#HerStory: Charis Ow and Veen Dee Tan Decode the Magic of Friendship

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.

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What is the greatest lesson a woman can learn?

CO: To truly believe in herself, recognise, and never allow external noise to define her.

VD: “Girls don’t bring other girls down” – that’s what we should learn. I have faced more criticism from women than men throughout my career, and that’s something that we should recognise is very important.

How do you support each other during challenging times?

CO: Veen Dee has been a constant presence in my life through all my highs and lows. When I was filming Club Mickey Mouse in 2017, she showed up at the shoot just to support me. When I suffered my first miscarriage, Charis was one of the first people I turned to for comfort. After my D&C surgery, she had an entire week’s worth of confinement meals delivered to my home to make sure I was well-nourished during my recovery. She even came over the very night I was discharged! To this day, we make it a point to show up for each other—whether it’s celebrating milestones or offering a shoulder to lean on. Veen Dee knows that with just one call or text, I would drop everything for her.

VD: Charis was there during the hardest phase in my life. I actually went to her house for a sleepover and cried my eyes out. She didn’t teach nor tell me what to do. She was there for me, and I think that’s the most important part, and I treasure it very much.

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Amalina Anuar is the Digital Director of Harper's Bazaar Malaysia. From covering the latest runway trends to the hottest happenings in Kuala Lumpur, she also delves deep into all things lifestyle and beauty.