I got told I can’t do anything just because I wasn’t good at mathematics. But you know what, life is more than calculus and algebra.
What's your overall background?
Being brought up by Asian parents, I thought I was going to be a lawyer (or something similar) when I grew up. Fortunately, I made them happy by pursuing the same degree that my mum studied - English Language and Literature. I tried my best to appreciate Shakespeare’s work, but I failed. I believe he would be chuffed to know that.
My capriciousness then took me to the UK which I call my second home. In 2017 I completed my M.A. in Translation and Interpreting at the University of Nottingham. Then my nerdy brain challenged me once more and I decided to study for a Diploma in Professional Digital Marketing from The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) which was completed in 2021.
I worked as a consultant in the higher education sector for four years and a half before joining Skåne Startups. It was a ‘jack of all trades’ position and I was part of projects in sales, marketing, account management, customer success and operations. The world of business is like a kaleidoscope and I was fascinated massively by it. Prior to my professional experience in the UK, I worked many short-term jobs such as: EFL&CFL teacher, translator, interpreter, cleaner, event assistant, call centre agent, and even model.
What was your role at Skåne Startups?
Skåne Startups offered me a platform where I could make the most of my knowledge in digital marketing as a Communications and Marketing Coordinator. From managing social media channels to organising both online and in-person events, from creating digital content to working with local startup ecosystem players, not a single day at Skåne Startups was the same.
I was the Project Lead for the Student Startup Matching, which was later on taken by my ex-colleague João Nunes. Skåne Startups gives people the space to grow and thrive. I enjoyed creating digital content including pictures, videos, blogs, tweets and blogs. Working with Zhenni Liang has also given me the opportunity to meet stakeholders, such as Minc, The Ground, Venture Cup Sverige, Ideon Science Park etc. Most importantly, we have fun every day, even if it’s not written in the job description.
What did you enjoy the most at Skåne Startups?
I enjoyed all the challenges at work. How to make sure event attendees have a great experience? What content could catch readers’ attention? When is the best time to publish the social media post? How to handle event emergencies? Those questions puzzled me, but they also nurtured me to become a better business professional.
Of course, it was the people from Skåne Startups that I enjoyed the most. I never felt Zhenni Liang was my manager, but a mentor, a friend and a listener. The unique working culture at The Ground is something that I have never experienced before and I am grateful to still be in touch with my ex-colleagues.
Can you tell us about your current work?
In March 2022, I joined Web Manuals, a Swedish tech company offering solutions for the aviation industry, as a Business Development Representative. Four months later, I was promoted to Sales Executive which is my current role. I am glad that I could stay in the tech ecosystem after I ‘graduated’ from Skåne Startups. My fascination with the aviation industry has grown day by day since I joined the company and I am grateful to be part of the force helping aviation more digitized and sustainable.
What is your advice for other talents?
Listen, learn and take action.
Something you are unreasonably passionate about?
I want to say food, but it seems like a bland answer. I recently started to listening podcasts and I highly recommend them. Currently on my playlist:
- WorkLife with Adam Grant, by TED
- The Food Programme, by BBC Radio 4
- Comfort Eating with Grace Dent, by The Guardian
- Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques, by Stanford GSB
The story above is updated on November 2022. You can learn more and reach out via LinkedIn.