up on classic anime and graphic novels, poking around museums, documenting life with a camera… I guess you could say I’m trying to live as much as possible.

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