Where it began
I majored in English Language and Literature at the National University of Singapore and initially wanted to be a writer — while many of my classmates were aspiring teachers or public servants. I wrote film and theatre reviews for a well-regarded arts review website and began my career producing web content for internet companies.
That early path came to an abrupt end when the ‘dotcom’ bubble burst (Bubble #1).
Searching for direction
Drawn to the arts, I joined a dance company as a general manager. While the work was meaningful, I quickly realised how much of the role depended on securing funding that was never guaranteed.
I decided to refocus on what I could do with my degree. I completed a CELTA qualification and spent two years teaching English in China. Returning to Singapore in my late twenties, I felt it was time to take my career more seriously.
Building a foundation in facilitation and education
My first “serious” role was at the Singapore Mediation Centre as a conflict management trainer, where I developed my workshop facilitation skills and learned from leading experts in mediation and negotiation.
I then joined Temasek Polytechnic as a business communications lecturer, teaching cross-cultural communication, job search skills, presentation skills, and professional writing. I also supported students on internship programmes, delivered professional development for colleagues, and facilitated large-scale events.
During this time, I completed a Master of Arts in TESOL, where I became interested in language learning identities and culturally relevant pedagogy.
Research, transition, and a new context
I later moved to New Zealand and completed a PhD in Education, focusing on how international students engaged in learning through peer networks and informal “knowledge brokering”.
I had intended to build an academic career — but that path proved uncertain (Bubble #2).
Through this experience, I began to understand more deeply how careers are shaped not just by qualifications, but by networks, systems, and access to opportunities.
Entering the New Zealand job market
After my PhD, I joined the Work Connect programme for new migrants. It was here that I gained insight into the hidden job market and what employers were really looking for.
What stood out most was how much of job searching involved translating knowledge across contexts — making sense of one system and adapting it to another.
This idea of “brokering” knowledge across cultures continues to inform my work today.
Finding my way into career development
Soon after completing the programme, I was invited to take on a fixed-term role as a career development consultant. It brought together everything I had done before — facilitation, research, and lived experience of navigating a new system.
I later moved into advisory roles within the New Zealand public sector, working on education and workforce development over several years.
During this time, I:
- developed my analytical and advisory skills
- contributed to employee-led networks supporting Asian public servants
- completed training in leadership, agile methodology, and futures thinking
- became a board trustee of English Language Partners
I felt I had finally built a stable and meaningful career (read more about it in this blog post).
Redundancy and re-evaluation
In early 2024, a change in government led to widespread redundancies, including my role (Bubble #3).
This was a significant turning point — professionally and personally.
I revisited career development theories, reflected on my strengths using the VIA Character Strengths framework, and began exploring new directions. I reached out beyond my immediate networks, experimented with delivering workshops, and tested ideas for coaching and training.
Through this process of reflection, experimentation, and connection, I secured my current role as a Career Consultant at Victoria University of Wellington.
What I’ve learned
My career has been shaped by multiple transitions — across countries, sectors, and roles — and by moments of uncertainty, disruption, and change.
Through these experiences, I’ve come to believe:
- careers are rarely linear, especially across cultures
- networks and relationships matter as much as technical skills
- clarity and direction are developed through reflection and action, not just planning
- resilience comes from understanding and applying your strengths
Resilience through character strengths
In building my own career resilience, I draw on my signature VIA Character Strengths:
- Spirituality: finding purpose and meaning in experiences
- Creativity: translating ideas into practical insights
- Zest: bringing energy and enthusiasm to my work
- Love of learning: continuously developing knowledge and skills
- Judgment: thinking critically and staying open to different perspectives
How this shapes my work today
My coaching is grounded in the same principles, tools, and approaches that I have used and tested in my own career — alongside research and professional practice in career development.
At the heart of my work is helping international professionals navigate complexity, build confidence, and move forward with clarity.
Closing reflection
Career paths don’t always follow a straight line — especially across cultures. With the right clarity and strategy, they can still be intentional, coherent, and meaningful.
My own journey has been shaped by transitions, uncertainty, and learning across different contexts. This is what informs the work I do today: supporting international professionals to navigate change, build confidence, and move forward with clarity.
And ultimately, to approach their careers in a way where culture becomes a source of power, not a barrier.
If my journey resonates with you and you’re navigating your own career or cross-cultural transition, you’re welcome to get in touch.
- Book a free no-obligation 20‑minute conversation
- Submit an enquiry form to share more about your situation
Stay connected
I share reflections and practical insights on international careers, identity, and transitions through my writing and content.
I host a podcast and appear on guest podcasts, sharing insights on international careers and cross-cultural transitions. Explore latest podcasts →
You’re also welcome to connect with me on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, or subscribe to my newsletter International Career Journey on LinkedIn and Substack.