Sarah Huang Benjamin
chef, content creator, food writer and filmmaker
With the end-of-year celebrations drawing near, it's the perfect time to appreciate the unspoken joys and gems in our lives. Let's hear from these strong, inspirational women on what motivates them, what they're grateful for in their journey and the hidden gems they have to share with the #LBCommunity!
Introduce yourself and tell us how a typical week goes for you!
I’m Sarah and I’m a chef, content creator, food writer and filmmaker. Every day is completely different for me, which I love! I’m not a huge fan of routine, so I really enjoy that my work creates a little adventure for me everyday. I usually spend two days a week filming and editing content, and that usually takes an extra day of prep, like planning the recipes and gathering the ingredients.
Whenever I’m not rushing in the morning, I try to start my day with a bit of meditation and journaling. This practice has really helped me a lot in the past year, and I’m so passionate about it – I’m always talking my friends’ ears off about it. The remainder of my work week could look like researching hawker heritage and culture, having meetings with clients, or other projects. My weekends are sacred, and I always try to spend time with friends, preferably outdoors, eating good food and drinking good wine.
What has made you laugh or smile recently?
My cats! I’m a proud crazy cat lady, and I love having them around. Looking at their little faces and paws makes me so happy, and seeing how content they are with the simple things is always a good reminder to be grateful for what I have.
"A long time ago, I made a decision to never regret anything, because there’s a lesson in everything."
Who or what inspires you?
My parents inspire me. Being their child is the thing I’m most grateful for in this life. My father is so knowledgeable but he never shies away from learning more. His love of learning and sharing has inspired me in my work from the beginning.
My mother is one of the most fearless people I’ve ever known. She always faces challenges head on, even if they’re difficult. Because she’s guided by what she knows to be right. That, and her curiosity about the world, really inspire me.
What life experiences have you had that you’re grateful for?
This might sound cheesy, but I’m grateful for every experience in my life. A long time ago, I made a decision to never regret anything, because there’s a lesson in everything.
One experience I’m really grateful for is my parents letting me drop out of junior college to take my A Levels as a private candidate in the UK. It was such an “out there” choice, but I proposed it to them after I had done my research and they supported me fully. That experience of living overseas and away from my family, having to manage my own studies, really taught me a lot about independence. But most of all, having my parents’ support showed me that I could do whatever it is that I chose, as long as I was sure about it.
"Just myself, a good book, a big water bottle, a simple packed lunch and a mat, and I’m happy."
Which gemstone do you strongly identify yourself with?
I don’t know if this counts as a gemstone but I identify with rose quartz. It signifies boundless love, and that’s something I really resonate with. I try to bring an energy of love to everything I do and everyone I meet, and I let that energy guide my decisions and choices.
What’s one hidden gem you’ve discovered this year?
This isn’t a specific place, but the beach picnic is my favourite hidden gem this year! I love to be by the sea and Singapore has so many beaches. It’s not a groundbreaking idea to have a picnic on the sand, but what I’ve discovered this year is that it doesn’t have to be anything fancy. Just myself, a good book, a big water bottle, a simple packed lunch and a mat, and I’m happy.
Our Global Network
Tanya Maria Aguila
PHILIPPINES
"Remember that your values serve as your compass through life."
