Sabrina has tried to put “her money where her mouth is and make it count.” Starting out at 15 she is now working on a fashion project after recently receiving investment.
What’s your story?
I started my first start-up at 15 and I recently got my first angel investment for a project we were working on in 2015.
What excites you most about your industry?
I like the fast pace environment to some extent, especially mixing two of the most fast paced industries you can imagine together, as one entity.
What’s your connection to Asia?
Well… I’m yellow-skinned. Does that count as a connection to Asia?
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
Singapore is most definitely my first and only choice. It’s central, the country is safe, taxation is reasonable, people are talented (some self-appraisal here), not the most advanced countries but well connected (online), great infrastructure and reasonable enough support from the government.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
“Put your money where your mouth is to make it count.” It could be better phrased but the moral of the story is basically, empty words means nothing. You need to be able to filter through the world of dazzle and focus on those that can; 1. pay the bills and 2. pay for comfort.
Who inspires you?
Many people inspire me, especially the underprivileged that struggle to make a living.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
I’m learning things daily. Just in a previous meeting, I learnt that a million dollars maybe a lot to me, but is considered change to someone else.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
Build deeper connections. I’d like to think I’ve got many acquaintances but I’d hate to admit that I barely know any of these people.
How do you unwind?
Anime. The world should be made of animation.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
Well, it’s not as conventional… but I really liked that evening I spent sitting at the Starbucks at Tagaytay, Philippines. Bali was great too, I really liked Chandra Villa.
Everyone in business should read this book:
Book? I don’t remember the last time I really read a book on business. I read articles daily but not really books. How about, Larger than Life by Belinda Lee? It’s not about business but about living. In this modern city, especially in business, a reminder of humanity is necessary.
Shameless plug for your business:
You should become a member of www.sauceink.com/register (SAUCEink – The juice pack for modern women) because it’s going to be the next big thing!
How can people connect with you?
I’m easily searchable, I’d like to think. There’s my blog, my Facebook page (my page is more of my fashion label now, but I still read all messages personally), my Instagram, my Twitter, my Tumblr, my… yes stalk me digitally please. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to find me on Facebook unless we have mutual friends.
IG: http://www.instagram.com/princessadiary | http://www.instagram.com/shopprincessa | http://www.instagram.com/sauceink
FB: http://www.facebook.com/princessadiary | http://www.facebook.com/sauceink
Blog: http://www.sabrina.sg | http://www.sauceink.com (technically… not a blog…)
Tumblr: http://princessadiary.tumblr.com | http://sauceinkmagazine.tumblr.com
Twitter handle?
@sabrinasg
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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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