Image by rudall30 via Shutterstock Remember back in 2013, when venture capitalist and founder of Cowboy Ventures, Aileen Lee, coined a specific term to represent a distinctive class of start-ups that were breaking the norms and catching the eye of investors worldwide? That's right, the label 'unicorn' was born. In the world of business, a unicorn isn't a mythical creature fresh out of a fantasy novel. Rather, it is an exceptional title granted to private companies or startups valued over a whopping $1 billion. Just as elusive and awe-inspiring as their fictional namesakes, these companies embark on the adventurous journey from mere concepts to billion-dollar businesses. But the unicorn landscape has dramatically changed. Seeing a startup reach unicorn status is no longer a rare…
How a Triple-E Student Found His Place in AI and Computing? When Kelvin Kok, Founder & Chief Architect of Axrail enrolled at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) to study Electronic and Electrical Engineering (EEE), the world of computer programming was not even on his radar. Like many young undergraduates, he had no clear idea of his long-term career path. A chance internship during his third year would change everything and set him on a trajectory that would eventually lead to founding one of Southeast Asia’s fast-growing AI companies. A Chance Encounter with the World of Code In Kelvin’s early NTU days, programming felt abstract, little more than writing scripts to print stars and shapes on a screen. “Back then, it made…
OOm Founders Ian Cheow and Wyvan Xu For an SME, digital marketing can seem overwhelming. With so many options, tools, and jargon, where does one even begin? This is where Optimal Online Marketing (OOm) steps in. Founded in 2006, OOm is a one-stop digital marketing agency with 18 years of experience, dedicated to helping clients achieve their goals in all aspects of improving their online presence. The agency covers critical areas such as Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), Search Engine Marketing (SEM), Social Media Management (SMM), content creation, and website design and development. As a Premier Google Partner and Meta Business Partner, OOm is recognised among the top 3% of Google Partners in Singapore. This highlights the agency’s proficiency in managing…
Image by Leesa Soulodre Leesa Soulodre possesses a diverse background in deeptech leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, and risk management. "My approach has always been to take unconventional paths and question established norms - and to take the road less traveled - so it's no wonder I ended up in venture capital. - Leesa Soulodre Originally from Australia, Leesa Soulodre's entrepreneurial journey has taken her around the world. Here are some of her career highlights: Advising over 400 companies across 19 sectors in Europe, Asia, and America. She is a sought-after speaker on global stages due to her expertise in digital transformation, masters and robots, reputation risk management, and innovation strategy. Playing a role in 3 tech exits across cybersecurity, financial services,…
How to Prepare For Feedback Conversations In our previous article, we explored the power of self-awareness. This week, we dive into the art of navigating tough conversations and exchanging feedback with clarity and care. Giving and receiving feedback are deeply intertwined with self-awareness and emotional intelligence in the workplace. Before stepping into any feedback conversation, preparation rooted in self-awareness is essential. Understanding our own emotions, triggers, and behavioral patterns helps us approach feedback calmly and confidently. Self-aware leaders consider the recipient’s emotional state, while emotionally intelligent individuals manage their reactions, viewing feedback as an opportunity for growth rather than criticism. More importantly, when feedback is exchanged within a culture of trust, it fosters constructive dialogue, vulnerability, and mutual respect, thereby…
