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By Gerrie Beh
Jun 21, 2024
Cover Tatler Malaysia’s managing director Gerrie Beh opens up about the woman who inspired her fearless ambition and resilient work ethic, her mother (pictured left) (Photos: Gerrie Beh and Tatler Malaysia)
Tatler Malaysia’s managing director Gerrie Beh opens up about the woman who inspired her fearless ambition and resilient work ethic, her mother (pictured left) (Photos: Gerrie Beh and Tatler Malaysia)
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Tatler Malaysia’s managing director Gerrie Beh opens up about her mother, the woman who inspired her fearless ambition and resilient work ethic
In the tapestry of life, ambition weaves a thread of determination, resilience, and unwavering courage. My journey is a testament to this as I navigated the tumultuous waters of career growth and motherhood as a single woman.
Divorced at 32, I made it my mission to work hard and excel in my career to be able to provide for my daughter on my own. At the tender age of 35, I found myself entrusted with the leadership of an international advertising agency—a position that few believed a single mother could attain.
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Breaking through the glass ceiling as the first woman and Asian to helm the Malaysian office was a defining moment in my career, a moment that underscored the importance of perseverance and self-belief in the face of adversity.
The path to success was strewn with obstacles that tested my resilience and determination. Balancing the demands of a high-profile career with the responsibilities of raising a child was a formidable challenge—one that required me to dig deep and draw upon the wellspring of inner strength that lay within.
Amidst the chaos and cacophony of daily life, my mother emerged as a beacon of unwavering support and unconditional love. Her presence was not just a source of solace but a reminder that no dream is too audacious and no goal too lofty when nurtured by a supportive network of individuals who believe in your potential.
To other single women out there now who harbour ambitious goals and boundless dreams, I offer this advice gleaned from my journey:
Believe in yourself
The first step towards achieving your goals is to believe in your capabilities and potential. Self-belief is the cornerstone of ambition, the fuel that propels you forward in the face of doubt and adversity.
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Build a strong support system
Surround yourself with individuals who uplift, encourage, and support your ambitions. Whether it’s family, friends, mentors, or peers, a strong support system can provide the foundation upon which you can build your dreams.
Embrace resilience
Resilience is not just the ability to bounce back from setbacks but the courage to persevere in the face of challenges. Embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth, learning, and self-discovery.
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Prioritise self-care
As you pursue your ambitions, remember to prioritise self-care and well-being. Nurture your physical, emotional, and mental health, for a healthy mind and body are essential for sustained success.
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Celebrate your achievements
Take pride in your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Celebrate your victories, no matter how incremental, as they are the stepping stones towards greater success.
Today, older, remarried, and now blessed with two beautiful daughters, a supportive husband, and, of course, my loving mother, I navigate each day with unwavering determination; I am reminded of the mantra that fuels my ambition: always reach for the stars, for if it reaches the sky, that too is good. Keep reaching, keep striving, and never cease in your pursuit of greatness.
In the immortal words of Michelle Yeoh at the Oscars, “Ladies, don’t let anyone tell you you are ever past your prime. Never give up.” Let these words be a beacon of inspiration for every single woman with a dream, every individual with ambition in their heart, and every soul who refuses to be bound by limitations.
Let us continue to break barriers, shatter stereotypes, and pave the way for a future where ambition knows no gender, age, or circ*mstance—a future where every dream is within reach, and every obstacle is a stepping stone to greatness.
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Gerrie Beh
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Family Motherhood TAIC Single Parent
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