When I was just 15 years old, I was offered an ASEAN Scholarship to complete my O Levels in Singapore. Nervous, excited and somewhat scared, I left my home and family for the Lion City where I attended Catholic High School. At the time, I thought it was the biggest deal of my life, but little did I expect the adventure that followed.
I heard about the CFAB-ACA pathway at Sunway TES from my friends. I was quite sure I wanted to go into the field of finance so I decided to enrol in this programme and took every opportunity to learn as much as I could during classroom lessons, from my friends and tutors, as well as during work-based learning.
Outside the classroom, as President of the ICAEW Student Committee, I was also actively involved in organising various activities, such as: CFAB Exchange, Meet Your Future Employer Forum and many others.
The rigorous ACA training that I underwent accurately simulated the demanding environment that my current role entails. The invaluable programme equipped me with the necessary critical thinking skills, discipline and perseverance to push through any challenges that come my way and has placed me ahead of my peers, allowing me to formulate sound and cogent financial advice.
This opportunity has exposed me to experiences way beyond my years – one that I did not anticipate at the start of my career.
In August 2015, I joined CCM Duopharma Biotech Berhad, a manufacturer, distributor, importer and exporter of pharmaceutical products and medicines as a Finance Executive.
In February 2016, at the tender age of 22, I was fortunate to be seconded as Head of Finance for CCM International (Philippines) and CCM Pharmaceuticals Singapore where I currently advise the Country Coordinator by providing suggestions, implementing cost-containment measures and participating in operations to turnaround the company.
The most exciting part of my job is being able to travel and work in different countries, such as: Indonesia and Singapore. Not only have I assumed roles in unfamiliar and challenging environments, I’ve also been fortunate to immerse myself in new and vibrant cultures around the region.
I would say that nurturing a strong sense of integrity and remaining resilient in the toughest of times has been the key for me to truly follow my heart and chase my dreams.
