2021T2 VirtualTSM/Participant Information/Damian Er Zhong Ying

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About Damian

SMU email: damian.er.2017@sis.smu.edu.sg
Facebook/Linkedin: LinkedIn
Academic Year: 4
Degree: Information Systems (Business Analytics)
2nd Major: NIL

Why Virtual TSM?

• What motivates you to join TSM?
  Starting my own start-up has always been a life-long goal of mine and this course will provide the perfect platform to bring concepts to life. I believe that I lack the global exposure to start an overseas venture, having spent the majority of my life in Singapore. Virtual TSM will allow me to venture beyond my comfort zone and gain a deeper understanding of the different booming startup hubs around the globe. Throughout my internships, I have been exposed to various local business operations across SEA and it has piqued my interest in navigating the complex legal and regulatory environment that different business model entails, especially in foreign environments where you are unfamiliar of the nuances. I look forward to learning from fellow like-minded individuals in this course and bringing my ideas to life!
  

• Where would you like to visit virtually?
  Anywhere beyond SEA! I believe that each country brings about its own challenges in operating a business and it will be wonderful to pick up the nuances of any country.

Starting a business

• What types of business interest you?
  Fintech. Technology-based business that aims to disrupt the traditional financial services sector. Startups operating in the Fintech space which I follow closely include TransferWise, Rapyd & Afterpay. These innovative startups challenge the norm of traditional systems through the use of technology, while utilising unique business models that allows them to capture sizeable market share and profitable unit economics. Closer to home, I also keep a close eye on local startups like CardUp & InstaReM. Their growth story has been wonderful and sets a precedent for local entrepreneurs in this space.
  

• What plan do you have in starting a business?
  I have great interest in starting my own startup in the Payments/Fintech space. There are many gaps within the current systems, which allows for great opportunities to operate a technology-based business in this field to disrupt the industry. Through this course, I look forward to picking up valuable knowledge and advice in successfully bringing my concept to life.

Past Experiences (optional)

Past Internship Experiences

• Wholesale Payments & Corporate Banking Summer Analyst at J.P. Morgan
  
• Special Projects (GrabPay Consumer Business) Intern at Grab
  
• Business Analytics Intern at American Express
  
• E-Business Intern at Citibank
  

CCAs

• EYE Investment Club, Research Director
• The Mentoring Circle, Mentor

What keeps you ticking?

• An investment in knowledge pays the best interest. Always interested in learning new things and becoming a better me!