In a world where the entrepreneurial journey often demands resilience, risk, and
relentless drive, it is a rare honour to spotlight two exceptional women who embody all these qualities and more. At this year’s Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Awards, we are proud to recognise the outstanding contributions of Ms Angela Hong and Ms Jae Teo —two visionary founders who are not just building successful businesses, but shaping industries, empowering communities, and leading with purpose.
For Ms Angela, entrepreneurship is a journey of meaning. She built her business from the ground up with a clear vision: to create a career that aligned with her values, her talents, and her desire to work on her own terms. “Being able to choose what I work on, who I work with, and how I spend my time—that’s the freedom that fuels me,” she shares.
Her venture, grounded in integrity and professional excellence, stands out not just for what it offers, but how it’s delivered. With a commitment to staying ahead through continual learning and technological advancement, Ms Angela has cultivated a business that is as adaptable as it is authentic. Her clients know her not only as a provider, but as a partner—someone who delivers quality, meets deadlines, and never backs down from a challenge.
At the heart of her success lies a strong sense of accountability. “My sense of responsibility to my clients drives everything I do,” she explains. That sense of duty has carried her through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, particularly in the early days when she relied solely on her personal savings to get started. “I wish I had started earlier,” she admits, “but I’ve learned that it’s possible to build something meaningful on your own terms despite the challenges.”
Looking ahead, Ms Angela envisions continued growth—not just in profits, but in the ability to live a balanced, fulfilled life. She defines success not by accolades or revenue, but by personal growth, meaningful contributions, and maintaining her integrity, health, and relationships. Time management and discipline are her secret weapons, enabling her to balance business and life with grace.
When asked what advice she would offer aspiring women entrepreneurs, her answer is succinct and powerful: “Keep going.” She leads by example, proving that with courage and resilience, it’s not only possible to thrive—it’s inevitable.
If Ms Angela represents discipline and purpose, then Ms Jae is a beacon of empathy, inclusion, and transformation. A proud advocate for neurodiversity— and neurodivergent herself — Ms Jae has created not just a business, but a movement. Her company is known for its progressive values and people-first culture, where diversity of thought is not just welcomed, but celebrated.
Innovation, for Ms Jae, comes not from chasing trends but from listening deeply. “I stay curious and pay attention to what clients actually need,” she says. “A lot of innovation comes from solving real problems in smarter ways.”
Her approach to leadership is grounded in authenticity and compassion. From implementing a four-day work week to nurturing an inclusive culture, Ms Jae is redefining what success looks like in today’s business landscape. “If my employees feel appreciated and happy coming to work, that’s already a big win for me,” she affirms.
Her entrepreneurial journey hasn’t been without challenges. Like many founders, she bootstrapped her business using personal savings. But what sets Ms Jae apart is her ability to stay grounded in her mission, even during tough times. “When things get hard, I think about why I started—to support my team and advocate for neurodiversity. That purpose keeps me going.”
One of the most poignant insights she shares is how complex it becomes to take personal time off as a business owner. “It taught me the importance of building strong teams and systems,” she says. Her candid honesty about this shift from employee to leader is a refreshing reminder of the hidden layers of entrepreneurship.
Her definition of success goes beyond the boardroom. It’s about creating impact, uplifting others, and using her platform to make workplaces safer, kinder, and more inclusive. “Integrity and empathy can go hand in hand in leadership,” she says—and she proves it every day.
To aspiring entrepreneurs, Ms Jae offers this heartfelt advice: “Trust your voice and be patient with the journey. Staying true to your values will guide you through.” Through her advocacy, her transparency, and her fearless pursuit of change, she is inspiring a new generation of women to lead boldly and believe in the power of their own stories.
Ms Angela and Ms Jae represent two different but equally powerful facets of entrepreneurship—one rooted in unwavering responsibility and strategic discipline, the other in empathetic leadership and progressive innovation. Together, they exemplify what it means to lead with both head and heart.
With the Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs Awards, we celebrate not only their achievements but the enduring impact of their work. These are not just businesswomen—they are changemakers, role models, and beacons for the next generation of leaders. Their stories remind us that the entrepreneurial path may be filled with challenges, but with purpose, resilience, and integrity, it becomes a path worth walking.
