My name is Ryan, and I'm from Sabah, Malaysia. I graduated from the Department of Tourism at Providence University. I went to Taiwan to study when I was under 18 years old. One of the reasons I chose to study in Taiwan was because my language skills were not very good, and if I continued my studies in Malaysia, my proficiency in Malay or English might have limited my personal development. I didn't want language to restrict my learning in terms of professional abilities, so I chose a Chinese-language education environment to continue my studies. Of course, besides studying professional knowledge in Chinese at Providence, we also had English classes that were divided based on everyone's English proficiency, which helped me improve my English skills.

Providence University has nurtured me to become a person with diverse professional abilities. As a graduate of the Department of Tourism, I specialized in two programs: Tourism Industry Management and Hotel Management. The Tourism Department at Providence is part of the College of Management, so in addition to learning professional knowledge about the tourism industry, there is also a focus on management skills. Subjects like management and human resource management were compulsory for us.

During my university years, I joined the Overseas Chinese Student Association and actively incorporated my professional knowledge into event planning, organizing various activities for overseas students, protecting their rights and addressing their concerns. I also joined the Sabah Overseas Students Association In Taiwan, with the goal of revitalizing the declining organization within two years. In the first year, we reorganized all the data, solved financial issues, and communicated with Overseas Community Affairs Council, R.O.C (Taiwan) to assist the association. In the second year, we established systematic operations, increased and enhanced cohesion through more activities, and most importantly, cultivated new talents to carry on the work. Being the president of two associations during these two years was a very fulfilling experience for me. I was even awarded a certificate by Overseas Community Affairs Council, R.O.C (Taiwan) in recognition of my contributions and efforts for the Sabah Overseas Students Association In Taiwan.

Although there was a lot of pressure over the two years, I felt a great sense of satisfaction after each event. Having passion is crucial because with passion, you can endure even the toughest challenges. It taught me the importance of teamwork and effective communication. A team is incomplete without every member, and expressing ideas is essential for problem-solving. Leading a whole team is not an easy task, but as experience accumulates, one's approach becomes more mature, and the team has the opportunity to reach new heights. Through the collaboration in these two associations, I developed a higher tolerance for stress, improved my emotional intelligence management, time planning skills, and social abilities.

Due to my background in tourism and my outstanding performance in event planning within the associations, I was able to secure a position as an event planner in Taiwan Colatour Company after graduation. My main responsibilities included event planning for corporate clients and incentive travel projects. This involved incorporating activities into travel itineraries, such as gala dinners and team-building events, which I was in charge of planning and proposing. Over the past three years, I have been involved in numerous projects, both big and small, for clients such as NUSKIN, AMWAY, Dorsett, McDonald's, Nissan, TOYOTA, and TAIPEI FUBON LIFE, among others. Through these experiences, I have further honed my expertise in event planning.

In early 2020, I decided to return to my hometown to start my own event planning studio, called "FUNS CREATIVE EVENT," in Sabah, Malaysia. I wanted to bring back the professionalism and knowledge I gained in Taiwan to this place. Although Sabah's development may not be as rapid as that of big cities, I see more opportunities in smaller places. Many young people choose not to come back for development, but for those who are willing, I believe the market belongs to you. I have also enhanced my other professional abilities based on market demand. Currently, I work as a wedding emcee, event venue decorator, and event planner, among other roles.

Initially, I only took on private projects, but this year, I officially established my own storefront studio. I am grateful for the cultivation and careful nurturing provided by Providence University, thankful for the opportunities given by Taiwan Colatour company, and lastly, I want to thank my brave self for daring to go to Taiwan alone after graduating from high school and for making the brave decision to return and start my own business after eight and a half years! Entrepreneurship is not easy, especially in a slower-paced industry like mine, which is considered a startup in this region without precedents. It's certain that I will face criticism or ridicule, but that's okay! I have my own path to walk, and I have dreams to pursue. I encourage you, who are also pursuing your dreams, not to be afraid or scared because you are not alone. Along the way, you will meet like-minded partners. Think about the worst-case scenario, and you won't be so afraid!