Singapore, My Second Home - A National Day Reflection

As Singapore celebrates its 59th birthday, I find myself reflecting on my own journey in this country.

As a proud resident, I want to share my story of how Singapore has become my second home.

When I first arrived in Singapore, I was both excited and nervous.

The hot weather, fast-paced lifestyle, and unfamiliar culture had me questioning if I had made the right choice.

I would often sit at bus stops and in shopping malls, just watching the locals go about their day with such ease.

How did they do it?

Would I ever feel that sense of belonging?

Slowly but surely, I started to find my footing.

Making new friends at the neighborhood park, attending cultural events, and sharing meals with others - these activities helped me build a community.

But it was a particular BBQ evening that triggered my strengths.

As my friends talked about their upcoming holiday plans, one comment really struck me:

"Why are you planning?

You don't even earn, so your opinion doesn't matter." In that moment, I felt so embarrassed, angry, and ashamed.

But instead of letting those feelings bring me down, I used them to prove my worth.

That's when Singapore happened for me.

Yes, this country can be expensive and challenging at times. But it also encourages you to be your best self.

The great infrastructure, community resources, and government support systems have all been crucial in helping me regain my self-confidence and achieve my entrepreneurial dreams.

The journey hasn't been easy, but Singapore has been there for me every step of the way - from the covered walkways to the NTUC hubs to the public libraries and countless grants.

To any fellow expats or aspiring Singaporeans out there, I know the transition can feel daunting.

But I'm living proof that with resilience and the support of this remarkable country and its people, you too can redefine your path and thrive.

And on that note, I'm thrilled to announce a special giveaway from my dear friend Push Sharma!

Push Sharma is the Founder & CEO of Haldy? and has launched the World’s First Sugarfree Turmeric Mints in Singapore manufactured in a US F.D.A. & B.R.C.G.S. (Food Safety) certified facility.

This product has?gone beyond traditional boundaries and has?been recognized?for its effectiveness and ingenuity, being the World’s First.

In a short span of time, the start-up has received exemplary industry recognition for their innovation and have received various awards:

– PAC Global Award 2024?for Brand Marketing (New Brand | Food), USA

– SME 500 Award 2023, Singapore?

– Titan Business Startup of The Year 2023?Award, USA

– MUSE Design Award 2023, USA

– GAMA Innovation Finalist Award 2023, UK

– FIT Summit (Beyond Activ) Finalist Award 2023, Singapore

Now you can bring Haldy to your home and office.

As Singapore turns 59, I'm filled with immense gratitude and I can't wait to see what the future holds.

Happy National Day, Singapore!

#SingaporeNationalDay #ProudSingaporeResident #SingaporeExpatLife #skyhightower #lbfalumni