Spirit of Enterprise

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SPIRIT OF ENTERPRISE 2014

SOE-NEXIA TSENTREPRENEUR

OF THE YEAR 2014

Commonwealth Capital pte ltd

Building great Brands that nourish the world

ANdREw KwAN“Entrepreneurs by nature do not see problems per se,

but solutions and opportunities in

every problem presented.”

ENTERPRISEspirit of issue 2

SPIRIT OF ENTERPRISE 2014EDITOR’S

NOTEA mission to Honour and Inspire has always guided SOE. It has shaped our programmes and policies through the past and continues to be instrumental in taking us into a brighter future.

Entrepreneurship is not just a profession; it is also a quality we find in unexpected places and people. Every year, SOE honours both its practice and its spirit, in the year’s finest entrepreneurs as well as those who are on the cusp of the working world. As we move into our 12th year, SOE gathers once more to honour the best of the entrepreneurial spirit in all its guises.

In many ways, every demonstration of the entrepreneurial spirit is a pioneering one. It is a unique expression of vision, tenacity and willpower. This year we bring to you a first of our very own: a custom-made crystal trophy shaped like our signature logo.

These trophies pay tribute to our 31 honourees and our SOE-NEXIA TS Entrepreneur of the Year winner Andrew Kwan. They have all, in various ways, demonstrated exemplary instances of the Spirit of Enterprise -- that quality that makes it possible for those who possess it to continue to challenge the business landscape, year after year.

Hear some of their stories, and see how our programmes have evolved. do continue with us on our journey together, as we continue to honour and inspire the entrepreneurial spirit in our present and in our future.

Yours sincerely,Sa’at Ismail

A SpOTlIghT ON yOuR cOmpANywe want to know all about you!

Give us the straight story: [email protected]

EDITORIAl

EditorSa’at Ismail

ContributorsThomas FernandezRachel M.K. Wong Cheryl T. HansenSerene Pan

writer Jennifer Lew

Art director Lim Chen Yang

designers Evilyn Loek Raziman Baharudin Shenesse Yeo

Spirit of Enterprise ISSN 2345-7414 is published once a year by Silicon+. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All infomation are correct at the time of print, but may be subject to change.

For more information, please visitwww.soe.org.sg

AccOuNT SERvIcINg Silicon+ Communications Vinitha Prasad

cORRESpONDENTSOE SecretariatJenny [email protected]

pRINTER Winson Press Pte Ltd

CONTENTS

02 Inspiring a Vibrant Entrepreneurial Community

03 Passing the Flame

04 SOE Board of Governors 2014

06 Giving a Voice to Entrepreneurship

08 To Honour And Inspire

10 SOE Awards 2014 dinner Programme

14 SOE Honourees 2014

24 SOE-Nexia TS Entrepreneur of the Year 2014

26 SOE Nominees 2014

27 SOE Student Interviewers 2014

28 different Schools of Thought

29 Taking the Lion’s Share

30 Nurturing Tomorrow’s Innovators

Start-Up. Grow Rich. Sustain the Business. Make a Difference.

The annual SOE book details the inspiring journeys of SOE Award honourees, and tells the story of their journeys in entrepreneurship. Grab your copy today, and get inspired. Available at all major bookstores and SOE events.

To leave your own legacy behind, contact publisher Cheryl T. Hansen at [email protected]

THE SOE BOOK

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inspiring a ViBrant entrepreneurial CommunitY“Every successful entrepreneur has faced numerous challenges on the road to success.”

GUEST-OF-HONOUR

LEE YI SHYANSenior Minister of State,Ministry of Trade and Industry

Over the past 12 years, the SOE Awards has honoured outstanding entrepreneurs and their accomplishments. Many of them have had humble beginnings but that has not prevented them from thinking big. Their lack of resources and limitations of circumstance have not deterred them from wanting to achieve and creating breakthroughs.

In a similar way, the spirit of enterprise has driven this country’s growth -- from a little trading port to a global city with a sophisticated economy, offering business opportunities, full employment and endearing homes. The sustained growth of Singapore in the past five decades has created many successful enterprises, many of them with regional and even global reach.

As we celebrate SG50, we also reflect on the values that have brought our nation

and society to where we are today. Our purpose, the desire to preserve the continued security and success of our tiny city state, and our conviction that every Singaporean have a chance to succeed when he or she works hard, continues to inspire all of us, especially future generations, to attempt great things for this small country. All of such efforts will help to create wealth and new jobs for the economy, and a better economic future for Singapore.

I give my heartiest congratulations to all the honourees of the SOE Awards 2014, and I hope that they, who personify many of the great values that have shaped the success of Singapore, will inspire many would-be entrepreneurs to carve out new niches in realising their dreams.

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passing the flame

that. we always aim to give back to society and develop our next generation of entrepreneurs. we do this because promoting entrepreneurship in our country is our passion.

As entrepreneurs who invest in our own businesses, the SOE Board of Governors believes in investing in the future -- by planting seeds in young minds and guiding them. SOE has actively promoted entrepreneurship among the young over the years through its Student Entrepreneur and Student Interviewer Programmes. Our mentorship programmes

and entrepreneurship talks also reach out to young people, enhancing their characters and competencies in preparation for whatever future endeavours they may choose to pursue.

None of these advocacies would have materialised if not for the support of our partners. we give our greatest appreciation to our Friends of SOE: Nexia-TS, Credit Suisse and CHARLES & KEITH. we are also extremely grateful to our bursary sponsor, Michael Sengol; and SOE Awards Main Sponsors, VISA and Pernod Ricard Singapore. To our past honourees and board

why is it important to promote entrepreneurship? This is one of our guiding questions whenever we interview an entrepreneur for the SOE Awards.

And we hear a different answer from every entrepreneur we interview, but what remains constant are the multiple voices we hear in support of what we continue to try to achieve, year after year.

Since 2003, SOE has been an advocate of support for home-grown entrepreneurs who are active change-makers and innovators, recognising their achievements in their respective industries. Innovation and creativity are key to sustainability in this restructuring economy.

This year, we give due credit to our 31 honourees for their excellent ideas, and for sharing their exemplary stories with us. It is truly an inspiration to see that they have managed to turn their ideas into reality and cross the hurdles they have faced on their entrepreneurial journeys.

Growth is often equated with progress and success. But at SOE it is more than

THOMAS FERNANDEZCEO, PestBusters

SOE PRESIDENT

members who have actively participated in our activities -- we thank you. Your immense belief in and support of SOE has constantly motivated us to honour and inspire.

It is an honour for SOE to work with our outstanding entrepreneurs and to help them to reach even greater heights. we hope that in our own small way, we can drive the entrepreneurial spirit so that it may reach ever more individuals and inspire them to make their dreams reality.

Cheers to a brighter future ahead of us!

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BOARD MEMBERCHARLES WONG Managing Director, Charles & Keith

BOARD MEMBERSHAREL HOManaging Director,Jewels Defred Pte Ltd

TREASuRERSAMuEL YIKManaging Director, Y.E.S F&B Group Pte Ltd (Dian Xiao Er)

PRESIDENTTHOMAS FERNANDEZCEO, Pest Busters Pte Ltd

VICE PRESIDENTRACHEL M. K. WONGManaging Director, Marunda Utama Engineering Pte Ltd

HONORARY CHAIRMANGOH KAI KuIManaging Director, Goh Joo Hin Pte Ltd

IIMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENTLEE SOO CHYE Partner, Aequitas Law LLP

BOARD MEMBERHARISH NIMCEO, Emerio GlobeSoft Pte Ltd

CHAIRMAN - SOE SEP NICHOLAS GOH CEO and Founder, Verztec Consulting Pte Ltd

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Board of goVernorsspirit of enterprise 2014

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CHAIRWOMAN - SOE TALK GRACE CHONG TAN Managing Director, Smile Inc. Dental Surgeons

CHAIRMAN - SOE AWARDS SA’AT ISMAIL Creative Director and Founder, Silicon+ Communications Pte Ltd

BOARD MEMBERRINA LIMManaging Director, Quirk Pte Ltd

BOARD MEMBERKRISTIN KIMDirector, Nexia TS

CHAIRWOMAN - SOE BOOKCHERYL T. HANSEN Managing Director, C. T. Hansen International Pte Ltd

BOARD MEMBERLOW CHEONG KEE Managing Director, Home-Fix D.I.Y. Pte Ltd

BOARD MEMBERPROF CHAN YOKE KAIHead of Accountancy Programme, SIM University

CHAIRWOMAN - SOE GOLFDONNA LEE Founder & CEO, KinderGolf Pte Ltd

BOARD MEMBERWONG HONG TING Co-Founder, 2359 Media Pte Ltd

BOARD MEMBERSERENE PAN Commercial Director, Envocycle Pte Ltd

BOARD MEMBER TONY SEOW Managing Director, Purple Sage Pte Ltd

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GIVING A VoICE To

IN SINGAPoRE

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SOE Awards Annual SOE event where SMEs are honoured for their achievements at the SOE Annual Awards Ceremony.

Student Interviewer Programme SOE collaborates with local tertiary institutions to offer students the chance to interview outstanding local entrepreneurs and learn from their success stories. From the pool of interviewees, the Secretariat will select the year’s SOE-CHARLES & KEITH Best Student Interviewer.

Student Entrepreneurship Programme SOE introduces primary and secondary school students to entrepreneurship basics with life lessons and simulated business activites.

SOE Book Each year SOE distributes a book packed with practical stories and guidance on entrepreneurship based on interviews conducted with SOE award nominees. It is distributed to local schools and also available at leading bookstores and libraries.

SOE Fundraising Golf Challenge Being a non-profit organisation, SOE raises funds through its annual golf tournament. It creates a networking platform and business opportunities within the group.

soe runs the following ongoing and sustainable programmes to both honour and inspire.

Spirit of Enterprise (SOE) was founded in 2002 to cultivate an active entrepreneurial culture in Singapore. SOE does this by recognising the accomplishments of local entrepreneurs operating small and medium-sized businesses. It also seeks to inspire young Singaporeans, especially students, to become entrepreneurs through interaction,

communication and knowledge sharing between students, entrepreneurs and members of the general public. SOE is funded by the private sector. The Board of Governors consists of established entrepreneurs, corporate senior management, students, and public service and political leaders.

NURTURING ENTREPRENEURSHIP

ISlaNDwIDE

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Held annually to honour noteworthy achievements in the local entrepreneurial scene, the SOE Awards shines a light on exemplary businesspeople. The SOE Awards also invites tomorrow’s entrepreneurs to recognise today’s as inspirations. Since its inauguration in 2003, more than 360 honourees have been recognised at the annual SOE dinner.

Honourees are shortlisted through student nominations and interviews; both these processes

allow student interviewers to determine which qualities are preeminent in entrepreneurs who exemplify the spirit of enterprise. This places the perspectives of future generations at the fore, allowing them to play a part in deciding what and who – inspire all of us. It also allows entrepreneurs to act as mentors, share their experiences as well as represent the diversity of experiences in the entrepreneurial landscape in Singapore.

influential sme leadership Continues to serVe

as a deep and powerful inspiration in singapore,

one of the smallest nations in the world

and simultaneouslY one of the world’s most

important CommerCial huBs.

to honour and inspirethe soe awards 2014

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After reviewing the interview transcripts submitted by the student interviewers, the SOE Secretariat selects the year’s honourees. Their journey culminates at the SOE Awards, where chosen honourees are awarded a certificate and a trophy. Student interviewers who have demonstrated excellence in research and in-depth reporting also stand to receive the SOE-CHARLES & KEITH Best Student Interviewer Award at the SOE Awards.

This year’s honourees run the gamut from an award-winning creative agency to a leading supplier for hygiene and disinfection technology. Some are environmentally sustainable, others delectable -- all of them believe in building brands that offer valuable experiences and services.

we look to these companies as great examples of excellence in their fields, and inspirations to all of us.

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5:45 PM arrival and registration

6:00 PM networking and Cocktails

7:30 PM welcome address by president of soe thomas fernandez

7:35 PM speech by guest-of-honour lee Yi shyan, senior minister of state, ministry of trade and industry

7:50 PM Citation for the soe-nexia ts entrepreneur of the Year award 2014 Ong Tze Boon, SOE-Nexia TS Entrepreneur of the Year 2013

8:00 PM speech by soe-nexia ts entrepreneur of the Year 2014 Andrew Kwan, Group Managing Director, Commonwealth Capital Pte Ltd

8:10 PM presentation of awards to soe honourees 2014

8:55 PM soe student entrepreneur programme Video presentation

presentation of token of appreciation to friends of soe & partners Thomas Fernandez, President, SOE

9:05 PM Book presentation to featured entrepreneurs – Cheryl T. Hansen, Chairman, SOE Book

9:20 PM presentation of soe-Charles & Keith Best student interviewer award 2014 Keith Wong, COO, Charles & Keith and Rachel Wong, Vice President, SOE

9:25 PM speech by soe-Charles & Keith Best student interviewers 2014 Manorama Singh, Singapore Management University Kelyn Tan, SIM-University of Birmingham

9:35 PM announcement of soe-michael sengol study grant 2015 recipients

9:40PM Closing remarks Rachel M.K. Wong, SOE Vice President

9:45 PM end of programme - networking

soe awards 2014 dinner programme

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Reza BehnamFOUNDER & CEO

ADZ CENTRAL

AdzCentral (AdZ) is a Scientific Media Buying company. AdZ manages clients’ audience profile data and digital advertising budgets. It allocates media spending across multiple platforms, formats, devices, and channels using an algorithmic-driven approach.

Bernard OhCEO

THE AuDIENCE MOTIVATION COMPANY ASIA PTE LTD

At the Audience Motivation Company Asia (AMC! Asia) are an events management and marketing strategy team for brands seeking to establish and maintain presence in the region.

Chris Lee CEO

ASYLuM CREATIVE PTE LTD

Asylum Creative is an agency comprising design studio, retail shop, workshop and record label. It takes a multidisciplinary creative approach by integrating branding and spatial design.

HONOUREES Every year, tertiary students nominate outstanding entrepreneurs whose achievements inspire others to take bold steps towards realising an enterprise dream of their own. SOE Honourees represent courage, perseverance, and innovation – qualities that young Singaporeans may look up to as they undertake their own entrepreneurial journeys.

We are proud to present the SOE honourees of 2014. We hope that their stories inspire you to cultivate a Spirit of Enterprise of your very own.

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Thian ZhiwenDIRECTOR

BLOOMERANG PTE LTD

Bloomerang transforms clothes hangers into novel, eco-friendly advertising mediums. To date, Bloomerang has replaced some 60,000 plastic hangers with recycled and 100% biodegradable paper board and cardboard eco-hangers, which are completely recyclable.

Sim Eng TongCHIEF ExECUTIVE OFFICER

BIOMAx TECHNOLOGIES PTE LTD

Biomax Technologies is an environmentally sustainable producer of eco-friendly quality fertilisers from food waste, and uses technology that does not harm the environment.

Eileen YapDIRECTOR

BREATHIN’ BRAND

Noël Caleb dresses the confident, modern woman who embodies a gracious spirit, confidence in her own abilities and the pursuit of her dreams. For she who wishes to show femininity and creativity, Noël Caleb’s designs are edgy yet practical, colourful yet wearable, adventurous yet adaptable.

Martin SkypermanMANAGING DIRECTOR

CAVI-JET (S) PTE LTD

Cavi-Jet started out in the marine industry, but later shifted its focus to F&B, setting up Singapore’s first Churrascaria, more commonly known as Brazilian barbecue. Brazil Churrasco’s flagship outlet opened at Sixth Avenue in 1994, and brings a truly authentic Brazilian dining experience to the table.

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Ronald PangMANAGING DIRECTOR

CLARITI HEARING CARE

Clariti aims to improve the quality of customers’ lives through the improvement of their hearing. Clariti prescribes only hearing aid brands with the latest technologies and provides professional hearing solutions with a personal touch.

Goh Teck TingMANAGING DIRECTOR

CHLOROS SOLuTIONS PTE LTD

Chloros Solutions Pte Ltd delivers premium customised green solutions to suit client needs. It also raises environmental awareness among students in Singapore, as every small step makes a difference.

Mícheál CollinsDIRECTOR

CKA MEDIA AND TRAINING CENTRE PTE LTD

Prep Zone is one of Singapore’s largest and most acclaimed test prep and admissions consulting companies. A creator of unique technologies, content and methodologies that directly address the demands of standardised testing, Prep Zone maximises chances of success in admissions into the world’s top universities and business schools.

Nagitha KumarasingheDIRECTOR

Karanveer Singh BajajDIRECTOR

COMPuTER ANALYST AND RECOVERY ExPERTS PTE LTD

Computer Analysts & Recovery Experts Pte Ltd (CARE) is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner specialising in customised IT Outsourcing Solutions. CARE helps its clients increase productivity and efficiency by tailoring its services to suit any organisation’s IT structure.

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Grace LimExECUTIVE DIRECTOR

EAGLE SuCCESS PTE LTD

Eagle Success Pte Ltd teaches entrepreneurs how to manage capital and prepare their companies for an Initial Public Offering (IPO) within three years time. It also connects clients to venture capital funding.Amanda Koo

DIRECTRESS

ECLARITY

eClarity is the region’s most promising online diamond jeweller, recognised for its professional consultation, large database of certified diamonds and competitive prices. eClarity has a team of professional personnel who inspect diamonds, identify gemstones, and handcraft customised wedding bands and diamond bridal jewellery.

Kelvin LeeMANAGING DIRECTOR

DATAVOICE TECHNOLOGY PTE LTD

datavoice Technology Pte Ltd is a leading player in the structured cabling, PABX, audiovisual and security industries. delivering customised, quality service to customers has been key to its success over the years. Today, the company continues to deliver innovative communication solutions that exceed expectations.

Dato’ Dr Charles ChenGROUP CHAIRMAN

FOODNET CONSuLTANTS PTE LTD

FoodNet Consultants Pte Ltd is a one stop solutions provider for the food industries. It is a specialist trainer and consultant serving food manufacturers, restaurants, food services, logistics hubs, cold chains, food caterers, canteens, packaging materials manufacturers, food grade sanitising chemicals manufacturers, pharmaceutical manufacturers, supermarkets and farms.

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Francis NgOWNER

HOuSE OF SEAFOOD PTE LTD

The House of Seafood is best known for ‘The Best Pepper Crab in Singapore’, as voted by customers. Offering a wide array of exquisite and mouthwatering dishes, The House of Seafood gratifies the taste buds.

Danny TeoMANAGING DIRECTOR

GAIN CITY BEST ELECTRIC PTE LTD

Gain City Best Electric provides the best service and bargains for its customers. It anticipates and exceeds expectations, building long term relationships and setting standards for both its customers and staff.

Vincent HaCEO, CO-FOUNDER

GuSHCLOuD PTE LTD

Gushcloud is the leading celebrity and influencer marketing network in Southeast Asia. Gushcloud has managed more than 1,000 influencer marketing campaigns for 250 clients over the last three years, helping leading brands to reach, engage and excite their target audience.

Joshua LungFOUNDER, CEO

HEALING TOuCH

Healing Touch provides natural healing and therapeutic touch with only products made from natural ingredients of the purest quality. Every therapy session devotes special attention to pampering as well as the therapeutic properties of touch.

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Aloysius CheongMANAGING DIRECTOR & CEO

OLIVE GREEN PTE LTD

Olive Green leads the environmentally-friendly way with its trademark Origo, an eco-friendly material made from corn. To raise awareness of climate change, Olive Green products are accessible and affordable, so that everyone can play a role in environmental conservation.

Dr Cheng Eng WahPRINCIPLE PARTNER AND FOUNDER

I.DENTAL SuRGEONS PTE LTD

A trusted and recognised name in dentistry, i.dental differentiates itself as an established dental practice by offering integrated dental care using the latest in dental technologies.

Brandon NgMANAGING DIRECTOR

MICRO 2000 TECHNOLOGY PTE LTD

Micro 2000 is a premier IT business solutions company with a track record in systems integration, turnkey solutions and outsourced solutions in Asia. Today, it has expanded its business to include IT consultancy and integration services, support and maintenance services, and distribution and retail.

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Jane Ang DIRECTOR

SCARLET ACE PTE LTD

Scarlet Ace is an ideal place to find light and bathroom fittings for homes or business environments. The company provides customers with a wide variety of stylish and practical light and bathroom fittings for amazing value.

Lt Col Chan Chik WengMANAGING DIRECTOR

SITA PEST CONTROL & FuMIGATION SERVICES PTE LTD

Sita is one of Singapore’s leading pest management companies. It is a reliable provider of prompt, efficient and professional quality service by its trained, professional team.

Jason SimMANAGING DIRECTOR

PLAYPOINT (SINGAPORE) PTE LTD

PLAYPOINT is a premier turnkey specialist in playgrounds and outdoor space solutions in Southeast Asia. It stands out for its strong in-house design capabilities, exclusive distributorship of leading playground and outdoor equipment products, and seamless project execution.

Sally ChuaMANAGING DIRECTOR

Q’SON KITCHEN EQuIPMENT

Q’son Kitchen Equipment manufactures, services and repairs all sorts of kitchen equipment, living by its mantra: to supply quality products and provide efficient after-sales service.

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Christopher TanDIRECTOR

SMARTEC PTE LTD

Smartec specialises in full turnkey precision manufacturing solutions. It designs, manufactures and refurbishes components for the oil and gas, marine, energy, aerospace, and biomedical industries.

Jonathan PorMANAGING DIRECTOR

SuPREME LION HOLDING PTE LTD (SuPREME FLOORS)

Supreme Floors is Singapore’s No.1 wood flooring brand. One of the biggest names in laminate, engineered and solid wood flooring across the Asia Pacific, Supreme Floors serves a global clientele.

Alvin TanMANAGING DIRECTOR

SuRECLEAN PTE LTD

SureClean Pte Ltd is a leading supplier for hygiene and disinfection technology for cleaning, sanitising, food safety, and infection control products and services in Singapore and Southeast Asia. SureClean also relies on education to provide customers with a clean and hygienic environment to enhance their health standards and productivity.

Evelyn KohBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

SKW MARINE EQuIPMENT PTE LTD

SKw Marine Equipment Pte Ltd is a fast-growing service and manufacturing company that offers operational and engineering solutions for the marine and offshore industry. SKw Marine Equipment is also steadfast in keeping up with ongoing developments to the latest technology.

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Think Kitchen. Q’son has you covered.

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Professional Consultancy & DesignExtensive Range of HardwareHighly Skilled FabricationOn-Time Delivery

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andrew Kwansoe-neXia ts entrepreneur of the Year 2014

Andrew Kwan is a serial entrepreneur and the founder of Commonwealth Capital Group. His portfolio spans Singapore’s largest Italian QSR chain, PastaMania; SwissBake cafes; and NYC Bagel Factory as well as food production entities SwissTreats and Zac Meats & Poultry. The group also owns an integrated food logistics and supply chain company, Commonwealth Food Services; Singapore’s largest aquaculture sea farm Barramundi Asia; media group NPE Print Communications; and brand consultancy Spinnaker360.

He was named Rotary-ASME Entrepreneur of the Year-2004, and his companies have won numerous accolades including the Business Times Enterprise50, Fastest Growing 50 and consecutive Franchisor of the Year titles in two different industries from the Franchising and Licensing Association (Singapore). A business he divested in 2010 won the Best Exit award conferred by the Singapore Venture Capital and Private Equity Association.

ANDREW KWANFounder, Commonwealth Capital Group

”

“Entrepreneurs by nature do not see problems per se, but solutions and opportunities in every problem presented.

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soe nominees 2014

Reza Behnam ADzCENTRAL PTE LTD Bernard Oh AMC ASIA Tham Kok Hong william ASIA SoCIAL VENTURES Chris lee ASYLUM CREATIVE PTE LTD

Sim Eng Tong BIoMAX TECHNoLoGIES PTE LTD

Thian Zhiwen BLooMERANG PTE LTD

Eileen Yap Hwee Koon BREATHIN’ BRAND

Martin Skyperman CAVI-JET (S) PTE LTD

Tan weiwei/Ho Ghim Chiok Bendy CHERE: wEDDINGS & PARTIES

Goh Teck Ting CHLoRoS SoLUTIoNS PTE LTD Mícheál Collins/ Nagitha Kumarasinghe CKA MEDIA AND TRAINING CENTRE PTE LTD

Ronald Pang CLARITI HEARING CARE

Karanveer Singh Bajaj CoMPUTER ANALYST AND RECoVERY EXPERTS PTE LTD

Kelvin lee Song lye DATAVoICE TECHNoLoGY PTE LTD

Daryl Neo DC FRoNTIERS PTE LTD

Chong Ming Tat DYLAN AND SoN PTE LTD

Grace lim Chew Hoon EAGLE SUCCESS PTE LTD

amanda Koo ECLARITY

Rio Soh EDSTRATEGY PTE LTD

Carina Tien lye Ching EMBRACE YoURSELF

ashraff Khan FAR EAST ASIA MARINE DYNAMICS PTE LTD

Colin Macdonald FINE GRAIN PRoPERTY

Dato’ Dr Charles Chen Tian Hong FooDNET CoNSULTANTS PTE LTD

Nicholas Chan FREDRIK MARINE IT SERVICES PTE LTD

Danny Teo GAIN CITY BEST-ELECTRIC PTE LTD Joshua lung Sing wei HEALING ToUCH Francis Ng HoUSE oF SEAFooD Dr Cheng Eng wah I.DENTAL SURGEoNS PTE LTD Clarice Chan ICoN + EDUCATIoN CENTRE (ICoN+ PTE LTD) Chan wai Sun ISUN EDUCATIoN PTE LTD

Suraj Suresh Melwani KNow.IT.NoTHING PTE LTD/SIFR DESIGN AND BUILD PTE LTD

Mok Sui Siong MASTER TACTIC PTE LTD

Ng Chee Huat, Brandon MICRo 2000 TECHNoLoGY PTE LTD

We are grateful to all our SOE Awards nominees for their time and generosity. Thank you for sharing your inspiring stories with us.

aloysius Cheong oLIVE GREEN PTE LTD Yeo Kok Chye Norman oNE SToP CoNCEPT PTE LTD

Sim Eng Hoe, Jason PLAYPoINT (SINGAPoRE) PTE LTD

Sally Chua Q’SoN KITCHEN EQUIPMENT

Richard Gavriel RICHARD GAVRIEL SPEAKER MANAGEMENT PTE LTD

Jane ang Sok Hoon SCARLET ACE PTE LTD

lt Col Chan Chik weng SITA PEST CoNTRoL & FUMIGATIoN SERVICES PTE LTD

Evelyn Koh SKw MARINE EQUIPMENT PTE LTD

Christopher Tan SMARTEC PT ELTD

Serene Tan SoRGEN PTE LTD

Por Hock Teng Jonathan SUPREME LIoN HoLDING PTE LTD (SUPREME FLooRS)

alvin Tan SURECLEAN PTE LTD

Shivanu Shakula TEAMIE PTE LTD

Yvonne anjelina Ra THE ETIQUETTE SCHooL

adeline Tan Hui lin THE HEALING CoNCIERGE

Nityanand Rai TwoFoLD PTE LTD (FoRMERLY TwoFoLD LLP)

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Best student interViewer award 2014

SOE-CHARLES & KEITH

Manorama Singh D/O R N Singh SINGAPORE MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY

Kelyn TanSIM--UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM,

KAPLAN HIGHER EDuCATIONlai Ka weng

NANYANG TECHNOLOGY uNIVERSITY Glenn OngChan wei Na JoelynChien Han ShengGoh Chye SengHuang Zhixinaravindkumaran s/o Sabapathyweng Jing YingTan Ming Gui Eunice

NANYANG uNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE ayush Kumar PacheriwalaTeo Yu SiangRebecca Chou

soe student interViewers 2014

SINGAPORE MANAGEMENT uNIVERSITY Travis Ng Jian weiManorama Singh D/O R N SinghEdric SuburYang Jiajun

SINGAPORE INSTITuTE OF MANAGEMENT uNIVERSITY lu Jia Juan MichelleKelyn Tan

TEMASEK POLYTECHNIC Shenesse Yeo Jing Yi


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different sChools of thoughtsoe-Charles & Keith Best student interViewer award 2014

their time, they also gave of their undivided attention.

And SIP participants had to be equally dedicated to the entirety of the interview process. They began with research, seeking out companies that resonated with qualities and values synonymous with SOE. Thereafter, they transcribed the hour-long conversations, and then began to wrote stories that would best speak to the journeys of the entrepreneurs. This documentation is also part of the beginning of Manorama and Kelyn’s own forays into entrepreneurship.

during Manorama’s tertiary education, first at Ngee Ann Polytechnic and now at Singapore Management University, she worked on projects with a business

development aspect and found her true passion. She took up the SPRING-Executive development Scholarship and discovered the SIP. The opportunity to work hand in hand with SMEs with the former, and learn from inspiring SME business leaders with the latter will be both indispensible to her in the formation of a strong business concept of her own.

Kelyn, a student at SIM- University of Birmingham, was searching for entrepreneur network opportunities, and people with whom she could share her business idea when she stumbled on the SOE webpage and SIP. She felt that the rare opportunity to interact with CEOs would be vital before she embarks on

Meeting the stars behind Singapore’s foremost businesses may seem like an intimidating prospect, but not only were the CEOs eager to share, they trusted the SIP participants with their ideas.

True entrepreneurs create success while staying true to their school of thought. Their lessons are diverse, running the gamut from self-reliance in acquiring resources to not becoming complacent, and respecting one’s own time and the time given to others. Manorama found the last lesson especially poignant as it echoed the smoothness of the interview process: when the CEOs gave the interviewers

BEST STUDENT INTERvIEwERS 2014

her own e-commerce venture. From the SIP interviews she conducted, Kelyn is now aware that tangible elements are still essential when it comes to engaging with people.

despite their different goals, Manorama and Kelyn agree that an interest in entrepreneurship can only be developed through hands-on experience that will refine one’s abilities. Furthermore, healthy competition is often a great motivating factor that can influence one to become a better person and entrepreneur -- one who constantly seeks to improve oneself while making a significant contribution to the rest of world.

MANORAMA SINGHSingapore Management University

KELYN TANSIM--University of Birmingham

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taKing the lion’s share

BOaRD MEMBER

SERENE PANCommercial Director, Envocycle Pte Ltd

To Serene Pan, entrepreneurship is believing and creating something from nothing. In the days before the SIP had developed to its present extent, Serene, an intrepid budding entrepreneur, was already invested in entrepreneurship by her own definition.

In 2009, Serene joined SOE as a student interviewer, with a dream of one day owning her own business. It started her on an entrepreneurial journey of her own, as she learned the virtues of being forward thinking, enthusiastic, humble and willing to share from those whom she spoke to.

From the start, it was a challenge. Serene pored over multiple directories including the Yellow Pages and the Green Book to find companies that satisfied her criteria. Her hard work paid off. That year she went one-on-one with

Anastasia Tjendri-Liew of Bengawan Solo, Roger Koh of Chen Fu Ji International, Alex Ong of delisnacks and Rodney Ang of defu Foods. despite it being not common practice, the SOE Secretariat invited her to return as a student interviewer the following year.

After a brief period of working once she had graduated, Serene started her own company, Envocycle, which deals in post-consumer and post-industrial plastic scrap – a niche area, which she sees as a strength. Its divergence from her degree in psychology has meant that she has had to cross many hurdles on her own, but her passion and an open mind have always helped her along.

when she was still a student member of SOE, Serene observed SOE Board Meetings. Today, she serves on the SOE Board of Governors. Serene may have come a long way since then, but she still makes it a point to read SIP interviews.

Everyone can learn from Singapore’s best business minds with the SIP, as learning is limitless and has the potential to be life changing, just as it was for Serene. “Even if you have no precise interest in starting a business,” she says, “it is still a great way to develop your emotions, insights and communication skills.”

from interViewer to entrepreneur

” “Everyone can learn from Singapore’s best business minds with the SIP.

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Lessons that Inspire From how to start a business to the value of perseverance, students are introduced to entrepreneurship basics through seven learning sessions.

Two-way Conversations during the ‘Meet the Entrepreneurs’ session, mentors share inspiring success stories and engage students with social interaction, team building and games.

Entrepreneurship in Action Students apply their new knowledge to real-life business activities like school-organised fundraising events that include markets and fairs.

The SOE Student Entrepreneur Programme (SEP) imparts life lessons and entrepreneurship skills to young students and at-risk youth through partnerships with primary and secondary schools, youth centres, community service groups, and charities. For entrepreneurs, it’s a way of giving back. For the young, it’s an inspiration to rise to greater heights. In 2013, the programme successfully reached over 200 students. with strong support and word-of-mouth recommendations, numbers are set to grow by 20--30% this year.

“”

For entrepreneurs, it’s a way of giving back. For the young, it’s an inspiration to rise to greater heights.

nurturing tomorrow’s innoVatorssoe student entrepreneur programme

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SPIRIT oF ENTERPRISE 2014 PARTNERS

MaIN PaRTNER

Nexia TS Pte Ltd

Nexia TS is an established mid-tier local accounting firm that has grown significantly since its founding in 1993. An

independent member firm of Nexia International, Nexia TS is affiliated with accounting firms in many parts of the

world, allowing clients to enjoy personalised, comprehensive services at competitive rates in Singapore and globally.

STRETEGIC PaRTNER

Credit Suisse AG

Credit Suisse AG is one of the world’s leading financial services providers. It is a part of the Credit Suisse group of companies

(referred to here as ‘Credit Suisse’). As an integrated bank, Credit Suisse is able to offer clients its expertise in the

areas of private banking, investment banking and asset management from a single source. Credit Suisse has one of

the largest wealth management businesses globally, with an international network of 300 offices in 41 countries. For entrepreneurs, it offers solutions for a range of private and

corporate wealth management needs, including holistic and tailor-made business and private financial solutions, succession

planning, financial planning and investment banking services.

EDUCaTION PaRTNER

CHARLES & KEITH (Singapore) Pte Ltd

The CHARLES & KEITH Group portfolio encompasses three contemporary brands CHARLES & KEITH, CHARLES & KEITH

SIGNATURE LABEL, and Pedro. Innovation, creativity, and adaptability to growing market demands have captured a

wide international market share through strategically located stores in some of the world’s biggest fashion cities.

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PERNOD RICARD SINGAPORE -- CHIVAS

Chivas 18 is a uniquely rich and multi-layered blend that includes over twenty of Scotland’s rarest single malt Scotch whiskies. with

85 flavour notes in every drop, each sip is a new discovery.

VISA

Visa is a global payments technology company that connects consumers, businesses, financial institutions and governments

in more than 200 countries and territories to fast, secure and reliable electronic payments. we operate one of the world’s

most advanced processing networks, VisaNet, that is capable of handling more than 47,000 transaction messages a second, with fraud protection for consumers and assured payment for

merchants. Visa is not a bank and does not issue cards, extend credit or set rates and fees for consumers. Visa’s innovations,

however, enable its financial institution customers to offer consumers more choices: pay now with debit, ahead of time

with prepaid or later with credit products. For more information, visit usa.visa.com/about-visa, visacorporate.tumblr.com

and @ VisaNews.

EvENT PaRTNERS

Michael SengolSCHOlaRSHIP/BURSaRY PaRTNER

Michael SengolMichael Sengol is an award-winning hospitality veteran of over 40 years. He has worked with renowned hotel groups

across Europe, Australia, Guam, and the Asia Pacific. For his outstanding contribution to industry, he has received the

Singapore Human Resources Institute’s Leading CEO Award at the Singapore HR Awards 2011; the Lifetime Achievement

Award--Hospitality Personality of The Year at the Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards (HAPA) Regional Series 2011--2013; and

the Fonterra Lifetime Achievement Award at the world Gourmet Summit 2011. Sengol works with charities from China, India, Malaysia, the Philippines and Singapore, and donates 90% of his earnings from consultancy projects to charitable causes.

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OFFICIal PaRTNERS

SPIRIT oF ENTERPRISE 2014 oFFICIAL PARTNERS

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OFFICIal PRINTER OFFICIal PaPER OFFICIal MaGaZINE

OFFICIal vIDEO aND PHOTOGRaPHY

CREaTIvE aGENCY aND EvENT MaNaGEMENT

SUPPORTING ORGaNISaTIONS

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SECRETaRIaT aND lEGal aDvISORS

SOE DONORS aND SPONSORS

SPIRIT oF ENTERPRISE 2014 DoNoRS & SPoNSoRS

OBSESSED WITH QUALITY,Just like you

We share common values, such as professionalism, business ethics and trust. We give individual attention to every minute service detail, ensuring a high-quality experience.

We help many talented entrepreneurs from across the globe with our strategic advice and highly professional services.

Come share your vision with us. We would be delighted to help you make it a reality.

OUR SERVICES

Assurance & Business Services

IPO

Tax

Advisory & Transaction Services

Insolvency & Corporate Recovery

Governance, Risk Management &Internal Audit

Forensic Technology Services

Accounting & Corporate Services

China Advisory

SINGAPORE100 Beach RoadShaw Tower #30-00Singapore 189702T (65) 6534 [email protected]

CHINAUnit 2104 Hong Kong Plaza283 Huai Hai Zhong Road,Shanghai 200021, ChinaT (8621) 6390 [email protected]

SME TM

ONE ASIA AWARDS2 0 1 3 S I N G A P O R E

MALAYSIAUnit No 23A-06, Level 23AMenara Landmark, No. 12Jalan Ngee Heng80000 Johor Bahru, JohorT (60) 7 221 3285

MYANMARFMI Centre, 702, 07th Floor380 Bogyoke Aung San RoadYangon MyanmarT: (95) 1 240400, (95) 1240363 (ext-1702, 1712)

www.nexiats.com.sg

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The SoE Awards, Fundraising Golf Challenge, and SoE Book offer you the opportunity to bring your brand, products, and services to a wider audience.

Be a part of all this in 2015, talk to us at [email protected]

www.soe.org.sg

Spirit of Enterprise

Documents

Transcript of Spirit of Enterprise