Bringing accessible children’s tuition to Asia. Blyss Chang plans to take her business, Geno House to the more poor and rural communities across Asia to help kids get access to affordable tuition.
What’s your story?
I was a Forex broker who was very comfortably remunerated before I started a small tuition business, at a 215 square foot space. There were a lot of uncertainties due to the competitiveness of the business and lack of expertise. I did it, trusting that the passion in working with children and the determination to improve their lives would differentiate Geno House as a children ministry rather than a regular tuition centre. We brought together industry achievers who were seriously devoted to education. Our efforts paid off and we now have over 1000 happy parents and kids. We have since moved and are now located at a much larger residence, 1550 square foot space in Ang Mo Kio Central.
What excites you most about your industry?
The many children whom we help. Either they can not clear an entrance test into their tuition centre of choice or their parents simply cannot afford extra tuition. Geno House raises children like family members; the environment differs from people’s expectations of a tuition centre. We have a pool of strong and devoted educators who constantly create pedagogies to simplify learning and make tuition affordable. We counsel many children who have problems in their lives and as a result we see many transformations into much happier children.
What’s your connection to Asia?
Singapore has robust education content. Geno House, in collaboration with other partners, are working to bring our education content across Asia, especially reaching out to the poor, rural communities. “First World Service, Third World Price,” as the team have labelled it.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
Singapore! As a start-up, it is always safer to know that you have your government support, in all areas; understanding the business laws, knowing the unknown riddles and financial assistance schemes.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
“The equation must balance.” The value extraction destabilizes a business model. To foster a long-term business relationship, all parties must win.
Who inspires you?
My husband who is a mentor, gives his all to his mentees. He works un paid to ensure the wellbeing of the kids.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
Business – Ineffective allocation of resources kills a company and value-extraction tarnishes reputation.
Personal – Importance of choosing the right medical facility; even a minor condition at the wrong place can take a life.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
If finance was not a consideration, I would love to go on mission trips. Otherwise, I am really happy where I am.
How do you unwind?
Going to my parent’s place, staying at home to watch programmes on my 120-inch projector screen and hanging out with my buddies!
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
Bintan. Being in an education business doesn’t give you much time to travel very far. Bintan is near and relaxing. I have a lot of fond memories there with my husband.
Everyone in business should read this book:
Nothing specific but anything on resources for marketing is a must.
Shameless plug for your business:
A Gem In the City – The Education Centre of Transformation & Success
How can people connect with you?
Facebook (Bethany Blyss), LinkedIn, Email [email protected]
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This interview was part of the Callum Connect’s column found on The Asian Entrepreneur:
Callum Laing invests and buys small businesses in a range of industries around Asia. He has previously started, built and sold half a dozen businesses and is the founder & owner of Fitness-Buffet a company delivering employee wellness solutions in 12 countries. He is a Director of, amongst others, Key Person of Influence. A 40 week training program for business owners and executives.
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