Why did you choose to join Foreign Bodies (FB)?

I would describe myself as someone with a strong musical inclination, having discovered my passion for music and drums at a young age. I also enjoy mimicking dance moves performed by celebrities and dancers featured on MTV. For example, I have mastered Michael Jackson’s when I was a child.  

During my time in NYP, I auditioned for FB upon a friend's suggestion. I showcased my collection of dance moves and rhythmic sense, and successfully passed the audition!

How did you maintain your dedication to dance post-graduation?

It was a result of a combination of achievement, opportunities, community, and passion. In FB, I was one of the committees person in-charge. Our team trained intensely with challenging choreography and competitions, which forged strong bonds between us. Concurrently, I attended classes at a dance studio, where I was identified as a rising talent and was recruited as a dance instructor eventually.

During National Service, I joined the Music and Dance Company and had the opportunity to train alongside well-known artistes like Nathan Hartono, while receiving formal training in dance and music. My achievements and passion have led me to become a dance judge and competition sponsor thereafter.

What makes you decide to co-own a dance studio ultimately?

After National Service, I worked as a full-time dance instructor for one and a half years. During this time, I began to question whether this career path would provide sufficient income to support my family, given my humble family background and responsibilities at 25 years old. Apparently, it wasn’t.

Subsequently, I transitioned to a full-time day job to stabilise my finances while continuing to pursue my passion as a dance instructor in the evenings. It was during this period that I reconnected with a friend who sparked my interest in co-owning a dance studio – New Heights Dance Studio.

Our goal with this dance studio is to provide a platform for dance community to thrive and see aspiring dancers fulfil their dreams. We have sustained our dance studio successfully for 3 years now.

What are your thoughts on work-life balance vs work-life integration?

I believe that working long hours is unsustainable and meaningless. Family holds significant importance in my life, and I advocate for achieving work-life balance by prioritising quality time with loved ones and allowing personal time for rejuvenation.

Work-life integration, on the other hand, involves weaving work and leisure throughout the day. However, true productivity comes from purposeful time management dedicated to essential work tasks. I would advise young individuals, especially aspiring entrepreneurs, to optimise their finance planning. By doing so, you will have the opportunity to outsource administrative tasks, free up valuable time and prevent burnout.

What is your advice for current students and dreams chaser?

While pursuing your dreams and passion, it may give you the gig income and happiness, but it is important to maintain a meaningful day job to ensure financial stability and security. Do not simply jump on the bandwagon or follow market trend, you need to analyse what is suitable for you in Singapore’s context. For instance, in the IT industry, you ought to differentiate yourself from foreign talents by staying updated and continuously upskilling.