Veen Dee Tan and Charis Ow
Surrounded in a realm that emphasises competition and individual achievement, the power of female friendships lies in their ability to create strong connections. Regardless of the years spent together or the shared memories, it is the bonds that uplift, empower, and inspire that are truly cherished. The bubble you’ve created resembles a secret sanctuary where triumphs, struggles, and dreams come to life. In the fast-paced whirlwind of life, one element remains steadfastly invaluable: friendship. It’s not about the destination; it’s about the journey, and there’s no better way to navigate it than with your companion by your side. This is the bond shared between two talented and resilient women, Charis Ow and Veen Dee Tan.
Just like the Sublimic Adenovital Scalp Power Shot, their friendship has grown alongside each other. The innovative hair care line regains strength from the core and reveals your inner radiance. With the right ingredients, it becomes a key factor in embracing the different seasons of life and appreciating the evolution of their bond.
When we spoke to Charis about the importance of friendship, she replied, “Friendship is invaluable because having a strong support system is essential in life. As the saying goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Navigating life alongside friends who accept you for who you are and support you unconditionally is a true blessing.”
“So much has changed over the past decade—marriage, motherhood, and our careers. But our friendship has grown alongside us.” Charis continued.
Through every hurdle and hardship, they’ve found that no matter where they are in life, it’s their friendship that stays constant. Charis recalled her first meeting with Veen Dee. “She was effortlessly fashionable. And I’ve always admired her work ethic–she is incredibly hardworking. Yet, she never fails to make time for the people who matter most to her.”
Veen Dee added, “My initial impression of Charis was that she has a wonderfully exuberant personality, and I love it. I couldn’t help but beam in her presence.”
Honesty, kindness, and the ability to bring out the best in each other are essential for any lasting relationship. Charis emphasised that, in addition to these three qualities, unconditional love, the capacity to forgive and let go, and the practice of celebrating each other’s successes without comparison are also the final ingredients to complete the recipe for a strong and enduring friendship.
As we explore the bond that defines their friendship, we delve deep into their journey from living together to navigating motherhood and successful careers today.
What’s your favourite memory together?
Charis Ow: It’s hard to pick just one! Our all-expenses-paid trip to San Francisco and Los Angeles holds a special place in my heart, but so does that random lazy Sunday afternoon nap we took together on our couch when we lived under the same roof. We’ve shared so many wonderful memories!
Veen Dee: I have to say the same with Charis. It was the time we fell asleep on the couch on a lazy Sunday afternoon, just being very comfortable in each other’s presence. It was simple but content.
Is there anything you would like to change about the dynamic of your friendship?
VD: I’d love to spend more time with Charis
CO: Now that we’re both mothers, it’s harder to carve out time together, but I truly appreciate how we’ve embraced the beauty of a low-maintenance friendship.
What’s the best piece of self-care advice you’ve been given?
CO: “Happy mommy = happy baby.” In the early days of motherhood, it’s so easy to lose yourself in the never-ending cycle of feeding, pumping, diaper changes, cleaning, and sleep deprivation. Even with a hands-on husband, I found myself constantly “doing.” But the moment I accepted that I couldn’t do it all alone and allowed myself to rely on my support system, everything changed.
VD: Be honest with your feelings, and do not overshare. Charis is very trusting of people and tends to be generous with information, and that might end up in unfortunate situations. (laughs)
As two successful career women in Malaysia, can you share the most interesting story from when you started your business?
CO: My entire career has been an adventure! I started as a content creator back in 2012 when it wasn’t even considered a “real job.” That led to hosting a children’s TV show (aired across FIVE countries), becoming a musical artist, launching a clothing brand, and now, stepping into the role of becoming a certified holistic sleep consultant to help families get the rest they deserve. Every twist and turn has been an interesting and exciting chapter in my journey.
VD: I faced rejection three times when trying to set up a small kiosk in a departmental store, and it really hurt my confidence. I cried a lot and considered giving up. Fast forward to today, I now have a standalone shop in one of the most sought-after malls in Kuala Lumpur.
What has been the biggest obstacle you’ve had to overcome as a female entrepreneur?
VD: “Women are too emotional to run businesses.” I think that’s the perception that is implied by most female entrepreneurs. The thing is, having emotions is not entirely a bad thing. It shows strength and empathy and that women are capable of compartmentalising. So I am very careful with how I react to rumours, and I spend most of my time championing women in every given opportunity to shed light on what women are capable of doing.
