At 25, Nelson’s dream of being a filmmaker in Melbourne, Australia was thwarted when his dad passed away from cancer and he had to return to Singapore to help out in a failing family business. After finally turning the business around in 2007, he started his own company, The Benjamin Barker Group, a business comprising of both Fashion retail and F&B. Today, the business has grown across 5 countries and he currently manages a growing team of 90 employees.

As an entrepreneur, what is it that motivates and drives you?

Building a great company. A company that creates real value for both internal (our employees) and external stakeholders (our customers). My passion is to create products that either make life better, easier, or empower others for successful living. At the same time, building an environment that has a positive and empowering culture for growth.

What would you say are the key elements for starting and running a successful business?

A whole lot of Grit, Humility, Patience and a good dose of optimism.

What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs who are starting out?

Be very clear on your goal and Mission. Once you’re absolutely sure, keep putting yourself out there. There will be many uncomfortable situations, embrace it as it will give you the wisdom that books will not provide. Be ready to constantly reflect and review what works and what doesn’t and change.

How do you think you can help the youth entrepreneurs at *SCAPE?l

Guidance and confidence; that we all have what it takes to achieve what we set out for. We just need to surround ourselves with people who believe and can be real.