Tell me what your parents would say to describe you.

Independent and strong-headed which I think has worked out well for me.

Tell me what your friends would say to describe you.

Someone who is bubbly and a little bit crazy because I like to inject fun in everything I do whether it is a serious project or a trip because I feel that is important.

During the course of your studies, was there ever a time when you questioned yourself or your choice?

No, and that is because prior to university, I took a diploma in Ngee Ann Polytechnic in Business and Social Enterprise where we learned about how we can help people especially those who are marginalized.  From that course, I grew an interest in housing particularly for those less fortunate.  In Singapore’s context, this would be rental housing but in other cities, this would be in the form of halfway houses.  I like the work of Mercy Housing a non-profit organization that develops affordable housing. I took up real estate course in NUS to further knowledge with this interest.  My intention ultimately is to be involved in non-profit housing in third world countries.

What’s the biggest misunderstanding about real estate?

There are many people who think real estate studies is about learning how to be a real estate agent.  That is such a huge misconception because there is so much more aspects to real estate on top of helping people how to buy homes and figuring out mortgage loans.

Assuming there is no such thing as a career in real estate, what might you have pursued?

I think I would still be very keen to participate in social work so I might be a social worker or maybe take up coding and apply that in some way to help people.

Which real estate company are you most fascinated about? Why?

I think Lendlease is very interesting because of the work they do for society and their work towards zero carbon.  Things like sustainability and minimizing carbon footprint is very important to me especially since future consumers will look beyond aesthetics, locations, amenities and consider if the company they are buying from is making a social impact and doing good.

Is there any particular real estate personality that you are intrigued by? Why?

I am intrigued by Donald Trump because of the work he has done with Trump Towers.  It demonstrated gentrification quite profoundly and inspired me to address issues that arose from it.

Read about the WLI Singapore Commendation Award ceremony