You are all about female empowerment – championing women to show up for ourselves and for each other. Was there ever a catalyst that propelled you to be a champion for women of our generation? What is your why?
Absolutely! My “why” stems from personal experiences navigating the challenges of being a woman in today’s world. Whether it was facing glass ceilings or witnessing the untapped potential of women around me, I realized the urgent need for a platform where we can uplift, empower, and celebrate each other. Every woman deserves to feel supported and valued, and that’s what drives me to champion female empowerment and solidarity in our generation. And simply, I think many women are so fabulous and talented they just needed a community to belong and to tell them it’s ok to be ambitious.
CareHer recently hosted its fifth annual International Women’s Day Summit, featuring an impressive list of female (and male) leaders across a diverse array of industries. What is your biggest takeaway from the day’s events and what are you most excited about for women leaders in our community?
The importance of visibility and community support. Which is something commonly mentioned by all of the speakers. Visibility and community support are absolute game-changers for us women in leadership roles, or for those of us aiming to get there. Think about it – when we see other women kicking butt and taking charge, it’s like a spark igniting in us, showing us that we can do it too. It’s like having a cheer squad in our corner, cheering us on when we take those big leaps or face those tough challenges. And you know what’s even better? When we come together as a community, sharing our stories, our struggles, and our successes, it’s like we’re unstoppable. We lift each other up, offer advice, and create a network of support that’s not just about climbing the ladder, but about making sure we all get there – together. It’s about rewriting the rules, smashing those glass ceilings, and showing the world what we’re made of. So yeah, visibility and community support? They’re not just nice-to-haves – they’re the secret sauce that fuels our journey to the top, and beyond.
I have to say, there has historically been a stigma associated with women who “care” about fashion and the art of dressing. Clothing is considered frivolous and you risk getting judged in a professional setting if you demonstrate that you care too much. You don’t seem to have that concern and I love that about you. I think finding and developing your personal style is a practice of self-awareness and critical thinking. Your personal style is a communication tool to express yourself to the outside world. How would you describe your personal style?
You are absolutely right that personal style is a communication tool to express yourself, and I find it fascinating that it not just expresses myself, because I dress differently according to what stage of my life I am at, my style over the years also acts like a reminder for me.
I am very big on colors- and each stage of colors I go through definitely symbolizes something I am focusing on, whether battling subconsciously, or going through challenges or trying to grow to a certain character.
I recently noticed that when I was younger, I tried to become someone else through how I dress- you can say I aspired to become something I am not yet, but also deep down it’s a sign of insecurity and lack of self-identity.
Nowadays, I am much more relaxed on how I present myself through fashion- maybe also because quiet luxury is something I find comfort in. I am more confident now coming into my 40s, so I don’t need to wear statements or a nice power suit to feel “in power”
These days I invest in more sustainable, low-key pieces of clothing, color is still the main reason I purchase, and the fabric and material. I’d say I am currently in my modern chic, classy yet feminine era. More neutral colors, but with one or two accessories to pop a little. I go for comfortness more now, less heels, but to feel relaxed in my own skin.
What are your views on buying second-hand today? If second-hand options are more accessible and available to you, what will cause you to buy second-hand over new?
As a busy female entrepreneur who appreciates fashion but has no time to shop, I hold sustainability and responsible consumption in high regard. Second-hand shopping embodies these values, offering a plethora of benefits beyond just affordability.
Moreover, the accessibility of second-hand options often surprises me. Last month, I found a vintage blazer from a high-end brand in excellent condition in Tokyo. Not only was it a fraction of the price compared to buying new, but it also added a unique flair to my wardrobe, setting me apart in business meetings and networking events.
The thrill of discovering such gems while contributing to the circular economy motivates me to opt for second-hand purchases whenever feasible.
To close, what do you see in the horizon for you both professionally for CareHer and personally for yourself?
Scale is the word on my mind these days- whether it is to scale my leadership, operations or influence. I want to scale CAREhER to Tokyo and Singapore ambitiously yet live my everyday life meaningfully but also at peace and ease. Sounds conflicting, but I guess I will always have fashion to document this journey.