In Singapore, women-founded companies have been gaining significant traction, reflecting a broader trend of women leaders making their mark across various industries. This rise in prominence is particularly notable in sectors like early childhood education, where women entrepreneurs are pioneering innovative solutions and initiatives. One such trailblazer is Su Fen Cheong, Founder of Preschool Market, who has dedicated herself to addressing the unique challenges and needs within the early childhood sector. With a deep-rooted passion for this field, Su Fen embarked on a journey to establish Preschool Market, an initiative aimed at engaging the early childhood community through meaningful projects.

Su Fen's journey to entrepreneurship was marked by diverse experiences, including stints in a large multinational corporation and the civil service. Despite initial challenges, including limited revenue during the early stages, Su Fen's perseverance and vision have propelled Preschool Market to prominence within the sector. Today, Preschool Market is a well-known entity, frequently sought after by educators for assistance and problem-solving support. Su Fen's journey exemplifies the growing influence of women leaders in Singapore's entrepreneurial landscape, particularly in sectors like early childhood education, where their innovative solutions are shaping the future of education and community engagement. Let’s dive into this one on one interaction to know more.

Could you share insights into the expertise you've cultivated as an educator specializing in early childhood education?

In my role, I've focused on several crucial areas vital for nurturing the development of young children. Central to my approach is the emphasis on parent and community engagement, recognizing their indispensable role in a child's educational journey. I employ effective communication strategies and collaborative methods to actively involve parents in their children's learning experiences.

Furthermore, sustainability education has been a significant aspect of my work. Through initiatives like Kindred Studio, we establish hubs where corporates donate recyclables, which educators then utilize to create learning materials for children, fostering environmental consciousness from a young age.

My exploration of early years technology has equipped me with the skills to seamlessly integrate digital tools into the classroom, enriching the learning process and ensuring education is both interactive and accessible. Additionally, I've dedicated time to curriculum development, crafting engaging and developmentally appropriate activities tailored to the diverse needs of young learners. These activities aim to stimulate cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth.

These areas of expertise not only define my approach as an educator but also fuel my passion for making a tangible difference in the realm of early childhood education.

What led you to establish Preschool Market? Tell us about the underlying idea behind the venture and its key areas of specialization.

The inception of Preschool Market was born from a profound dedication to early childhood education and a vision to address its evolving needs. Understanding the pivotal role of quality early education, I aimed to establish an organization not only providing educational services but also serving as an innovation hub. The core idea is to unite educators, parents, and communities through tailored services and initiatives. Specializing in innovative curriculum development, educational technology integration, sustainability education, and fostering community engagement, Preschool Market strives to create a comprehensive learning environment. Our mission is to drive positive change in early childhood education, ensuring every child accesses high-quality educational opportunities.

What are the key responsibilities you shoulder as the Founder of Preschool Market?

In my capacity as the Founder of Preschool Market, I bear significant responsibilities spanning strategic direction and operational oversight. Primarily, I am tasked with shaping and executing the organization's strategic vision, ensuring it aligns with our mission and objectives, while also identifying avenues for growth and fostering partnerships. Additionally, I am responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of educational programs that are innovative and responsive to the sector's needs. Fundraising and financial management are crucial aspects of my role, as I work to secure resources to sustain and expand our initiatives. Furthermore, I lead team development efforts, cultivating a positive work environment and ensuring alignment with our mission among staff.

Could you share more about your interest in edtech and sustainability and how you combine them to enhance early education?

My fascination with educational technology (edtech) and sustainability originates from a profound belief in utilizing innovation and environmental responsibility to enrich early childhood education. Edtech presents transformative avenues to revolutionize learning, rendering it more engaging, accessible, and tailored to individual needs. I'm particularly intrigued by its potential to accommodate diverse learning styles, provide personalized assistance, and cultivate critical thinking and creativity in young minds. Additionally, my dedication to sustainability reflects a commitment to instilling environmental consciousness in children early on and nurturing a sense of stewardship towards our planet.

Furthermore, I seamlessly integrate sustainability principles into curriculum development, ensuring that educational materials and activities not only educate but also advocate for environmental awareness, conservation, and responsible citizenship.

Throw light on the most important professional milestone you have achieved throughout your professional journey. What has your success mantra been over the years?

One of the most significant milestones in my professional journey occurred when we received the 'Champions of Good' award from the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre in 2022. This recognition holds great honor for our company. It symbolizes not only our dedication to social responsibility but also the tangible impact and contributions we've made to the community through our efforts at Preschool Market.

My success mantra over the years has been encapsulated in the guiding principle 'Every Child Matters.' This philosophy drives our focus on providing opportunities and quality education for every child. Empowering educators is also central to our mission, as we believe that well-supported and motivated teachers are key to delivering quality education. Our strong community partnerships with educators, parents, and local organizations create a robust support system for every child's development. By adhering to continuous improvement and best practices, we stay at the forefront of educational innovation, ensuring our preschool remains a place where every child truly matters.

Su Fen Cheong, Founder, Preschool Market

Su Fen Cheong is the founder of Preschool Market, dedicated to enhancing early childhood education through innovative programs and community engagement. Her work emphasizes sustainability, educational technology, and fostering social responsibility among young learners, driving positive change in the sector.