International Women's Day 2014 (Part 2)

8th March 2014, Singapore. Today marks the International Women’s Day (IWD).

To commemorate this special occasion, I had interviewed a couple of women from all walks of life to share their story to everyone.

Some of their story might inspire, motivate, influence or represent each and every woman in Today's society.

Elva Lee is a Buyer, currently Singapore Permanent Residence.

X: Why do you decided to work in Singapore rather than your hometown, Malaysia?

E: I would like to explore more different things and also due to attractive currency conversion rate, which I can earn more money. Furthermore, I also feel that Singapore is much more safer to live in compared to most of the cities.

X: How do you cope with your emotional when you decided to work in Singapore? As you need to give up in living your comfort zone in Malaysia and left your family members behind?

E: In the beginning, I felt very sad and began homesick as I could not get used to the Singapore culture as most of the people in Malaysia communicate in Bahasa Malaysia. While in Singapore, they are using English to communicate.

Partly because in Malaysia, I used to work in the office. But after I arrived in Singapore, my first job was a Management Trainee in one of the hyper supermarket in Singapore.

Both of the jobs that I worked are in different trade and even the working environment are different. So this was quite challenging for me, but for myself, I like to take up new challenges and I could learn more new things.

X: When you just settled down in Singapore, how do you overcome your homesick?

E: I tried to make more friends and seek for activities. I’m very fortunate as one of my colleagues was my schoolmate so I would not feel so lonely.

X: How long did it take for you to settle down in Singapore?

E: It took me about 5 months to settle down in Singapore, one of the good thing is that the food here are almost the same as Malaysia.

X: Did your parents’ encouraged and gave you comfort when you decided to work in Singapore?

E: No, my parents' are against me to work in Singapore and did not encouraged me. Because they thought that distance are way too far from my hometown and they requested me to go back every month. But due to the tight schedule and working environment, I am not able to go back home every month.

X: What is the working culture between Malaysia and Singapore?

E: Singapore is a fast pace country and more efficient than Malaysia. A bit stressful working in Singapore. ☺

X: Do you think that in Today context of society, more women are accepted in higher-ranking position and being respected compared 10 years ago?

E: Yes, Yet, despite many successes in empowering women, numerous issues still exist in all areas of life, ranging from the cultural, political to the economic.

Many women have achieved great things, but there are still those who are struggling and face great difficulties and challenges in their lives.

X:  Do you think that the woman should fight for their dream and their own right?

E: Why not? We are now living in 21st century and women should speak up and fight for their own right?

X: Do you have any encouragement words to all the ladies who wish to work aboard?

E: There are times in our lives when we feel down and out. When we will feel lost and do not know where and how to start from the beginning, always remember that don’t give up easily!

"A woman is like a teabag. It's only when she's in hot water that you realize how strong she is." - Nancy Reagan

International Women's Day 2014 (Part 1)

8th March 2014, Singapore. Today marks the International Women’s Day (IWD).

To commemorate this special occasion, I had interviewed a couple of women from all walks of life to share their story to everyone.

Some of their story might inspire, motivate, influence or represent each and every woman in Today's society.

Sharon Chew is a Sales Director and is happily married with 1 child.

X: How do you cope with your career and your families? Since you need to work and at the same time looking after your cute son?

S: Being a property agent allows me much flexibility in arranging my time. Having strong family support is also very important.

As and when I need to do viewings, my husband, mum and aunty take turns to help look after my son for a while. I try not to bother my mum and aunt too much, so I do my best to be more efficient in my work.

X: Do you think that in Today context of society, more women are accepted in higher-ranking position and being respected compared 10 years ago?

S: Definitely. Women have fought long and hard for more recognition, and I think it is starting to pay off. However, I feel that it is still very much a male-dominated society in the workplace.

X: Do you think that the Mother can actually work to support the family while they left their children to their parent’s/in-law, maid or infantcare/childcare centre to look after?

S: It's really a personal choice, and every mum makes the decision based on her needs and capacity.

We are not comfortable sending our son to an infantcare centre or having a domestic helper to look after him, but I have friends who chose those options and they are doing great.

Some mums don't have much of a choice, as they need to go back to full-time work. Of the 3 options, having our parents to help with our children is definitely the best, but in my case, they are either working or getting on in age, and it's tiring to be running after a 1-year-old the whole day.

I'm blessed in that I am able to stay at home more to look after my son, while my husband carries more of the stress to bring home the moolah.

X: Do you think the public is accepted the mother to breast-feed their child openly in the public?

S: I think they are much more open-minded now. There are more products in the market, such as nursing capes, bras and clothes specially designed to allow breastfeeding mothers to nurse discreetly in public.

I am also very appreciative that there are more and more shopping malls in Singapore that have comfortable nursing rooms.

X: How can we educate the public that breast-feeding is important to the newborn baby?

S: A lot of breastfeeding information is targeted at expectant mothers for now, hence they are usually on motherhood websites, magazines or at hospitals.

I think for the general public to be made more aware, a lot of the advertising has to go out of these spaces to where the general public would be. Eg. at bus stops or cinemas.

X: Do you think that the husband can play an important role to support their wife and take care of the newborn baby together rather than letting their wife to take care all by herself?

S: I think he not only can, but he must! I believe a lot of postnatal depression can be avoided, if the wife receives a lot of support from her husband.

It is a very big transitional period for both, and the husband should not leave his wife to adapt to it alone.

Besides, he would be missing out on a very good opportunity to score points with his wife and bond with his child.

My husband took turns with me to wake up for our son's night feeds, so I could get some much-needed rest, and he bathed our son every morning for quite a few months, until he had to start leaving earlier for work.

Even though he's out running for work most of the week, he still looks after him on Saturdays so I can get some time to myself. Looking after a toddler 24/7 can make you want to go nuts sometimes, and it helps to get some time out.

My husband also bathes our son during the weekends, as that allows him some more father-son bonding time.

X: Do you think that Singapore Company have improved and treat their pregnant employee equally?

S: I think the initiatives from the Singapore government have helped companies to improve in the way they take care of their pregnant employees.

Having said that, I do applaud those companies that care enough to carve out breastfeeding rooms, and set up nursery services for their employees.

X: Do you think that having a kid is a burden to you? As nowadays many new wedding couple do not want to start up a family.

S: Well, many of the things we used to do, we find it more inconvenient to do them now. Not impossible, but they just require more planning and adjusting of expectations.

For example, we used to take off for movies anytime we wanted, but now, we need to arrange for my mum to babysit our son on our date nights.

If we take him along for movies, we are prepared to take turns to carry him outside of the screening hall if he starts making noise.

He doesn't cry often, but he does try to talk to the characters on screen because he thinks they are talking to him!

However, the little inconveniences are a small price to pay for the joy that our son brings to us and our families.

X: What is your greatest moment with your cute son?

S: At his current stage, he is picking up things very quickly, and I go from great moments to great moments! My favorite moments are when he looks right at me, gives me a smile, and touches my face.

X: Do you think that you can inspire other women’s out there? Why?

S: At some points in my life, I may be an inspiration to someone, at other points, I am inspired by others. I think every woman is an inspiration to someone else, if we take the time to listen to her story.

I know so many women who have been through so much, yet they don't think of themselves as anything extraordinary.

To them, they are just getting through one day at a time, by putting one foot in front of the other.

X: Do you have any encouragement words to the reader?

S: To the women, you don't have to try and be tougher than the men. Being a woman is strong enough in itself.

X: Thank you for your time for accepting my interview.

S: My pleasure! Thanks for asking me!

This Article supported by:

#lifewithoutlimits

#LWOL

Movement by 77th Street

[EXCLUSIVE] Elvin Law Interview, Manhunt Singapore 2014 Contestant

Elvin Law, 34, standing at 188cm, 67kg. He is one of the contestant that will be taking part in Manhunt Singapore 2014. I am very fortunate to interview Elvin and will share to all readers why he join this Manhunt Singapore 2014 contest?

Hello Elvin, Thank you for accepting my interview with you! Elvin, tell us more about yourself.

I pursue perfection and when my mind is set on doing something, I wouldn't back out once I embark on it. Definitely not a social butterfly, so many people will find me quiet and reserved. But when I am with closer friends, the other side of me will show. But Definitely, a pleasant person. :)

What makes you to join Manhunt Singapore 2014?

I was referred by a friend and thought at my age if someone thinks I have what it takes, why not? Give myself exposure to the media world and how it feels when all attention are on you!! 'Experience' sums it up.

How is your preparation for this upcoming Manhunt Singapore 2014?

Workout, eating clean and rest well!

Who is your most important person in your life and go through all the process with you?

I usually keep many things to myself and beside my parent's who always gives me support in all I do, I would think the inner me is my next most important person who went through every process with me.

How long you been to the gym?

I started 6 years ago.

What makes you to inspire to gym?

Because of the sports I took part, I need to build the strength I required.

Do you think you can inspire people? Why?

I hope I can, not everyone, but definitely some along the way. Because if I realise I am beginning to set out to inspire someone, I will go all out to get it done!!

Now everyone would love to know this especially to the girls! Are you Single or are you attached?

I am currently Single.

Wow I am sure many girls will be very happy to know about it!!

=)

I understand that you joined Dragon Boat. How long have you been paddler?

Yes! I have been padding for 9 years!

Who introduced this sport to you?

After I graduated and started my first job, I decided I need to find some sports activities to keep myself healthy. Through a conversation with a friend, I try out the sports.

Tell us what is the training like for Dragon Boat?

Minimum 2 hours under the sun and your best friend will be the water, boat and your paddle. Gym and land training are crucial too.

What kind of sport do you like as well?

I like team sport, and I am a regular volleyball player before I started dragon boating.

If you have the chance to be celebrity in the entertainment industry, are you keen and why?

Why not? It will be a different world altogether and its definitely a good experience to explore the road less travelled.

What makes you to be so special/unique?

Physically taller than the average human around?

<Conclusion Note>

When I first met Elvin, I admitted that he is very tall! As what he mentioned he's very introverted personality but once you know him better, he can actually share more things to you.

I can sense that Elvin have a great charismatic and he present himself very well. He loves and very passionate on his Dragon Boat and no matter what it takes, he will make it effort to train with his peers.

Elvin Law need your support! Please show your support by voting for him for his Senior Manhunt Singapore 2014.

Please click here to vote for Elvin. Please note that each vote cost you SGD$11.00 (USD$9.00). Voting closes on 11 September 2014, 1700 hours (SINGAPORE TIME GMT +0800).

Every vote counts and it is very important to him.

Do you have any encouragement message to Elvin on his upcoming manhunt Singapore 2014? You may leave down your message here and I will pass all your encouragement messages to Elvin.

Please click here to view more of Elvin's photos.

[EXCLUSIVE] Khalis Fitri Interview, Manhunt Singapore 2014 Contestant

Khalis Fitri is 24 year old, standing at 1.74m, 65kg. He will be taking part in Manhunt Singapore 2014 this year. How well do you know/understand him and what makes Khalis Fitri to join the Manhunt Singapore 2014?

I am very fortunate to have exclusive interview with Khalis Fitri, Manhunt Singapore 2014 contestant.

Below are the exclusive interview with Khalis Fitri.

Tell us more about yourself?

I am currently working Full Time as an Operation Technician. I am more of a quiet kind of person and my hobby is to hit to the gym!!

What makes you to join Manhunt Singapore 2014?

Firstly, I was challenged by my younger brother which was also a finalist in Manhunt Singapore 2012. Secondly, I would like to gain more exposure and also make friends and have fun at the same time!

What is your preparation for this coming Manhunt Singapore 2014?

Going all clean in term of food consumption and also train on my public speaking as I have stage fright!

How long have you been to the gym?

Around 3 years plus.

Who inspired you to the gym and how the person did?

My brother! I was skinny then. When I see my brother bulking up with those muscles, I get Jealous! So I decided to go to the gym with him!!

Do you think you can inspire people? Why?

Yes! I can inspire people! Going to the gym for an hour a day doesn't kill you! When you have a will, there's always a way!

I am sure many people would love to know this!!

Are you single or Attached??

I am attached!

Who is your most important person in life and go through all the process with you?

It would be my family and my one and only girlfriend!

I understand that you had taken part in Mediacorp Suria Drama, 'DI LUAR GARISAN'.

Can you tell us your character that you had taken part and what was your experience in filming?

My character was being a Police Officer.

The experience was great and at the same time overcome the fear of camera shooting/filming at you!

If you have the chance to be celebrity in the Entertainment industry, are you keen and why?

Definitely. Its like you can see different things everyday! Scenes, People etc.

What makes you to be so special/ unique?

Thank God which have given me this special/ unique look. Everyone has its beauty in their own way. But what I like most is my smile. People said that I got that charming smile!

<Conclusion Note>

During the interview with Khalis Fitri, I can felt his sincerity from his bottom of his heart, a kind, friendly, polite and sense of humour personality.

Khalis Fitri is very charming guy as he got the charming smile that makes him to be extremely friendly and easy to approach person! He is very fit too! Those who know him well definitely will agree to me!

Khalis Fitri need your support! Please show your support by voting for him for his Manhunt Singapore 2014. He is contestant number 1! Every vote counts and it is very important to him!

If you have any encouragement message that you want to let Khalis Fitri know, you can leave the comment below and I will send all your wishes to him!

Visit to my Facebook Page here to view more photos of Khalis Fitri.

[EXCLUSIVE] Preston Leen Interview, Most Promising Star for Mister International Malaysia

Preston Leen earned himself Most Promising Star for Mister International Malaysia (MIM) Pageant Competition which was held at Butter Factory, Kuala Lumpur on Friday night, 10th October 2013.

Preston Currently 25 years old, standing at 180cm and weight 68Kg. Currently lives in Kuala Lumpur, West Malaysia. He was from the State of Penang.

I am very privileged to have exclusive interview with Preston Leen. Where he took some time just to answer my inquiries.

Tell us more about yourself!

I’m an Art Director, I’m dealing with art related work, inclusive of art direction, creative design, photography and fashion styling. All of these made my life a passion.

What makes you of joining MIM 2013?

This is my new experience of joining competition (pageant) like this. I’ve been modelling for 8 years and I think it’s time for me to present myself on stage for all grounded show. It needs physical plus mental ability to showcase myself.

What was your feeling at that time when you need to compete with 13 of the contestants?

It was an awesome experience, especially meeting with different personality, hobbies, and their passions. We learned how to communicate with new mate, but not competing with each other. It’s a process of improvement in the social world.

What was your thought when you won Mister Promising Star 2013 title?

I was feeling calm (luckily was not shocked) because in my mind I’ve been thinking to get standby no matter what was the outcome of the result. It was a surprised for me but I need to control my mind so I will look good all the times.

Who helped and encouraged you throughout the whole process?

Throughout the process, firstly I need to send my gratitude of appreciation to my life buddies Lim Wei Sin, Tayri Tay, Joe Ong and Chow. Without them, I wouldn’t have stand on the stage. They encouraged me throughout the whole programme, consult and motivate me.

Secondly, I will need to thank my partner Merveen for giving me confidence and helped me on my talent performance practises. She spent a lot of precious time in my competition, what else can I request?

Last but not least, the special guy whom I have just met, Xavier Kent. He travelled all the way from Singapore just to support me as his brotherhood. I’m touched with his action and it makes me feels awesome on myself!

Special thanks to Audreypuiyan, a beautiful blogger & dancer who has agreed to be my talent partner. She has done a well job, and eases my nerves!

If you have the chance to be celebrity in the entertainment industry, are you keen and why?

In the past, I did let go multiple times of golden opportunity to be an artist due to my work & career. I will not let it go this time round, if I get to hold the chance again.

It’s time for me to travel further in this industry and experience the life beyond my expectation. The value and thoughts are the most precious elements for me now.

Who inspired you the most?

The people inspired me the most is Eminem. I’ve been listening to his songs since secondary school and the way he expressed his life and mood in the lyrics is unique.

It is unbeatable and it motivates me all the times when I decided to move or leave. It is real, hip, and tremendous impact in my life.

What is your encouragement words for those who wish to join MIM 2014?

If you end up with a boring miserable life because you listened to your mom, your dad, your teacher, your priest, or some guy on television telling you how to do your sh**, then you deserve it. Never be bullied into silence.

Never allow yourself to be made a victim. Accept no one's definition of your life, but define yourself.

<Conclusion Note>

Preston is a very talented and gifted guy. He is good in creative design, photography and he also know what is the latest fashion trends. What more, he sing very well! If you need a piece of fashion advice, you could simply look for him and he will guide you through!

At the age of 25, he is a ART director and own a company known as PEOPLEGRAPHY! Are you impressed by him?

For the first impression, you might thought that Preston is a fierce person. But when time goes by, you can feel that he is very sincerity, kind hearted and friendly person. He is someone whom you can trust.

You can like his facebook page, Peoplegraphy here!

[EXCLUSIVE] James Ng Interview, Grand Winner for Mister International Malaysia

James Ng Yin Teng won the Grand Winning of the Mister International Malaysia (MIM) Pageant Competition which was held at Butter Factory, Kuala Lumpur on Friday night, 10th October 2013.

James Ng, 20, standing at 187cm, 89Kg, currently a student, lives in Kuala Lumpur, West Malaysia. He had took part many competitions in his homeland and won several awards.

I am very privileged to have exclusive interview with James Ng, the newly crown in MIM 2013 and also represent his home country to compete in Mister International Grand Final which will be held in Jakarta, Indonesia.

What makes you of joining MIM 2013?

I joined MIM for all the right reasons. I want to inspire people to live a healthy lifestyle. And I believe that MIM 2013 is one of the most prestigious male pageant.

The main reason of me joining MIM 2013, because I personally seek to improve the lives of others.

What was your feeling at that time when you need to compete with 13 of the contestants?

I felt very proud of myself to represent my hometown, Selangor (One of the 14 States in Malaysia) and it was an honour to be able to compete with these guys. These guys are all tall, good looking and have great personality of their own.

However, I believe that focusing on main purpose of joining MIM is all I have to do rather than comparing physique, popularity, and strength with the other 13 finalist.

When the host called out your name that you are within top 5th, are you surprised? Why?

When the host called my name. To be honest with you, I wasn't that surprised, but I was really very happy knowing that I have at least made it to the top 5 & I was a step closer to being the next Mister International Malaysia 2013.

Who was your strongest opponent?

The finalist that I felt who was very competitive are Mister Penang- Preston, Mister Sabah- Lucas, and Mister Perak- Kenneth.

What makes you to be so charming that you won a title as Mister Clique Charming?

HAHA! To be charming, you got to SMILE! I have been smiling my way throughout the competition and on stage! I believe that when you smile, everything becomes charming.

You also won a title of Cheetah Best Body, do you always have such a great body since young?

No, I don't have a great body when I was young. I was a fat kid when I was young. Life is fair, you got to earn it to achive it.

When the host announced that you are the winner for MIM and all eyes on you, what was your thought at that time?

My mind right away was channeled on thinking about the preparation for Mister International 2013 grand final round in Jakarta, Indonesia.

At the time of point, do you feel that you are going to win the title of MIM and represent Malaysia to compete with the Mister International contestants which will be held at Jakarta, Indonesia? If no, why?

Was in my mind all the time, even before the competition begins, I already plan ahead!

At Hennesy Artistry Event.

The Malaysian choose you to represent the country to compete with other contestants in Indonesia, what is your preparation to win and any words to your supporters?

Diet, Exercise and Public Speaking. I commit myself to train twice a day, 7 days a week and eat clean food. I will practice in front of the mirror to improve my communication skills.

To all my beloved supporters, please do continue to support me, encouraging me, perhaps giving me tips and advise on improving the 3 main elements! I would really appreciate that!

If people criticise on you, how are you going to prove it to them and what will be your reaction?

There will always be hatters, no matter what I do. I do not have to prove them anything, because I am certain that I competing not to show off to anyone but to humble myself, to serve with a kind and genuine heart.

When you are young, are you rebellious or introverted personality? Can tell us more on your childhood?

When I was younger, I was rather shy and quiet. I have stage fright, I have problems communicating with the opposite gender, I kept things to myself and never express how I really feel.

I am not rebellious at all. I was a fat kid, due to excessive eating of Pizza Hut, McDonalds, KFC and Local delights, such as the 'Nyonya Kuih' (South East Asia Local delight), 'Yao Char Kuai' (油條), and all sorts of fried food you can find in the 'Pasar Malam' (Night Bazaar).

I used to consume 'Nasi Lemak' (Malay Coconut Rice) with fried chicken in the morning together with my favourite Drink, 'Ice MILO'! I just love to eat, even now! There is so much about my childhood memory!

How the contest helped you?

The contest help me to set goals. Goal setting is the key to obtain a great physique. It also keeps me motivated and stay focus. This competition allows me to meet a lot of people and once you are in it, you are forced to stand in front of the massive crowds and to speak well and showcase yourself! :)

Who is your important person in your life and go through all the process with you?

My family, mainly my Mummy! To begin with, she is the one who emphasize healthy eating, don't be choosy on eating, eat everything, don't waste food, think about the unfortunate people around the world, eat organic food, eat more vegetables and fruits and exercise more.

I use to call her a nagger, but today I am extremely grateful to her! There is so much more to say about my Mummy, I could write a book about her!

Haha! In this competition, she spend time looking for the best quality food, such as organic fruits and vegetables, kampong eggs & chicken, and fresh fish. She also does facial for me cause I have a bad skin.

Do you have sad moments in your life and how you overcome it?

Yes I do have sad moments. people get upset and frustrated. my method is simple. think about the great and wonderful stuff that have happened to you. And if you are mad, pist, or upset with a friend or family, don't fight!

Just give yourself some space with that person and think about the good stuff he/she have done for you. After that find out why that person make you upset. Because everyone has their own personal issue and problems to solve.

If the is no valid reasons at all, SMASH it in the weight room! Cause I believe fighting can solve nothing!

I am sure many people wanted to know this, Are you single or attached?

Its' complicated :)

Who inspired you and why?

I draw my inspiration everywhere and from many people. Mainly the people around me. People who are hardworking, kind, generous, caring, have a great physique yet humble and willing to share. I mainly get inspired by people who has so little but wants to achieve so much!

For example a world class international fitness model Lazar Angelov. He came from an unfortunate background where even food was insufficient, however he decided to focus on bodybuilding which is a very expensive sports. and now he made it!

Nobody is perfect!

I will look in to the personal character and evaluate what this person has and willing to offer.

Do you think you can inspire others? Why?

Yes, I can inspire others and that is the whole purpose I participate in this competition. I am willing to share my knowledge and inspire others to live a healthy lifestyle.

I believe that in order to inspire other, myself have to achieve something and tell other that they can do it to by many ways! each and everyone have their own unique ability.

If you have the opportunity to join the entertainment industry, are you willing to take up the offer and why?

Yes, I would take the opportunity, but it will be base on my limitations, I want to pursue my dreams which is to inspire people to exercise, eat right, mainly live a healthy and positive life and be humble!

Any encouragement words to people who wish to join MIM 2014?

Join for the right reason!

Not for fame, money, or a status to boast and hookup chicks. But to motivate and inspire younger generations to live a healthy lifestyle. Beauty opens door to opportunity, but beauty with a purpose opens mind and heart. :)

<Conclusion Note>

Basically, I can sense that James is a confident and yet humble guy who willing to share his knowledge and help other to live a healthy lifestyle. James is a filial guy who loves his family and especially to his mother.

Although James is a very tall guy but he is down to earth personality and he treasure every moment that surround him. I guess many people will be attracted by him for his charming killer look!

James Ng will be represent Malaysia for the Grand Final of Mister International which will be held on 21st November 2013,  Jakarta, Indonesia. Please show your support and encourage him!

If you would like to show your support, you can leave the comment below and I will send all your wishes to James.

If you would like to read the event coverage which was held at Butter Factory on 10th October 2013, you may wish to click here.