Emily Teng

Tell us your story, how did you get here?

I provide intentional, personalised and supportive coaching for community leaders, change-makers and visionary leaders who are making a meaningful impact in the world.

Previously, I spent eight years in the media world. I had my own radio show where storytelling, multi-tasking and connecting with others were key. While working in radio and in my 20s, I founded a non-profit organisation that’s now award-winning and globally recognised. It regularly serves children and young people from vulnerable neighbourhoods to lead fulfilled lives through a safe and trusted community space, meaningful mentorship and experiences.

For over a decade, I’ve been in the social impact and community building space. I’ve worked with partners such as Ben & Jerry’s, Singapore Airlines, Twitter, Facebook, Salesforce and more. My story has appeared in the news and my life’s service has been honoured by Singapore’s President, recognised by Tatler’s Generation T list, selected by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and named one of the most inspiring leaders in the world by Facebook.

My zone of genius is in creating brave spaces and belonging, making people feel seen, valued and heard. And coaching people to live their dreams instead of chasing them on a hamster wheel of endless productivity and hustle. I continue to remote-lead my non-profit working from home after years of experiencing my own trials, frustrations and burnout. It was a burnout so bad that I collapsed in a public place and was sent to the hospital where doctors with furrowed brows told me I was too stressed and overworked.

That’s how my journey of unlearning, relearning and learning new ways of living, leading and being started to unfold, and it continues to this day.

I’m met with amusement whenever I share what I’ve done in my life and career. From having my own radio show to becoming a Nike Ambassador for Southeast Asia. From being burnt out from the social impact space while leading an entire organisation on my own to making people do burpees and push-ups as a fitness instructor. I’ve done so many things. But as I connect the dots, it’s clear to me that I’ve always been energised to serve and support others to flourish.

When I’m not helping other change-makers and community leaders, you’ll find me spending time with my husband, Mark, our sweet and cuddly golden retriever, Molly, our hospice pup, Mochi, and a home full of other senior rescue dogs and fosters we welcome to stay with us throughout the year.

What impact have you made in Singapore?

I’d like to think that the impact I’ve made extends beyond the metrics of how many lives I’ve served through my non-profit, Blessings in a Bag. It’s in the random acts of everyday kindness. It’s in the way I unlearn and relearn ways of being that no longer serve me (or the people around me). It’s in the way I hold space for friends, family and strangers through coaching and conversation.

For my non-profit, we believe every child has a right to opportunities, loving support and space to build their dreams. We believe in a future where young Singaporeans can shine their brightest, regardless of their background or circumstances. Over 100 children have taken part in our program over the last two years, many more since we started over five years ago.

I’ve also started a new initiative called Well Within Good. We provide valuable content to support people to rest, reimagine, re-align and reconnect with themselves, each other and the world. I’m really energised and excited to do this after many years of listening to experiences of burnout, stress and prioritising everything else over well-being.

What does 2022 look like for you?

I’m completing my coaching certification but I’m already working one-on-one with clients, which has been so fulfilling to see them take steps toward their dreams and visions.

I’m working on a podcast together with my team at Well Within Good where you can look forward to meaningful conversations with global visionaries and leaders about their journeys and behind the scenes. Their routines, habits, and how the well-being of who they are is so connected to the impact. We’ll also be inviting guest guides to share wisdom and best practices that you can incorporate into your own life and leadership. Expect bite-sized tips, personal stories and reflection prompts from me and the team – all to support the flourishing of you and your life’s most meaningful work.

For my team at Blessings in a Bag, we’re looking to expand our impact on the lives of Singapore’s children living in vulnerable neighbourhoods. Look out for inspiring volunteer opportunities and part-time roles.

I’m looking forward to spending more time with loved ones and cultivating meaningful friendships!

What do you love most about Singapore?

It’s really about the community for me. It’s the people that have been part of my “Singapore story” for the years here (as I was previously living in Australia and Indonesia). The heartfelt connections are truly what matter to me – they’re what I hope to continue being a part of now and in the future.

What’s the one change in the world you’d like to see?

Lifelong education of the heart and soul (from the heart). And a strong(er) connection to nature and each other, instead of our Wi-Fi and phones!