Katherine Braha’s Quest Is To Educate And Implement Initiatives To Improve SaladStop!’s Sustainability And Reduce Their Ecological Footprint.
What’s your story?
I studied hospitality at Cornell University and grew up/lived in hotels my whole life. I have always had a passion for healthy/clean food that nourishes your body for optimum health. I have always been a very active person that loves the outdoors. I became a vegetarian/vegan at the age of 9 and have been an advocate for plant-based nutrition ever since. SaladStop! has been a vehicle for me to educate and implement initiatives that resonate with my lifestyle such as more plant-based options, sustainable packaging, local sourcing.
What excites you most about your industry?
That I can influence people’s eating habits by creating more delicious plant foods and educate consumers on food waste, local sourcing, reusable and plant-based food.
What is your connection to Asia?
I grew up in Asia and moved around every 2 years. I then stayed in Singapore for my last 4 years of high school and then left for Cornell University for my undergrad studying hospitality. I then moved to Thailand for 6 years where I worked with the central group and opened my own restaurants. I then joined the family business (SaladStop!) 9 years ago.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
Singapore for sure. We are so spoiled with all the support we get from the government through grants and other support schemes. Singapore is a mature market and a great place to test new concepts (we have 4 concepts) high density – high traffic with office clutters that is required for our business model.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
Empathize with people. Put yourself in that person’s shoes. Try to understand why the person did what they did. Start from the assumption that everyone is good. What could he have been thinking, what could have happened to him in the past to make him do what he did? This has helped me tremendously with my work.
Who inspires you?
My inspiration throughout my life is my dear mother, Mrs. Eleonore Desbaillets. She is the nicest human being I have ever known, taught me to be compassionate to all people, taught me what it means to love, what it means to make someone happy, how to give unconditionally and how to respect people.
What have you just learned recently that blew you away?
Watched the Octopus Teacher on Netflix. The film shows how Foster began freediving in a cold underwater kelp forest at the tip of South Africa. He started to film his experiences and, in time, a curious young octopus captured his attention. By visiting her den and tracking her movements every day for months, he won the animal’s trust. In the film, Foster describes the impact on the life of his relationship with the octopus.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
Nothing. I believe that everything happens for a reason. Things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they’re right, and sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.”
How do you unwind?
I teach and train horses at the Singapore Polo Club. I get up at 4 am daily to ride and then I’m off to work by 8 am. It brings me so much peace to be with these majestic animals every morning.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
BALI – Beyond stunning beaches and magical temples, Bali has virtually every kind of natural beauty. Glorious mountainous areas with lush greenery, scenic lakes, gorgeous waterfalls, iconic rice fields, and secret canyons all make up the island’s landscape. Also, love the food and all the plant-based restaurants.
Everyone in business should read this book:
Unfortunately, I have not had time to read for the last few years. I have a 2-year-old and spend time with him when I’m not at work or riding. I did buy the 4-hour workweek 🙂 Planning to start next week.
Shameless plug for your business:
We believe that environmental consciousness is a crucial responsibility and must be an integral component of our operational excellence. Our quest to improve SaladStop!’s sustainability begins with our commitment to take responsibility and reduce our ecological footprint.
How can people connect with you?
Email – [email protected]
Social Media Links?
Instagram – Instagram.com/saladstopsg
Facebook – http://Facebook.com/saladstopsg
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To hear how entrepreneurs around the world overcome their challenges, search your favourite podcast platform for ‘CallumConnects‘ to hear a 5-minute daily breakdown.
Callum Laing is an entrepreneur and investor based in Singapore. He has previously started, built, and sold half a dozen businesses and is now a Partner at Unity-Group Private Equity and Co-Founder and CEO of MBH Corporation PLC. He is the author of three best-selling books ‘Progressive Partnerships’, ‘Agglomerate’, and ‘Entrepreneurial Investing’.
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