In my previous life as an academic…
I explored how people navigate career, learning, and identity across cultures, particularly in the context of international education and migration.
My research focused on how language, culture, and knowledge are exchanged across different systems — and how internationally mobile individuals make sense of new environments, build networks, and adapt across contexts.
I was also interested in connecting research with professional practice and policy, and in building collaborative networks between academics, educators, and practitioners.
You can find more of my research on ResearchGate.
Research focus and perspective
My research and personal interests converged in a shared goal: supporting individuals to navigate cross-cultural transitions and unfamiliar systems.
I focused on multicultural and transnational communities, using sociocultural and multimodal approaches to understand how people:
- learn and work in new environments
- build meaningful and strategic networks
- develop confidence and identity across cultures
I was also guided by the Māori concept of manaakitanga — a commitment to building relationships grounded in trust, care, and mutual respect — which continues to shape how I work today.
Academic qualifications
Originally from Singapore, I completed my doctoral studies at the University of Waikato in New Zealand.
- PhD in Education, University of Waikato
My research examined how international students engaged in informal learning through peer networks, leading to a theory of knowledge brokering — how people exchange and translate knowledge across cultures. - Master of Arts in TESOL, University of Southern California
My research explored the identity of a minority English language learner through a narrative case study. - Bachelor of Arts (English Language and Literature), National University of Singapore
Teaching and early professional experience
Alongside my academic work, I built a strong foundation in teaching, facilitation, and communication.
- Business communications lecturer at Temasek Polytechnic (Singapore), teaching cross-cultural communication, job search skills, and professional development
- English language teacher in China (CELTA qualified)
- Conflict management trainer at the Singapore Mediation Centre
Earlier in my career, I also worked in corporate communications across the IT and creative sectors.
Research, publications, and academic service
I have published research in international education and migration, and received the ISANA International Education Association Award for my paper:
- “Seeking Academic Help: A Case Study of Peer Brokering Interactions” (2018, Transitions: Journal of Transient Migration)
I have also:
- convened symposia on international education
- led a national symposium on the international student experience in New Zealand
- served on the editorial board of the Journal of International Students
- reviewed conference abstracts for NZARE (New Zealand Association for Research in Education)
Publications and presentations
You can explore selected publications and presentations below:
For a broader overview of my research outputs, visit my profile on ResearchGate.
Leadership and advocacy
I have been actively involved in advocacy for international students, particularly at postgraduate level.
- Past President, Postgraduate Students’ Association, University of Waikato
- Regional Representative, International Students and Study Abroad SIG (CIES)
- Secretary, ISANA New Zealand (2017–2020)
This work deepened my understanding of policy, representation, and the lived experiences of internationally mobile learners.
Continuing interests
I continue to engage with research and practice in international education, particularly in areas such as:
- employability of international students
- cross-cultural career development
- culturally responsive pedagogy
- collaboration between researchers, educators, and practitioners
How this connects to my work today
This academic work continues to shape how I approach career coaching, cross-cultural transitions, and professional identity.
My research on knowledge brokering, networks, and identity directly informs how I support international professionals to navigate careers across systems and cultures — and to build meaningful, strategic pathways forward.