Entrepreneurs are individuals who inspire us by embodying the spirit of innovation, resilience, and determination. They dare to dream big and turn those dreams into reality, creating businesses that often push the boundaries of what's possible. Our Girl Power this month is one who couldn't sit still in a 9 to 5 job and is persistently turning her ideals into true substance. Yuh Chiaen, take it away!
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Please introduce yourself and tell us how you got started as a business owner?
I started my first business at the age of 19 when I had to make money for my living and study in KL. It was a "rebellious little girl in a big city" thing, you know... I found it difficult to settle with studying in my hometown, LOL. I even went for an interview to be a part-time waiter and sales assistant in a mall. Still, I couldn't settle for a stagnant lifestyle, so this street-smart girl unleashed her business ideas, and surprisingly it went all smoothly and better than expected. That's when I realised, "Wooo! I'm pretty good at this business thing", and this thought brought me back to owning a business after years of working in the corporate world. Heh!
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How do you stay motivated and come up with fresh ideas for your business?
Ahhhh, fresh ideas! For me, it's all about keeping things fun and staying curious about the world. I love exploring and staying up-to-date with what's happening. We all spend so much time scrolling on our phones, right? Well, I like to put those things I see to good use! And what keeps me going and feeling motivated is my amazing partner, my team, and witnessing the growth and progress we achieve together. Seeing how everyone grows and glows under my influence is incredibly motivating!
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What do you believe are the biggest challenges a business owner is facing today, and how would you overcome them?
When it comes to having fun ideas, I never run out of them! But the real challenge comes in executing those crazy ideas and making them work for the business. Many people give up halfway because reality doesn't match up to their imagination (been there, done that). For me, I've become less wild and more practical with the current conditions, having best and worst scenarios in my head, and this allows me to fall and have the strength to bounce back for the next fight. Failure and change are like three meals a day in the business world. So, train your mentality, and don't be afraid of falling down!
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Can you share with us some of your favourite collaborations or partnerships you've done as a business owner?
I personally love the project with lilin+co and dododots! The side merchandises we have in store are all created for good causes, and to be honest, they are not the most financially practical from a business perspective. But we just love creating things that touch the human heart and manifest the idea of "embrace me, be a better me" <3
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How do you engage with your customers and build a loyal community around your brand?
The core value of our business is to "be human" and authentic in every detail. No matter what position we hold, we strive to be kind, humble and create things & conversations that connect with every people we come across.
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Was there a point where you almost gave up but didn't? If yes, what kept you going?
Not almost; I gave up the whole thing. After that early win, I got a bit too relaxed and thought I could ace anything. But hello, was I wrong! My part-time business venture turned out to be a major flop, and I ended up working in a bank for years, thinking that was the life I wanted. It wasn't until my work partner called me out and reminded me of the talent I trashed after the failure. That affirmation and support got me back, and I haven't looked back since.
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What are your future goals and aspirations?
My lifetime goal is all about growth, exploration, and creating meaningful things and memories that make my small little world a better place.
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What would you have done differently if you could go back and do it again?
Nothing. I regret nothing! Every experience makes me what I am today, and I'm awesomeeeee hahahahha!
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What is one thing people don’t know about you?
I'm an open book. People around me know pretty much everything. But many say they didn't realise I'm cheeky and funny until they talked to me. I guess I have a bit of RBF (resting bitch face) issue. LOL!
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If your life was a movie, which character would play you and why?
Cameron Diaz in Charlie's Angels; a playful, energic and free-spirited supportive friend who is always looking hot!!
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What is the best quote that you live by?
This is on my wallpaper now, so this is it—"We cannot become what we are by remaining what we are."
Yuh Chiaen latest brainchild is EyeMuse, a certified and award-winning colour lens brand with popping and eye-catching colours! On 13 Aug 2023, she had a closed-door launch for the first physical store of EyeMuse at E6, The Stories of Taman Tunku, Bukit Tunku. Shh! This is exclusive information, so keep your eyes peeled on EyeMuse's Instagram for the official launch and check out EyeMuse's website in the meantime.
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