Good afternoon
Frankly speaking, this is my first time delivering a speech in front of a group audience. This is very intense as I am also the first valedictorian for the day. Nonetheless, I would like to thank SIPMM for giving me this opportunity to speak. As I had once mentioned to Professor Poh when we were asked to present a 3-minute elevator pitch, ‘’let’s get this over and done with’’.
I am not decorated with fancy certificates, and my journey with SIPMM is only at the beginning. I have worked so hard to be where I am today. 2 years ago, I was hired by ASM Front End as a global trade compliance analyst. My first task was to complete a project by leveraging the US-SG FTAs for potential duty savings. Upon completion, the company managed to achieve more than $100k of cost savings.
Completing the project gave me a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. It also got me thinking about what the next step for my career would be. As everyone is aware, education is very important in Singapore. The hiring process by employers is strictly based on your education level. The minimum qualification you require is at least a diploma. A simple “Thank you” is not enough to express how grateful I am when I was hired by Mei Li, the hiring manager who hired me to be part of her team.
Mei Li recognized my potential and believed in me, coaching and equipping me with the knowledge of trade compliance every day. Although she has since moved back to the US to work with Amazon, she is always there to listen to me and provide me with advice whenever I needed. I have also grown be more interested in international trade supply chain. Currently specializing in major expects of trade compliance, I am looking for a wider exposure so that I can become a manager in 5 years’ time. In addition, I also want to take this opportunity to catch up on my studies.
Therefore, I decided to enroll in the SIPMM Executive Certificate course. From the two months of lessons, I deduced that information and resources are widely available within one’s fingertips. One does not need to be an expert at something. With enthusiasm and interest, knowledge is easily acquired. Prof Poh has always been the guiding voice in coaching and motivating every one of us in class. I remember, Prof had once mentioned, it is not all about the education; one needs to have the proper skillset in order to maximize the education. Every lesson, Prof Poh does not fail to share every piece of information that we ought to know. I am eternally grateful for the knowledge and wisdom he has imparted us, and I hope I can do the same in the near future.
To be receiving my transcript with high distinction and giving this speech is indeed a great milestone. This achievement is very personal although it is small.
I have gone through a fair bit in life and learnt that although life stalls you back due to unforeseen circumstances, it is never too late for you to get back on your feet and continue to revive your goals. I wanted to be the cream of the crop and also set a good example for my son, Anaqi Rahimi. This is why I have always emphasized strongly on studying hard because at the end of day, I will always want him to be more successful than me.
To my loved ones, my dearest family and friends, I would like to thank you for the endless support you have given me and the faith you have in me.
With that, Congratulations to all the students of SIPMM and may this journey lead you to greater achievements for the future.
Thank you.
