Zouk has not only been a stomping ground for me and many of us, but a legacy name and a pioneer in the party scene in Singapore and in Asia. Besides simply being the place we would Mambo at on Wednesday or down sour plum shots on Friday nights, what are some lessons we can learn from Zouk's evolution? Can an institution like this be shaken or stirred in a time of crisis?
Where does it face similar and different challenges from other businesses or creatives on the ground like us?
I personally loved this friendly chat with Zouk Group's CEO, Andrew Li about his personal career journey in getting to where he is today, along with the pivots that he and his team have made in the recent year.
We start off by hearing about Andrew's journey fresh from University where he gets his teeth cut in the lively and demanding world of hospitality, and I ask him how he rose through the ranks so quickly to get to where he's at today.
Being in his 30s, some may find Andrew fairly young as Zouk's CEO, but I quickly see that doesn't mean he's unseasoned or inexperienced, and am quickly inspired by his grit, spirit of excellence and his genuine passion for hospitality.
We also unpack the mindsets, moments and life lessons that have shaped and formed his attitudes and success.
For example, When he moved from UK, to Bangkok, to China and then to Hong Kong, he had to face a decision whether to re-start his career with Four Seasons in Hong Kong by starting from the bottom once again - and thankfully it paid off and paved the way for where he is today.
(Note to self: Life is not linear, and sometimes we do move backwards to go forward.)
Some of my other personal favourite moments in this interview:
- Andrew shares some of the key values that matter to him in deciding whether to take a job opportunity or work under someone
- Andrew's personal routines (he sleeps at 9.30pm every weeknight!!)
- Zouk opening in Vegas and we bond over our experiences there of world-class hospitality
In the last part of the interview, I hope to give voice and bring in perspective to what's happening on ground. Even as Andrew represents Zouk and an institution of nightlife, I share with Andrew some of the frustrations and sentiments of individuals who's livelihoods have been greatly affected by the current restrictions and closures.
I read out a portion of Adrian Wee (eatmepoptart)'s Facebook post, along with this article and ask him for his response - it's pretty thoughtful.
https://www.lifeinarpeggio.com/blog/clubs-singapore-not-opening-taking-part-pilot-scheme?fbclid=IwAR0Q0dkQc3jzEFCiPEyrb3KPMGJc9KmAd8aouyYbGojrgAHBmleqHZcK6CA
CONNECT:
GUEST: Andrew Li
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-li-90a91050
HOST: Estelle Kiora
@the.purposepreneur @estellekiora
Please SHARE this podcast with your friends & FOLLOW @the.purposepreneur on IG for special updates, personal thoughts, bad jokes and tips on life, purpose & creativity, exclusive event invites and GIVEAWAYS!
*All views & opinions expressed by the host and episode guests are our own, and do not represent any organizations or partners that we are affiliated with.*
WHO AM I & WHAT DO I DO EXACTLY?:
I'm Estelle - a social media entrepreneur from Singapore and this podcast is powered by Zero Copycat Social - a creative engine for creating content, conversations and community, to spark purpose and creativity in the world. We do this through social media marketing, social media coaching, content marketing & development, workshops, and other creative projects and experiences.
Get in touch with us at
[email protected].
