In today’s rapidly evolving world, the importance of education cannot be overstated, according to digital media entrepreneur and influencer Nicholas Lim Pinn Yang.
Sharing his educational journey, Pinn Yang emphasised that regardless of the path one chooses, education plays a vital role in shaping success.
Looking back on his early academic years, he recounted about achieving 7 A’s in his (Primary School Achievement Test) or known as UPSR during primary school. However, despite this strong start, he acknowledged that his focus shifted during his secondary school years.
"I loved playing games, and that took precedence. My SPM results reflected that; I only got one A, but thankfully, I secured five credits. Without those, I wouldn't be where I am today
"I believe it's crucial not to give up. If you want to be a successful entrepreneur, you need to be a smart one, and education has played a significant role in my journey,” he said while appearing as a guest on the Sinar Daily Podcast recently.
Pinn Yang discovered a newfound passion for learning during his university years, which felt like a light bulb moment to excel in education. Although he initially struggled with subjects like accounting, his determination allowed him to overcome these challenges and ultimately succeed.
He emphasised that completing his diploma and degree profoundly changed his outlook on life.
Pinn Yang said that the educational journey did more than just deepen his knowledge; where it also equipped him with essential skills for entrepreneurship. Through his marketing studies, he developed strong public speaking abilities, overcoming stage fright and building connections that would later prove invaluable in his career.
"If you want to be a smart entrepreneur, education is crucial. Through my diploma, I completed countless assignments that taught me teamwork and delegation,” he added.
Pinn Yang highlighted a prevalent misconception among parents concerning career choices, as he frequently encounters parents expressing concern when their children aspire to become Tiktokers. He often asks them why they believe that is the best path.
He said that many parents tend to focus on success stories while overlooking the challenges faced by individuals in the same field. There are no shortcuts to success, and it demands hard work. He encouraged parents to share his story with their children, highlighting that achieving any goal is not easy and requires consistency, with education playing a vital role in life.
With a flourishing career in the digital food media space, Pinn Yang has made significant strides. Co-founding Penang Foodie in 2016, he built a platform that reaches over 12 million people monthly.
In 2018, he co-founded Good Foodie Media and KL Foodie, which alone boasts 30 million social media followers and 1 million monthly website visitors. His expansion into Bangkok with Bangkok Foodie in 2019 solidified his status in the industry.
Pinn Yang was recently named TikTok Shop Creator of the Year, gaining recognition for his innovative and viral content that marries entertainment with e-commerce. His approach often features engaging social experiments and interactions with strangers, showcasing how creativity can drive success in today’s digital landscape.
Pinn Yang’s journey exemplifies the integral role of education in shaping one's path, regardless of the chosen career. He advocates for a balanced perspective on success, urging both parents and aspiring professionals to value education as a foundational element for achieving their dreams.