1. What are you most proud of when it comes to your career?
In my career, what I am most proud of is successfully navigating through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 at our first beverage store in Cairns. The Cairns flagship store opened in August 2019, and having operated for less than six months, it faced significant difficulties due to the impact of COVID-19. Overcoming such a substantial challenge in a small business located in a small city like Cairns was certainly no easy feat.
2. Tell us about your cultural heritage and how it has influenced you as a business-owner.
I was born into a traditional Chinese family, but due to being born and raised in Shanghai, which is one of the relatively international cities in China, I have been influenced by Western culture since childhood. Having lived in Australia for nearly 10 years, along with my cultural background, it can be said that many of my thought processes now are influenced by the interplay of these two cultures, potentially sharing some commonalities. These commonalities may include diligence, dedication, and perseverance. Additionally, teamwork is extremely important to me. I firmly believe in the importance of building strong relationships with both team members and clients, recognising that diverse perspectives and experiences contribute to a cumulative strength.
3. What are some of the challenges and advantages of working as a female hospitality entrepreneur in a traditionally male-dominated industry?
In my personal experience, whether working in Shanghai or Australia, I have encountered a considerable number of female entrepreneurs in the foodservice industry and hospitality industry, possibly even a majority. The most significant challenge for me is likely the physical demands of the job. Both the foodservice and hospitality industries require a substantial investment of time and physical energy, and I have to acknowledge that the physiological differences provide men with an irreplaceable advantage in this aspect. While many people may perceive women’s strengths in communication and interpersonal skills, due to my personality, I am not particularly adept at communication and social interactions. Instead, my strengths lie in critical thinking, logical reasoning, and foresight. My advantage might be having a female image combined with a male-oriented mindset.
4. What women in your life have inspired and supported you and how?
Firstly, it’s my female partners and female employees; without them, there wouldn’t be the brand we have today. Their support and encouragement are mostly reflected through their actions, and I am very grateful for that. Secondly, there’s my mother. She is not a career-oriented woman, and initially, she didn’t fully understand my entrepreneurial pursuits. However, she didn’t oppose it, and she has consistently demonstrated female resilience in her own way, which is also crucial to me.
5. What do you like to do outside of work? What do you do to relax?
To be honest, since starting my entrepreneurial journey in 2018 until now, I have been involved in or have ownership in four businesses. Work consumes a significant amount of my time and energy. I allocate the limited free time I must catch up on sleep, watch movies, or read books.
6. Tell us what patrons can expect when they dine at Meet Tea & Coffee.
Firstly, we distinguish ourselves from traditional bubble tea shops by using the freshest fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, and preparing our drinks with freshly cooked pearls. For our coffee, we select Julius coffee beans from Seven Miles, a brand with over 35 years of history. Julius happens to be my favourite coffee bean. Secondly, we offer an interactive setting. Beyond just providing beverages, we offer tabletop games suitable for friend gatherings, family interactions, and more. Meet Tea & Coffee is also highly social, emphasising the “Meet.” Whether it’s offline activities for college students or K-pop fan meet-ups, we provide a setting for people to come together, accompanied by fantastic college student staff. Customers who come to purchase drinks can even expect us to offer solutions unrelated to beverages. I aspire to shape it into a store resembling a general store where customers can find remedies for various concerns.
7. What are some of your favourite places to eat (outside your own venues) and why – can be international.
Brisbane: Sono Japanese Restaurant Portside Wharf
Cairns: Tasty Road
Because they taste good
8. Tell us about the idea behind your new venue?
The idea behind our new venue stems from a desire to create a distinctive and inclusive space for our community. We aim to offering a welcoming atmosphere for individuals of all backgrounds. Our focus is on providing not just a place to dine or drink, but an experience that engages all the senses. Through fresh ingredients, engaging staff, and a relaxed and entertaining atmosphere, we aim to make our venue unique and the top choice for those seeking interactive elements in a beverage shop.