Mai Vo’s Post

It’s only been two months into the year, and I feel like I am barely keeping my head above water🫠Amidst the multiple projects and responsibilities, this is a story I really want to share. Just last week, Andrea Chuah and I had the privilege of meeting someone that is dynamic and inspiring - Ng Nichol! I have seen her at conferences, heard about her amazing work and even read about how she juggles everything. It felt surreal when we finally met, and despite her jam-packed schedule, she graciously responded to all our emails, took notes during our conversation, and generously showed us around her office and heritage space at XPACE. 💡 Nichol embodies the values of innovation and agility, constantly striving to stay ahead of the curve in running her business, creating an appealing workplace to attract new talent. She also turned her family business journey into this amazing heritage space that’s open for self-guided tours! It’s like stepping into history, but with a modern twist, bridging the past with the future. 👭 We also got into an important topic on the need for “real”support and uplifting of women. Despite all the talk about empowering women and more “women for women initiatives”, there’s still a lot of competition instead of collaboration out there. 💪 We discussed the need for more women to break through the glass ceilings and advocates for making Singapore a nurturing environment, fostering collaboration over competition. Absolutely agree that we should harness our natural maternal side as women to create that nurturing space for Singapore and future Singapore. Leaving our meeting, I could not shake off this feeling of inspiration. Despite the her plate being so full, Nichol’s dedication to making a positive impact on people and her community is just contagious. I hope more folks get to experience her Xspace, Xtory and support her awesome initiatives. So, here’s what I took away from our chat: it’s on us, as women, to lift each other up. Whether it’s through mentoring, offering opportunities, or simply being there to cheer each other on, every little bit counts. Let’s keep supporting each other and making our workplaces and communities better places for everyone🩷

🌟[Perxter Shoutouts] 🌟 Our Founder and CEO, Anna Gong, recently shared her insights on building the right team, overcoming gender biases, and motivating a multi-generational workforce in the latest series of TiE Singapore's #TiEmpowerHer. Read all about it below.

In the latest edition of our #TiEmpowerHer series, TiE Singapore had the pleasure of hosting Anna Gong, Founder and CEO of Perx Technologies, for a fireside chat “In Conversation with Anna Gong”, moderated by our charter member, Fiza Malhotra, Co-founder and CEO of Beyond Marketing. In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, effective leadership and strategic decision-making are crucial for success. Whether it's building the right team, overcoming gender biases, or motivating a multi-generational workforce, leaders face numerous challenges. Anna offered these essential insights and strategies to navigate these complexities: 🎯 Build the Right Team and Make Tough Decisions A great idea alone isn't enough; the right team is essential to achieve success. Don't hesitate to make difficult decisions, including "firing fast" if someone isn't the right fit for the role. Building and maintaining a competent team will determine your success. 🎯 Overcome Challenges as a Woman in Deep Tech Being a woman in deep tech can be challenging due to societal expectations for women to be gentle, compliant, and sensitive. Female leaders often struggle to integrate into male-dominated leadership teams and networks, leading to undervaluing themselves and overcompensating. To succeed: o Believe in yourself and negotiate better for what you deserve. o Stay curious, keep learning, and continue disrupting the status quo. 🎯 Motivate a Multi-Generational Workforce A common criticism is that "kids these days don’t know the value of hard work." According to Gallup's recent Generation Disconnected survey, 54% of Generation Z and younger millennials are not engaged at work, compared to Generation X and baby boomers. The younger generation is often seen as too woke and soft. To address this: o Implement a proper process to track progress and publicly acknowledge achievements. o Invest in cultivating a strong and identifiable company culture. A big shout-out to our corporate member, Bank of Singapore, Asia's Global Private Bank, for coming on board as our venue partner. Stay tuned for details on the June edition of TiEmpowerHer Talks! #TiEWomen #EmpowerHer #WomenEntrepreneurs #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #Empowerment #Networking #CommunityBuilding Prantik Mazumdar | Amit Gupta | Anna Vanessa Haotanto 陳安娜 | Arishta Khanna | James Chan | Marc Nicholson | Jeffrey Nah| Pankaj Gupta | Rebecca Martin | Sameer Kanwar | Dr. Vinika Devasar Rao | Pratima Amonkar | Manisha Seewal | Mohan Subramaniam | Aditya Kaul | Sudha Elan |

It takes courage to do new things. As small business owners, we often find ourselves at crossroads, contemplating new opportunities and challenges. But here's the good news: with the right mindset and support, we can embrace change with confidence and clarity. I have been on my own journey of expanding my coaching and consulting business. So, how can we navigate new spaces and scale with confidence? It starts with embracing uncertainty and reframing change as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. By tapping into our resilience and resourcefulness, we can adapt to new environments and challenges with grace and resilience. Commit to embracing change as a catalyst for growth and transformation in our careers, life and businesses. Step boldly into the unknown, trusting in your abilities and embracing the endless possibilities that lie ahead.  After all, the greatest adventures often begin at the end of our comfort zones! I can help you on your journey. If you would like to have a quick chat about your transition and growth, let’s connect. Quick chat - 15mins >> https://lnkd.in/e-HMdSEC This year, I’m embracing another level in my business.  I’m inviting an Inner Circle of BOSS CHICS to expand their perspective, do something big for themselves and travel with me to Spain. The idea - ask yourself what’s holding me back? You can join us on our "BOSS CHICS GO INTERNATIONAL” women's retreat in October, where we’ll invest 10 transformational days in enjoying the wonders of Barcelona and Madrid. Find out more here >> https://lnkd.in/eTadq6JN #NavigatingGrowth #GrowthMindsetGoal #EmpoweredWomen #Confidenceiskey #SheMeansBusiness

𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗚𝗟𝗔𝗦𝗦 𝗖𝗘𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗚 I first met Neil Patwardhan outside a studio after recording a podcast with Sam Dennis. We became fast life friends. Tonight, I'll speak at the 𝗨𝗡𝗙𝗜𝗟𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗘𝗗 series, which Neil started in Singapore and is hosted at 1880 Singapore. With Grace Kerrison and Naomi Aldred, I'll reveal my stories on breaking and NOT breaking the glass ceilings. The term "glass ceiling" means an invisible wall that stops some people. Especially women and minorities, from moving up to higher jobs in a company. Even if they have the skills and qualifications. It is called "glass" because you can't see it right away, making it quiet and hidden. The "ceiling" part means it is a limit that keeps people from reaching the top levels of their careers. This idea shows how unfairness based on gender and race is built into the way workplaces are run. I've had my share of these moments, particularly when aspiring for top leadership roles, that have tested my resolve. My most important lessons about the glass ceiling include: 👉 Being unafraid to fail. This included graciously accepting the role of being the first and only, without questioning my hire as a diversity check. 👉 The glass ceiling becomes less unbreakable when women help other women. 👉 The immense value of sponsorship. These, for me, have not been necessarily big gestures that are obvious but seemingly small acts. Dismantling the glass ceiling that still cages the ambitions of countless women in Asia is why I'm building ELEVATE with Jingjin Liu. Ensuring that every woman can rise to her full potential, free from invisible barriers. We're building ELEVATE not just for ourselves but for the generations of people beyond our lifetime. What's a glass ceiling moment that still stays with you?

Redefining what it means to build a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. Your lifestyle as a female founder DOES matter! Work-Life Integration vs. Balance Rather than viewing work and life as separate entities, many elite female founders focus on integrating the two in a way that allows them to thrive in both areas simultaneously. Continuous Learning and Personal Development High-achieving women prioritize investing in their own growth, whether through coaching, advanced leadership courses, or attending exclusive masterminds and retreats. Health, Wellness, and Longevity Physical and mental well-being is a top priority for these women. I personally work with business coaches, wellness mentors, nutritionists, and fitness experts to create personalized routines that keep me at peak performance. Building a Legacy Beyond Business Many elite female entrepreneurs are deeply focused on creating a legacy that extends beyond their professional achievements. This could involve mentoring other women in business, engaging in philanthropic activities, or designing initiatives that give back to their communities. Strategic Time Management and Boundaries Managing time with precision is crucial for maintaining high performance without burning out.  Elite female founders are deliberate about where they focus their energy. Designing an Empowered Network Building and maintaining relationships with other high-achieving individuals is a priority. These women carefully curate their professional and personal networks. Mindset Mastery and Emotional Resilience Developing a resilient mindset is essential for navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Founders invest time in practices to maintain a positive outlook and bounce back from challenges. Intentional Lifestyle Design These women focus on creating daily routines and environments that inspire them. From designing home offices that foster creativity to choosing travel experiences that broaden their horizons. They make deliberate choices about how they spend their time. Financial Independence and Wealth Building Elite female founders view their business success as a means to achieve financial freedom and security, which in turn allows them to make bold decisions in their personal lives. Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship Many of these leaders focus on aligning their businesses with a greater purpose, whether it’s promoting sustainability, fostering social change, or empowering marginalized communities. They understand that leading with purpose attracts like-minded clients and partners but also gives them a deeper sense of fulfillment. This is a big reason why I assist high-level female founders in designing lifestyles that empower them to reach their full potential. Our approach to life and work should be deeply intentional, ensuring that each aspect contributes to our overall growth and success. #womeninleadership #businessbydesign #thepowerhouseempire #womeninbusiness

The biggest problem for women in business as creators lies in the energy and time investments we make in our roles as mothers, wives, sisters, daughters, mentors, coaches… (insert your role here). There are two ways to manage your time as a woman in business: the creator and the organizer. Organizers They divide their day into 30-60 minute blocks, with 10-20 blocks per day. Their focus is on meetings where they direct others, collect data, and make decisions. They treat time like currency, an empty slot is a lost opportunity that needs to be filled with things to do. Their goal is to use every block of the day. Creators A smaller group of women, actually create and their work requires larger time blocks, half-day or full-day. They may only have 1-2 time blocks daily and 10-14 per week… If they’re lucky! Creators’ work involves known inputs but variable outputs. They work until their quality output diminishes, rather than until a set time. They mentally exhaust themselves faster than organizers. A meeting, even a short one, disrupts their deep and flow-dependent work significantly. An empty calendar means full productivity for creators, who often work early mornings or late evenings to limit interruptions, and maximize creation… like content! Many women in business struggle to create iconic content that reflects their brand and vision. Often, it’s not due to lack of ingenious ideas, but more so they don’t know how to manage time based on the nature of their tasks. Earlier this year, I fully understood that for my business to go to the next level, I would need to strengthen both my creator and organizer skills! Provide women that are creators the space and time to do so in an environment that inspires! I’ve experienced this multiple times and it’s life-changing personally and professionally. Imagine a combination of personal and professional development expanding your power with spirituality, entrepreneurship, and connection through travel for the ultimate transformation into becoming the woman who makes it happen. Want to learn more? Comment "MENTORSHIP". #WomenInBusiness #CreatorMindset #TimeManagement #Entreprenurship #ContentCreation #Mentorship #Zeahlot

𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐧𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 & 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲! Success in business and life presents unique difficulties and opportunities, particularly for Asian women in the dynamic industries of sustainability, tourism, and MICE. How do we balance these demands while staying true to our cultural roots and professional aspirations? As an Asian woman navigating the complex landscape of sustainability in tourism and MICE, I’ve encountered a myriad of challenges and triumphs. Here’s how we can embrace our heritage, leverage our strengths, and drive success both personally and professionally: 🍀 Our cultural background is a powerful asset. Authenticity resonates and helps build trust and credibility. 🍀 Surround ourselves with mentors, peers, and allies who understand and support your journey. Networking is not just about professional gains but also emotional support and shared experiences. 🍀 Champion diversity and inclusion within your organization and industry. Your advocacy can pave the way for future generations of Asian women leaders. 🍀 Showcase your ability to balance traditional values with modern business strategies, demonstrating a holistic approach to leadership and sustainability. 🍀 Resilience is key to navigating the challenges of being an Asian woman in a global industry. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and use them to fuel your motivation and drive. 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐬𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐛𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐈𝐂𝐄? I am Dr Nisha, Let’s connect and support each other in this journey. Share your story, insights, and challenges. Together, we can create a powerful network that drives change and inspires future leaders. Reach out to me today to join this empowering movement. Being successful as an Asian woman in the fields of sustainability, tourism, and MICE is about more than overcoming challenges. It’s about leveraging our unique strengths, embracing our heritage, and fostering a supportive community. By staying true to ourselves and advocating for inclusion, we can lead with impact and inspire others to follow. #asianwomeninleadership #sustainability #tourism #mice #womenempowerment #diversityandinclusion #leadership #culturalheritage LinkedIn News Asia

INSPIRATIONAL WOMAN: A tale of two experiences - Adventure & Luxury 💫 Founded by Nicky Coenen, Last Word Intimate Hotels & Safari Camps is a collection of five-star Intimate Hotels™ and Safari Camps located in South Africa's most legendary locations 🙌🏾⚡️ Experience 'beyond boutique' accommodation at their secure, exclusive residences in the iconic Greater Kruger, Madikwe, storied Cape Winelands, and celebrated Cape Town. Here, pleasingly different luxury hideaway accommodations and warm South African hospitality play host to your dreams of thrilling safaris, memorable fine dining, and rare discoveries that remain uniquely yours - a place of belonging. The people are at the heart of Last Word's brand. Their team is a diverse collective of passionate Africans, and each holds your stay in their hands. At Last Word Intimate Hotels, you will experience world-class boutique hotel accommodations infused with an unmistakable South African accent. Add to that their team's in-depth local knowledge and unbridled passion for delivering enriching experiences, and you have the makings of a life-changing visit. Like us, Nicky is also passionate about supporting female-founded businesses: "I firmly believe that women are our future. We are key role models for our daughters, nieces, and future generations. Women are courageous and empathic, and we bring a unique emotional intelligence level to the companies we lead. We nurture and heal – something the world needs now and in the future. By supporting woman-led businesses, we will encourage growth in the future." And what is her advice to an aspiring entrepreneur or woman just starting her career? "Start before you are ready. Don't prepare, just begin. Only you are stopping yourself from achieving what you want." Head over to Nicky's brand page on our platform to read more of her business tips. You'll also find plenty of insights from other female founders who have shared their #womenled journeys with us ✨ Link in comments!

I just re-labeled my LinkedIn profile headline as #executiveconnector . I have spent the last 5 years connecting with C-suites for the main purpose of angel investing, starting with cold call but sustaining it through 10 seasons of C-shark Tank, season 10 coming up in Chiangmai Nov 30 to Dec 2, online Nov 28. Another initiative WomenChangemakers enabled me to feature women C-suites in panels. I have ran 20+ of them in Hong Kong, Singapore and New York, in-person including 9 consecutive weeks during COVID online. Stemmed out of coming back to Singapore 8 years ago with no school network or friends or colleagues to tap on because I retired younger than most and built my career mostly overseas. Sometimes desperate actions come from desperate challenges. #blessingindisguise Interestingly, in the 1st 40 years of my life, I was not good at connecting. I took pride in being self-sufficient. Asking for help is not normal for me. I did not facebook much (ig was not born yet) because I did not want anyone to know where I am or what I do at any time. It was when I arrived in New York at 41, I instantly became a connector. I shed all career identity, kept that completely mum. I could talk about anything (minus politics & sports) with anyone but no mention of past career. People in NYC would ask me how I could know so many people and bring them together when I was only there since 9 months and they could not hold a candle to me even if they had been there 9 years. I did not know I had that superpower. That is why I am always thankful to New York. However I took another long sabbatical when I retired the 2nd time after getting married. 8 years of no network, no friends again. I was certainly not depressed. It was just a choice I made. That is why events for me are always not just about business. The social aspect is equally key. I have seen, after 9 seasons of C-shark Tank, how executives are just like anyone else. They too want to learn, want to network with equally modest, insightful people. This brings me to launching Club chiefX Asia, something I had wanted to do for a long time. Many leaders have dedicated their entire career to one vertical. With the advent of startups, digital transformation and now AI, we are more and more connected. And there is no end to learning. Linkages and collaboration are critical success factors, not a nice to have. I love the energy in the room when people form and share connections. Business growth and personal growth hinge a lot on referral network. I feel the impact when they whatsapp me to share that they collaborated after my event. My main goal in 2025 is to amplify a network of MNC executives with more than 20 years experience. Together we build resilience. As the CEO of LinkedIn says, "Even if you do not change your job, your job changes on you." Join a highly curated executive community - #clubchiefX