Growing up, Samantha Peihua Chen was raised by a trifecta of strong women: her mother, grandmother and aunt. They came from little money, but “it was a household that encouraged strong opinions, dreaming big, being yourself and, above all, hard work”, she says, adding that her formative years at Paya Lebar Methodist Girls’ School further cemented the belief that regardless of gender, “anything you put your heart into, you can do with hard work”.
It is with this persevering mindset—and pure grit—that Chen has navigated the male‑dominated global sports marketing industry, where she is executive vice president of partnerships and strategic development for Asia‑Pacific (Apac) at CAA Sports, part of entertainment and sports agency Creative Artists Agency. Having been in the industry for more than 10 years, she has had her fair share of challenges.
“The global sports marketing industry, even in Apac, is still dominated by white males who tend to come from a higher socioeconomic background,” she says, adding that in an industry dominated by a certain background culture typically results in a gap in seeing the full picture—in this case, not being able to fully understand what is required by an Asian client. Despite their best intentions, Chen says that this “unwitting myopia” typically results in the minorities having to work even harder to break through unfair stereotypes to climb up the corporate ladder.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Rohit Jha
Using lasers and a proprietary shoebox-sized device, this technopreneur’s company Transcelestial seeks to increase connectivity speeds and access around the globe—and soon, beyond it
Fashioning Heritage
Aqilah Zailan founded Studio Gypsied to honour her Javanese heritage and ancestral narratives, reimagining batik into everyday designs
Sound System
Through music and mentoring, ArtSee bridges cultural and educational gaps, nurturing marginalised youth and preserving heritage for future generations. Co-founder Nabillah Jalal reflects on its impact and vision to extend its reach to more communities
Island in the Sun
With its beachfront location and proximity to Singapore, and access to international schools and healthcare infrastructure, Batu Ferringhi makes for an ideal investment destination. Sean Lim of NWD Holdings tells us about the Singapore-based investment group's upcoming hospitality development in Penang
On the Flower Trail
Twenty years after their first collaboration, Louis Vuitton and renowned Japanese artist Takashi Murakami reunite for a vibrant re-edition collection, blending art and fashion in a bold celebration of creativity and craftsmanship
Toast to the New Year
Fashion designer Shuting Qiu brings her vibrant colour palette and intricate designs to Hennessy's Chinese New Year 2025 exclusive releases, which will be showcased at the Crafted, by Hennessy travelling exhibition in Ion Orchard.
To the Moon and Back
Be captivated by the moonphase displays on these A Lange & Söhne timepieces—the ideal companions for cherished moments with loved ones this season
Dreamy Hues
The innovative colour-enhancing and ultra-moisturising Dior Addict Lip Glow now comes in 20 vivid and exciting shades
A Call for Connection
Virtuoso pianist and Rolex Testimonee Hélène Grimaud masterfully bridges the worlds of art and advocacy, using her evocative performances and commitment to conservation to inspire a deeper connection between humanity and the natural world
Eastern Influence
Pascale Lepeu, director of the Cartier Collection, reflects on Cartier's latest exhibition, Cartier, the Power of Magic