Your Journey
Q1. When you first started your career, what did “purpose” mean to you and how has that definition evolved over the years?
Early in my career, “purpose” was quite simple — do good work, don’t mess up, and hopefully earn a promotion someday. Like most young professionals, I was focused on learning, surviving deadlines, and proving myself.
Over time, the definition evolved. Purpose today feels less about personal success and more about impact and influence. At AIS, I get to connect people, ideas, and opportunities, whether it’s shaping strategic pursuits, supporting teams across Asia, or driving CSR initiatives that give our colleagues the chance to contribute beyond project delivery.
I’ve realised that purpose isn’t always one big heroic moment. Most of the time it is the small consistent actions, helping teams succeed, opening doors for others, or creating opportunities for people to grow.
Q2. Looking back, what moments shaped you most as a professional and as a woman in the construction industry?
Construction and infrastructure are still very male-dominated industries, and when I started out it wasn’t unusual to walk into a meeting and be one of the few women in the room.
Instead of seeing that as a barrier, I learned to see it as motivation. The industry rewards people who show up prepared, think clearly, and deliver results.
Some of the moments that shaped me the most were the times I had to figure things out when no one had a clear answer. Whether it was managing complex pursuits, coordinating across different teams and countries, or stepping into leadership responsibilities earlier than expected, those experiences built confidence.
And of course, there were many mentors and colleagues who trusted me with responsibility before I was entirely sure I was ready.
Q3. Was there a turning point where you realised you were capable of more than you initially believed?
At some point I realised that the things I thought were “impossible” earlier in my career — leading regional initiatives, shaping strategy discussions, or coordinating across multiple countries had simply become part of the job.
It made me realise that growth often happens quietly while you’re busy doing the work.
Challenges & Achievements
Q4. What achievement are you most proud of — not just professionally, but personally?
Personally, I’m proud that I’ve managed to stay curious and keep learning even after many years in the industry. I’m ADHD (most people probably wouldn’t guess…), so my brain tends to run on many tabs at once. Over time I’ve learned to channel that energy into being adaptable, creative and comfortable juggling a lot of moving parts. I’m also raising a child who is neurodivergent with strong ASD traits. Life can be quite… energetic in our household. But it has also taught me patience, adaptability, and empathy in ways no leadership course ever could.
Balancing a demanding career while raising a family like this hasn’t always been easy, but it has definitely shaped who I am — both as a person and as a leader.
Professionally, I’m proud of helping build a culture where people feel connected — across teams, countries, and disciplines. Through communications, CSR programmes, and internal initiatives, we’ve created opportunities for colleagues to engage with the community, mentor young professionals, and contribute ideas beyond their day-to-day roles.
Q5. Have you ever faced self-doubt? What helped you push through?
Of course. Anyone who says they never have probably isn’t being completely honest. There will always be moments where you wonder if you’re doing the right thing.
What helped me push through is a simple mindset: focus on solving the next problem. Not the entire mountain, just the next step.
Also, I’ve learned that building strong teams makes a huge difference. No one succeeds alone in this industry.
People & Leadership
Q6. What does inclusive leadership mean to you?
To me, inclusive leadership about making sure people feel heard and valued.
In practical terms, that means creating environments where junior colleagues feel comfortable speaking up, where diverse perspectives are welcomed, and where people are encouraged to grow into leadership roles themselves.
Q7. What does the theme of International Women’s Day 2026 – “Give to Gain” mean to you?
The phrase resonates deeply with me.
Throughout my career, the most meaningful opportunities often came from people who gave their time, guidance, or trust.
“Give to Gain” reminds us that success isn’t a zero-sum game. When we invest in others, whether through mentorship, collaboration, or community work, the entire organisation grows stronger.
CSR & Purpose in Action
Q8. Outside of work, you’re actively involved in CSR initiatives. What motivates you to give your time and energy to community causes?
Infrastructure ultimately exists to serve communities, so CSR feels like a natural extension of what we do.
At AIS, our CSR initiatives bring colleagues together for causes ranging from food bank drives to community engagement programmes. These activities create a sense of shared purpose that goes beyond our daily work.
Personally, volunteering also keeps things in perspective. It reminds me that even small efforts can make someone’s day a little better.
And honestly, some of the most fun moments with colleagues have happened during CSR events — including the surprisingly memorable experience of cleaning toilets together.
Q9. Has volunteering changed the way you see leadership or success?
Yes. Volunteering reminds you that leadership isn’t always about authority. Sometimes it’s simply about showing up, helping out, and being present for others. It also reinforces the idea that success isn’t just measured by professional milestones. It’s also measured by the positive impact we create for people around us.
Wellbeing
Q10. With so many responsibilities, how do you prioritise your wellbeing?
I try to stay active — running, hiking, and spending time outdoors help clear my mind. Running is my therapy. I average about 120–150 km a month, which is probably how I process stress, clear my head, and convince myself that ice cream is justifiable.
Life is busy, but movement has a way of resetting your perspective.
Also, my dog Casey has a strong opinion about daily walks, so skipping them isn’t really an option.
Inspiration
Q11. What message would you share with young women just beginning their careers?
Don’t wait until you feel completely ready — most people never do.
Be curious, ask questions, and take opportunities even when they feel slightly intimidating.
And remember two simple phrases I live by: “I am possible” and “Move on.”
Believe in your ability to figure things out — and when things don’t go perfectly, learn quickly and keep moving forward.
Q12. In one sentence, how would you describe the legacy you hope to build?
If people around me think a little bigger, try things they once thought were impossible, and occasionally hear my voice saying “Move on” when things don’t go perfectly — that’s the kind of legacy I’d be happy with.
