Backstories

Introduce yourself and tell us a little about what you do.
I’m Elaine, and I work at TikTok Shop as a programme manager. I’ve been at TikTok for two years now, and I really love my team!

Is this something you’ve always wanted to do?
No la! I think programme manager is a very new role. It only came out in the last few years.

When I was growing up, I wanted to be a pilot, so I’m actually very far from it! I just like the act of flying. But I don’t think I will pass as a pilot anyway, ‘cause I wear glasses.

Do you have any other hobbies?
Yes! I like writing and interviewing people. I freelance write for a few online publishers, and I usually write about travel, or do profile pieces.

I like to chase underground music—I hate the word “underground”, but yes, I try to bring an emphasis to more unknown stories and unknown faces. So, that’s what I like to do on the side.

I also love electronic music like Shutter Rhythms, which is a community of radio DJs on YouTube. I learn a lot of new genres from there!

Since you write about travel, do you travel a lot yourself?
Yes, I do. I really love to go on the path less taken la, like South America or some random island in Indonesia… and then, I write about it! (laughs) That’s what I like to do.

You have a really unique style! What inspires it?
I try to get pieces from independent designers and artists that I really like. I’m trying to strike a balance between style and comfort, and heritage.

I’m Malaysian and I grew up in kampungs. I also like to go flea markets when I travel! Basically, I like more local Southeast Asian brands, and I try to wear more of them.