Student Stories

Pursuing a Doctorate Degree with the University of Canberra has been a fulfilling chapter in my academic and professional life. As an Associate Lecturer in both the Business and Media & Communication programmes, I was motivated to further my research capabilities and bring more nuanced insights into my teaching practice. The journey has been intellectually rigorous yet incredibly rewarding.

My research investigates the role of ethnic chambers of commerce in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within Singapore’s multicultural society. These chambers operate at the intersection of economic development and cultural representation—offering networking, advocacy, and capacity-building tailored to the needs of specific ethnic communities. Drawing from my professional experience leading a national-level business chamber in Singapore, I have an insider’s perspective on the operational, governance, and cultural complexities these organisations must navigate. This background has inspired me to explore how ethnic chambers navigate internal diversity while aligning with national economic goals, and how they can strengthen their organisational effectiveness.

Professionally, my research has refined my capacity to bridge theory and real-world practice. It has enriched my teaching in areas such as governance, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning. The doctoral journey has further enabled me to examine complex organisational dynamics with greater criticality, particularly in culturally diverse and multi-stakeholder environments.

Receiving the Dean’s Excellence Award for Semester 1, 2025 is a significant honour. I regard it not only as recognition of academic diligence, but also as validation of the importance of integrating professional experience with scholarly inquiry. Grounding my research in lived experience, alongside sustained engagement with my supervisors, have been integral to my progress throughout the programme. This recognition has reinforced my commitment to contributing meaningfully across academia, industry, and policy discourse. It has also opened new avenues for interdisciplinary collaboration and professional development.

To fellow students, my advice is to stay true to your purpose, remain curious, and be open to learning from both theory and lived experience. When your research is guided by genuine interest and personal insight, the journey becomes more enriching—and each step forward feels purposeful and worthwhile.