The Greater Good

That’s a unique ring you have on. Where is it from?
My friend got me this ring from Yemen. Inscribed on it are the words ‘Allah’ and ‘Prophet Muhammad’. I wear it on my pinky as a reminder of my faith to steer me away from wrongdoings.

What do you do for work and why did you decide to join this field?
I’m a branding consultant working in sales and business development in a branding and marketing agency. I’ve been doing this for four years and I hope to become more of a partner and stakeholder in the near future.

I was actually an IT engineer previously. During that time, I also started volunteering and was headhunted by a non-profit organisation. Even though I had a stable job in the IT industry, I couldn’t pass out on the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so I took on a job as a humanitarian officer.

I picked up marketing and communication skills in my five years there and eventually decided to look for job opportunities in that area. That’s how I ended up in my current job.

Tell us more about your time in relief work.
It was quite an eye-opening experience visiting third-world countries and working with under-privileged people. It was there where I found that people are so contented with what little they have—they’re grateful for the simple aid we provide, and they don’t ask for more.

It’s made me realise how good we have it in Singapore without famine or war.

What are some of your interests outside of work?
I like to play soccer and hang out with my family and friends. I also used to collect Power Ranger cards, soccer cards, stamps, and even old banknotes, but I haven’t had the time to indulge in any hobbies.

How did your interest in football start?
I started watching football back in the days of legends like Eric Cantona and Ryan Giggs in the 90’s, and I also played the sport with friends growing up.

I support the English football club, Manchester United, and my favourite player is Cristiano Ronaldo. I’ve followed his journey since he first joined the club, left for the first time to join the Spanish Real Madrid, returned, and now departed for good. I was sad when he left last season for the Saudi Arabian club, Al-Nassr, but I’ll still continue to support him as an individual.

You’re a dad too! Share with us your experience with fatherhood.
I have a two-year-old son and a baby on the way. Being a father means that I automatically have to take on responsibilities; life is no longer about what I want, but what my children need.

I definitely have to pay close attention to our finances and insurance matters now. I mean, our Goods and Services Tax will soon be 9%, I can’t imagine how expensive things will be in 10 years! Whatever it is, I’ll try to do what’s best for my children.