Of the many elements of the NUS experience, global immersion is often touted as the most transformative one. The broadening of horizons and perspectives by immersing in different cultures can bring forth creative ideas and solutions.
From friends to founders
Such was the case for two BBA (Class of 2011) alumnae Vanessa Keng and Lee Chang Xi who did their overseas exchange in Denmark. During their six months there, the two saw past the charm of European architecture and Lego amusement to how the country’s infrastructure provided a great degree of accessibility for its citizens, regardless of age of disability. They observed how elderly Danes were very independent and able to find their way around public spaces with the use of elderly mobility equipment, such as rollators and walkers. Upon returning home, they identified a gap in the market for such equipment and decided to pursue this opportunity.
College friends Vanessa Keng and Chang Xi living it up on exchange in Denmark
Bringing a golden concept to life
Being schoolmates at NUS Business School and neighbours in NUS Kent Ridge Hall, Vanessa and Chang Xi did many school projects and hall activities together. Through these experiences, they struck up great working chemistry and discovered complementing traits that make them a good team. They brainstormed business ideas regularly and were guided by their shared passion for contributing meaningfully to society. Inspired by Chang Xi’s own grandmother, who has positive attitude towards active aging, they eventually took a leap of faith to start The Golden Concepts upon graduation. The company seeks to dissolve the Singaporean stigma surrounding the use of mobility aids by creating modern, stylish eldercare solutions. The brand now offers more than 500 products ranging from mobility to bath safety and home safety. One product that invokes special pride is the designer collection of walking canes, aimed at altering the prevailing perception of walking sticks being a sign of weakness.
Showroom of The Golden Concepts
The NUS Business School foundation
Vanessa and Chang Xi credit the School for laying a clear, structured foundation on how businesses work and for honing their interpersonal skills through group project interactions. Reading Technopreneurship modules proved particularly helpful as they learned to conduct market research, prepare business plans, pitch ideas. Some classes even gave them the opportunity to test their eldercare business idea.
The Golden Concepts founders Vanessa Keng (right) and Chang Xi (left)
A note to aspiring youth entrepreneurs
To young aspiring entrepreneurs, Vanessa and Chang Xi offer these words of advice:
Don't be afraid to ask for help, and be shameless when sharing information about your business. Start early, be patient, and be resourceful. Starting and running a business is a long journey of self-discovery and growth. It is as challenging as it is rewarding.
