Move ahead with Glenfiddich’s Where Next Club
Celebrating three Malaysian men who embody a different facet of the Maverick spirit that has propelled them to the next level of their careers.
Continuing from Glenfiddich’s invitation for you to discover your unique quality, we reveal three names to keep an eye on in 2024 as up-and-coming Mavericks of the Where Next Club: model-cum-artiste Eden See, fashion designer Brian Khoo and business entrepreneur Daryl Foong.
Allow these individuals who exemplify and share the values of Glenfiddich to inspire you with their exploration of new paths, and how they boldly navigate their professional and business adventures as they push boundaries, challenge the status quo and forge their way to success.
“In a world of possibilities, knowing the essence of what makes us special and fuelling our passions is the key to unlocking our full potential,” says Arturo Lozano, Marketing Manager, SEA, William Grant & Sons. “We believe everyone possesses this Maverick spirit — one that inspires them to always look at ways to improve, aiming for the next stage in their personal and professional growth.”
Glenfiddich was founded in 1887 in Dufftown, Scotland, by innovator William Grant, whose revolutionary methods and maverick attitude to whisky production propelled Glenfiddich onto the global stage as the first single malt whisky to be promoted outside of Scotland. Now as the best-selling and most awarded single malt whisky in the world* sold in over 180 countries, the family-owned brand still operates from the distillery built by Grant.
Among the brand staples is the beautifully crafted and delicately balanced Glenfiddich 12 Year Old with a unique freshness from the same highland spring water used since 1887; the silky-smooth Glenfiddich 15 Year Old with ripe flavours of sherry oak, marzipan, cinnamon and ginger; and the exceptional Glenfiddich 18 Year Old, married in small batches of no more than 150 casks to produce an inimitable and extraordinary character and consistency for each whisky.
As with the uniqueness of each of the Glenfiddich 12, 15 and 18 expressions of the world’s most awarded single malt Scotch whisky, borne out of a pioneering and innovative spirit, the unique quality of the each of this trio will ignite a spark of possibility within you to take your own “Where Next” step on an exciting journey towards self-discovery, uncharted territories and greatness as you embrace the Maverick spirit.
*The Glenfiddich range has received more awards since 2000 than any other single malt Scotch whisky in two of the world’s most prestigious competitions, the International Wine & Spirit Competition and the International Spirits Challenge.
Eden See - The Chameleon
Can you outline the journey of your professional career?
My professional journey, initially in law, took an unexpected turn into modelling and artistry. It's been a passion-led exploration, marked by diverse experiences. Projects like Meeting Mr. Right and Super Nova Games opened new markets. I transitioned to acting and modelling, finding comfort in challenges with the blend of warmth, sensibility and tenacity through the lens.
Did you have to challenge conventions and overcome expectations in your choice of profession?
Absolutely. Transitioning from law to modelling and artistry challenged conventional expectations. Many expected a linear career but I embraced change. The move into a completely different industry disrupted norms but it allowed me to redefine success on my terms, breaking molds and proving that unconventional paths can lead to fulfilling and successful careers.
What keeps you going when the going gets tough?
Resilience is my anchor. In challenging times, my passion for reinvention fuels perseverance. The belief that each obstacle is a chance to evolve keeps me going. It's a mindset that turns adversity into a catalyst for growth, reminding me that the journey is as valuable as the destination.
What was your biggest professional roadblock and how did you overcome it?
My major roadblock was shifting from law and facing scepticism. Overcoming required unwavering self-belief. I honed my skills, proved my dedication through projects like Super Nova Games, and showcased versatility. By consistently delivering beyond expectations, I shattered doubts, affirming that passion and commitment can conquer any challenge.
From your experience, how does taking the first step into a new venture differ from taking a step towards the next level?
Taking the first step into a new venture is akin to diving into the unknown — exciting, yet uncertain. It demands courage and a willingness to learn. Stepping into the next level in a current venture requires a different kind of courage — navigating familiarity while pushing boundaries. Both involve risk, growth and the continuous pursuit of excellence.
How are you planning to reach the next level of your career?
I am presently challenging myself by delving further into the entertainment industry through variety shows. The goal is to establish a strong presence while aspiring to create distinctive works that resonate with audiences.
How do you successfully channel your unique strengths and weaknesses?
I leverage my strengths in adaptability and passion for reinvention. Being a chameleon in my career, I turn challenges into opportunities. By acknowledging weaknesses, I seek continuous improvement, transforming them into avenues for growth. This dynamic balance has been integral to achieving excellence in my multifaceted profession.
How important is a support system to achieve success?
Having a crew is like having a secret weapon. The journey's a rollercoaster, and you need your people to share the ride. Trust is the glue; when the going gets tough, knowing someone's got your back turns challenges into adventures. It's like a backstage party for success – way more fun together!
Where Next for you in your career or business?
I'm eyeing a leap into the film industry, eager to dive deeper into acting. Balancing both my entertainment journey and business pursuits, I'm on the lookout for opportunities to expand and evolve. It's about continuous learning, taking on new challenges and finding that sweet spot where passion meets growth.
How do you define success and its essential ingredients?
Success, to me, is a blend of fulfilment and impact. It's the sweet spot where passion meets purpose. Ingredients? Mix equal parts passion and hard work, sprinkle in resilience, add a dash of adaptability, and, most importantly, savour the journey. Success isn't just a destination; it's a flavourful recipe of experiences and growth.
What is your advice to those aspiring to succeed in their career and enterprise?
Embrace change like an old friend. Don't fear the unknown; it's where growth happens. Work hard, stay true to your passion and be open to learning. Surround yourself with a supportive crew — they'll lift you higher. Most importantly, enjoy the ride. Success is not just a destination, it's a journey well-travelled.
How does Glenfiddich’s “Where Next” spirit resonate with your journey?
Glenfiddich's "Where Next" spirit aligns perfectly with my journey — both celebrate the thrill of exploration. Just as they navigate uncharted territories in whisky-making, I've ventured into diverse professions. It's about pushing boundaries, embracing the unexpected, and savouring the richness of the journey. Cheers to the shared spirit of discovery!
Can you outline the journey of your career and business?
I always knew I wanted to have my own brand but I never really planned on when and how to start. But there’s one thing I was certain of which is to make sure I had enough experience before I started my adventure and not right after I graduated from uni. While studying abroad in Australia and Paris, I used the opportunity to complete as many internships as I could. It so happened that I got accepted into Christian Dior Couture and this internship helped my path professionally to a great extent.
After my internship at Christian Dior Couture, I moved to China and worked there for six months for a local Chinese brand to check out the market there and how different it is from the European and Australian markets. After China, it was time to move on to another stage in life and while thinking where to go next, I moved back to Malaysia with the idea of having a short break. During this short break, I met the right people and at the right timing — without much hesitation, I started working on my first collection and the journey began from then.
Did you have to challenge conventions and overcome expectations in your choice of profession?
Yes definitely. Even up to this stage in my career, I am still facing a lot of challenges.
What keeps you going when the going gets tough?
Thanks to my team — their passion and dedication to the brand have kept me going.
What was your biggest professional roadblock and how did you overcome it?
Life balance. Throughout the eight years since I started my brand, I have never taken some time off to relax until this year. I work seven days a week and more than 12 hours every day. Sometimes I have to pause and remind myself that I am not a machine.
How are you currently challenging yourself to get to the next level of your business?
We wanted to introduce our ready-to-wear line. It’s challenging to find the correct factories locally to create the prototypes. With the niche market here, they find it challenging to do what we wanted so we had to try out different suppliers and factories. Just have to keep pushing ourselves to find the solutions.
How do you successfully channel your unique strengths and weaknesses to achieve excellence in what you do?
Communicating with my team constantly, whether it is good or bad, and sharing the experiences and problems in finding a solution to fix the issues together.
How important is a support system to achieve success?
Very important — it is not a one-man show. I wouldn’t be able to achieve what I have now without the support system from my team and family.
Where Next for you in your fashion business?
To have my own accessories line like bags and shoes. With the right timing, the right people and beliefs, we will get there one day.
How do you define success and its essential ingredients?
Having the chance to do what I love, having my work admired and having the opportunity to inspire others define success for me.
What is your advice to those aspiring to succeed in their career and enterprise?
Stay focused and stay patient; success doesn’t come in one day. You had to work hard for it and don’t stop halfway because of some challenges. Go against it, learn from it and show yourself that nothing can stop you as long as you believe in yourself. If you don’t believe in yourself, how would others believe in you?
How does Glenfiddich’s “Where Next” spirit resonate with your journey?
Glenfiddich’s “Where Next” spirit reflects my journey as I have never been afraid to dream big and to grab hold of opportunities when they appear. Of course, I am constantly mindful that only with hard work and persistence can challenges be overcome and progress made. That said, I remind myself to enjoy life and enjoy the moment while I work to make sure that the “next” thing will come to me eventually.
Can you outline the journey of your professional career?
I started in a small PR firm doing events management, corporate PR, and investor relations before moving to L’Oreal Malaysia where I oversaw brand and product development for a couple of years. I was recalled to the family business where I worked at The Body Shop for about 4 years before moving to Aquaria.
Did you have to challenge conventions and overcome expectations in your choice of profession?
Being from a privileged background, there seemed to be an expectation that I’d be unable or unwilling to do some tasks. Perversely, it was also expected that I perform above expectations due to that same background. I don’t think it was an unfair assumption, and simple enough to overcome. I just did my job to the best of my ability and tried to learn as much as I could from those with more experience (which at the time was everybody).
What keeps you going when the going gets tough?
The responsibility I hold towards my staff and colleagues who depend on me to show up. I am in a position of authority, and I take the duty of care that comes with it very seriously.
What was your biggest professional roadblock and how did you overcome it?
An enduring challenge throughout my professional career has been the family business — whether by association or by direct involvement. Sometimes we challenge each other on our decisions, and because of how much care and dedication we have for the businesses, it can be hard to “let go” — the worries literally follow you home and into your dreams at night! Ultimately the key to this is acknowledging your own involvement and ego, remembering it all comes from the same place — a desire to do right by the business.
From your experience, how does taking the first step into a new venture differ from taking a step into the next level?
They are both as hard as the other. New ventures require you to rise and challenge others for your place in a new world, while “going to the next level” requires introspection and challenging yourself.
How are you planning to reach the next level of your business?
I’m undertaking to grow our business sustainability, which means growing and supporting our teams, management pipeline, and professionalism. It requires us to step outside what we’re comfortable with and challenges us to grow both personally and professionally.
How important is a support system to achieve success?
It’s very important! It goes hand in hand with professional success. If you have a strong support system, you’ll find you meet your goals easier. If you’ve been successful without one, you’ll quickly start recognising the necessity of it.
Where Next for you in your career or business?
I’m growing our existing businesses regionally and expanding into new locations throughout Asia. One of the key factors in how successful I am in this is ensuring our business is sustainable — not just in the commercial sense, but from an internal, organisational perspective.
How do you define success and its essential ingredients?
Success is defined through happiness. What that means for each person, and how truthful they are to themselves about it is a journey unique to each of us. One thing that I’ve found helpful is to seek out new experiences and perspectives which have helped me define my sense of happiness.
What is your advice to those aspiring to succeed in their career and enterprise?
Define for yourself what your measures of success are. Be open, be humble and be responsible for yourself. Seek out new experiences, and welcome new challenges as an opportunity to learn and grow.
How does Glenfiddich’s “Where Next” spirit resonate with your journey?
Stepping out of my comfort zone, challenging myself and not backing down from hardships. Asking ourselves “Where Next”, seeking out new experiences, and the wisdom that comes with that have been the strongest contributors to my own journey.
