Amreena Jan & her Passionate blog that she runs!
What’s your story?
Well, I’m a full-time superhero mom, donning my cape by day and my writer’s hat by night. By day, I’m a dedicated Growth Manager, steering the ship of a private organization toward prosperity. I specialize in crafting strategies that foster growth, efficiency, and innovation. But that’s not all! Beyond the boardroom, I don a different hat, that of a skilled blogger. My writing style is characterized by its humor, wit, and an inherent sense of fun. My blog is a testament to this, offering readers an enjoyable escape from the mundane. Furthermore, I’m a Content Strategist, adept at shaping brand identities and crafting compelling narratives. This role involves a delicate dance between strategy and creativity, resulting in a symphony of brand success stories. And then there’s the most epic role of all: Mom. Balancing the chaos of work and life is a rollercoaster I wouldn’t trade for the world. It’s a wild adventure, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
How & Why did you start your company/passion work?
I am a food engineering graduate with a master’s degree specializing in food nanotechnology. My passion for writing ignited at an early age, when my first poem was published in “THE HINDU” during my grade 2. From there till now, I have been a co-author of a couple of scientific books. This fervor for writing took a new direction as I ventured into the world of blogging, where I poured my 3 a.m. thoughts onto the digital canvas. Gradually, I transformed my passion into a profession because I firmly believe in the adage,
“Love what you do, and do what you love to survive.“
My journey commenced as a content developer and evolved into a content strategist. I also had the privilege of working as a corporate communication specialist in the dynamic landscape of the United Arab Emirates. In addition I wear several hats, including those of a voice-over artist, scriptwriter and a budding artist. Today, I am spreading my wings even further, aiming higher, and assisting brands in their growth journey as a Growth Manager. Throughout this diverse journey, one constant remains – my unwavering love for writing and the art of crafting compelling stories.
How do you bring BALANCE to your roles as MOTHER: FOUNDER: SELF?
Balancing the intricate dance of work and life is like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle on a tightrope. My journey has been an exhilarating adventure, with work as my canvas and family as my guiding star. As a driven professional, I tackle each workday with ambition and innovation, channeling my multifaceted talents into everything I do. But when the clock strikes ‘family time,’ I switch gears with enthusiasm, cherishing the moments with my loved ones. In this ever-evolving journey, I find solace in being resourceful and resilient, constantly seeking creative solutions to navigate life’s twists and turns. It’s a balancing act, no doubt, but it’s one that fuels my passion and allows me to craft stories that inspire and resonate. So, how do I bring balance to my life? By embracing the chaos, cherishing the quiet moments, and finding joy in every step of the adventure. It’s a journey I wouldn’t trade for the world.
Any recent accomplishment you would like to share with us? (personal/professional)
At work- I’m all about teamwork at work, often dubbed ‘Captain Cool’ by colleagues. Approachable and lively, I believe in creating a positive work environment. At home- But when it’s family time, it’s a whole different game – no work distractions allowed. I’m fully present for my loved ones while pursuing my passion. I deliberately took a career break to savor those precious moments with my little ones. I didn’t want them cared for by anyone else; I wanted to be there for their first steps, first words, and all the little joys in between. I deeply admire moms who balance it all, but I was fortunate enough to take a break. I lived those moments and when I was ready, I came back – better and stronger! So mommys don’t fear the career break. Trust the process and get back when you are really ready for it!
What would you like to say to fellow mothers or women thinking of starting a business?
To my fellow mommys out there, It may seem daunting to juggle parenthood with entrepreneurship, but remember, you’ve already mastered the art of multitasking like a pro. So, why not channel that superpower into creating something remarkable? Starting a business or chasing your dreams is like embarking on an exciting adventure. Sure, there will be challenges along the way, but every twist and turn is an opportunity for growth. And let’s not forget the immense satisfaction that comes from building something of your own. So, put on your ‘Mompreneur’ cape and take that leap of faith. The world needs more of your unique talents and perspectives. Your journey might not always be smooth, but it will undoubtedly be worth it.
What are three words you would use to describe your experience of being a Mother/Founder ?
Three words to describe my experience as a mother-founder would be: Inspiring, challenging, and rewarding.
Find & Know More about Amreena and her brand!
Connect with her.
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Website: https://amreenajan.blogspot.com/
Facebook: n/a
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thequirky_dna?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amreena-jan-a06aa4b9/
Click here If you are interested in knowing more about The Mother/Founder Movement & Community. To join us, click here for Association Membership.
The face behind Conscious Paper – Polly Setunga!
What’s your story?
Palak Shah Setunga, also known as Polly, is the founder of Conscious Paper and a passionate traveler who thrives on exploring new cultures, cuisines, and connecting with people. Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Polly spent 12 years as an investment banker with JPMorgan Chase Bank in India and Hong Kong. Her banking career equipped Polly with a strong foundation in financial analysis and strategic decision-making. However, her innate curiosity and love for travel led her to pursue a new path in life. Combining her passion for adventure with her desire to make a positive impact, Polly established Conscious Paper, an award winning sustainable stationery business. Through her creative designs, she promotes eco-conscious practices and contributes to the global shift towards sustainability. Polly invites individuals to embrace unconventional solutions for a greener future. Through Conscious Paper, she encourages people to appreciate the harmony between nature, creativity, and the transformative power of waste—a testament to the potential of unexpected materials in building a sustainable world from trash to treasure that is responsibly sourced and sustainably made.
How & Why did you start your company/passion work?
I grew up in the busy bustling city of Bombay in India but I remember every summer holidays when we would go to visit both set of my grandparents in a small town in Gujarat, India. My paternal grandmother loved her small garden and she would always grow her own food like tomatoes, green chilies, mint, basil, and so much more. I would love to go to her garden and help her out. Find new flowers, new bugs, new plants. This experience is embedded in my memory so much that I can still smell the garden. My grandmother passed in 2016 and up until her last day I shared so many new and interesting natural materials that are now being used to make paper and other products. This helped me realise how passionate I feel about the nature, trees, and the love my grandma had for her garden. Working in this industry and educating younger kids about this industry is very important for me and comes very naturally to me. You may one day look back and see something in your journey that makes you proud to be stood where you are, you may already be in that place!
How do you bring BALANCE to your roles as MOTHER: FOUNDER: SELF?
A good 7-8 hours sleep is very important for self, kids and business. Im early to bed and early to rise kind of person. Get things ready for the kids to go to school and then start my day with a good dose of exercise. I play Badminton every weekday for 2 hours. Things to do list, goal setting, calendar blocking, reminders is key to make sure you have all the business related tasks and key dates covered. Same goes with the children’s dates in schools and other important information, events and cut off dates.
Any recent accomplishment you would like to share with us? (personal/professional)
My most recent achievement has been winning the bronze REBORN! Upcycling Design Award in September 2023 and being featured in the TMS magazine interview. https://themilsource.com/2023/08/19/polly-setunga-conscious-paper-in-hong-kong/
What would you like to say to fellow mothers or women thinking of starting a business?
Entrepreneurship is hard! Just to even get going and understand the flow, getting the direction right, it’s just so difficult. I am doing this all by myself at this moment, but I realized that investing in people, investing in a team, is extremely important to go through the various levels of entrepreneurship. Events like COVID and events like changing the mindset of the people in Hong Kong are very difficult, and they do take a toll on you. I find that being consistent is the key and pushing your mission and pushing your business. As long as it’s correct and as long as it’s true to yourself. That is what will push you through entrepreneurship and through the ups and downs.
What are three words you would use to describe your experience of being a Mother/Founder ?
Consistency, Patience ,Will power.
Find & Know More about Polly and her brand!
Connect with her.
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Website: https://consciouspaper.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/consciouspaper?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Instagram: https://instagram.com/conscious_paper?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/consciouspaper
Click here If you are interested in knowing more about The Mother/Founder Movement & Community. To join us, click here for Association Membership.
The face behind The Eco-Statement- Sangeetha Nair
What’s your story?
I have a deep interest in the field of sustainable urban living. I am the founder of The Eco-Statement (www.theecostatement.com) and the creator of Singapore’s 1st Eco Board Game and Card Game). I created the games to bring fun and engagement for children as they learn about sustainability and sustainable living (these are big words and concepts for our little ones to understand!). I hope that learning through play nurtures in children the love for our world; trusting that they will look after what they love.
How & Why did you start your company/passion work?
As an Educator, I have been talking and teaching about Sustainability issues, Sustainable Development. Through the journey the question that keeps coming to me is: How can we equip our future generation to face Sustainability related risks & challenges? How can we cultivate the values & mindset of Sustainable Living? Establishing aspects of Sustainable Living as part of everyone’s day-to-day existence through fun and activities eventually became a solution that should empower everyone to create their own ‘Eco-Statement’. I hope that learning through play nurtures in children the love for our world; trusting that they will look after what they love.
How do you bring BALANCE to your roles as MOTHER: FOUNDER: SELF?
Juggle like a pro! Prioritize, delegate, flex, and remember to sneak in some “me time” for sanity’s sake. 
Any recent accomplishment you would like to share with us? (personal/professional)
Launching FunLearn Fiesta: hosting first event with zero experience of running events.
What would you like to say to fellow mothers or women thinking of starting a business?
It’s important to know your strength and think for long term.
What are three words you would use to describe your experience of being a Mother/Founder ?
Challenging, Rewarding, Fulfilling
Find & Know More about Severine and her brand! Sangeetha is a member of the The Mother/Founder Movement & Community
Connect with her.
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Website: www.theecostatement.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/theecostatement
Instagram: http://instagram.com/theecostatement
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/sangeetanair05
Click here If you are interested in knowing more about The Mother/Founder Movement & Community. To join us, click here for Association Membership.
The face behind Linguabox – Mandy Chen!
What’s your story?
Linguabox Group is an online Mandarin and Cantonese language learning platform, using a proven teacher methodology developed from the combined 30 years of teaching experience of my co-founder May, and myself. We are passionate about helping students master languages in an effective and enjoyable way!
At Linguabox, our experienced native-speaking teachers are dedicated to helping each student meet their unique needs and learning styles, and our online classes make it convenient for students to learn from anywhere with an internet connection.
We understand that learning a complex language like Mandarin can be challenging, but our fun and engaging classes make the learning experience more enjoyable and efficient. We are proud to offer school homework and curriculum support, ensuring our students stay on top of their studies and succeed in their Mandarin classes.
Our 5-star ratings from students and parents speak to the quality of our service and the success of our students. We believe that everyone has the ability to learn Mandarin, and we are committed to providing the tools and support necessary for our students to reach their full potential.
How & Why did you start your company/passion work?
As experienced educators with a deep-rooted passion for teaching, May, my co-founder, and I firmly believe in imparting our love for learning to a wider student base. Our extensive teaching experience spanning over three decades has enabled us to refine our teaching methodology, which now forms the backbone of Linguabox. Our zeal for teaching has been the driving force behind the inception of Linguabox, as we endeavor to reach out to more students and support them on their Mandarin journey.
How do you bring BALANCE to your roles as MOTHER: FOUNDER: SELF?
During the initial stages of our entrepreneurial journey, we were faced with multiple challenges that demanded a considerable amount of resilience and commitment to surmount. As co-founders and working parents, balancing the responsibilities of family, a full-time job, and managing a business proved to be particularly demanding. However, with the invaluable support and empathy of our loved ones, we were able to navigate some of these complexities and are making progress with achieving a suitable work-life balance.
Any recent accomplishment you would like to share with us? (personal/professional)
Partnering with May (my co-founder) to successfully launch our company based on a teaching methodology that we have developed. We have maintained our vision of teaching throughout the years, and the recognition from our students as well as their outstanding improvements in Mandarin is something I’m very proud of.
What would you like to say to fellow mothers or women thinking of starting a business?
As a businesswoman and a mother, I can personally attest to the fact that motherhood cultivates invaluable qualities that can be harnessed effectively when starting a business. These include strong multitasking abilities, unending patience, unmatched adaptability, resilience, and an extraordinary ability to nurture and grow. Our passions fuel us on this entrepreneurial journey. However, balancing the responsibilities of motherhood and business requires resilience and exceptional organizational skills. It’s crucial to remember that seeking help when needed is not a sign of weakness but a strength. Our authenticity, coupled with the skills we’ve developed through motherhood, can become an integral part of our businesses. When we allow these qualities to shine through our brands, we can distinguish ourselves and create a unique edge in the entrepreneurial world.
What are three words you would use to describe your experience of being a Mother/Founder ?
Passion, Dedication, Perseverance
Find & Know More about Mandy and her brand! Mandy is a member of the The Mother/Founder Movement & Community
Connect with her.
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- Website: https://www.linguaboxgroup.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LinguaboxGroup/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linguaboxgroup/
- Linkedin: n/a
Click here If you are interested in knowing more about The Mother/Founder Movement & Community. To join us, click here for Association Membership.
Who is Purvi Shah from Thinkers to Writers?
As Purvi says:
My name is Purvi Shah and am a proud mother of 2 very exuberant boys with diverse personalities. Coming to Hong Kong in my 30’s after a typical arranged marriage set up, I devoted myself to being a homemaker and motherhood was not far away. This was a perfect opportunity to feed my passion for reading and literature. A voracious and an avid fan of the written word, all the spare time that I could squeeze in whilst raising my boys was happily spent doing the aforementioned.
After almost a decade and few years, and the little ones engrossed in their own worlds, Thinkers To Writers became a natural progression in developing my passion into profession. The initial doubt and fear combined with a guilt of cutting the umbilical cord too soon, I worked from home with fewer hours, to maintain my hands on mom status. Always a firm believer that each experience is a learning opportunity, this eventually helped me pave my way in moving out to my own learning centre in a professional manner. This was one of the brightest days of my life , having an independent space to teach young adults and making a difference in their future , brought about immense satisfaction and joy.
To all the moms out there , who may be struggling with the dilemma of whether they can successfully justify wearing both hats , I strongly recommend that go for your dream. Age is just a number , there is no time limit to success. The added input and support that I receive from my husband and sons is absolutely a bonus.
To sum up my experiences and journey so far I could say – hard work , innovation and willingness to evolve.
Thinkers To Writers caters to teaching enhanced creative writing and holds grammar workshops for students aged 8 – 80!!
Do Kindly highlight, I have independently moved to a learning centre.
Find & Know More about Purvi and her brand
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- Website: n/a
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thinkerstowriters
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thinkers_to_writers/#
- Linkedin: n/a
Click here If you are interested in knowing more about The Mother/Founder Movement & Community. To join us, click here for Association Membership.