#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’s one beauty or self-care ritual you’ve learned from each other?

CO: She’s constantly reminding me to never skip SPF!

VD: “Always remove your makeup before you sleep.” She got mad at me one time when I did not wake her up after a party to remove her makeup but allowed her to sleep all the way through (laughs)

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to young women about nurturing friendships while pursuing their dreams?

CO: Never compare your journey to someone else’s, and always be genuine in celebrating each other’s wins. Friendship is a two-way street—it’s about giving as much as you take.

VD: I think it reaches a point when we run very similar businesses, and we both learnt that there are some lines that we shouldn’t cross, but being respectful and supportive at a distance. Boundaries are extremely important to me, and I usually respect them with all my girlfriends.

When you think about strength, how has your friendship helped build your inner confidence?

CO: I deeply admire Veen Dee’s resilience. No matter what challenges come her way, she faces them head-on with confidence and grace. Even when people try to bring her down, she handles it like a champion. Watching her navigate life with such tenacity has inspired me to be confident and strengthened my own self-belief.

VD: I consider myself extremely lucky to be surrounded by women who constantly validate and support me. Most of my girlfriends stood by me without having me to explain the situations, and that itself speaks louder than any actions.

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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.