SEM - kireikoii

Published on
April 19, 2022 at 10:07:58 AM PDT April 19, 2022 at 10:07:58 AM PDTth, April 19, 2022 at 10:07:58 AM PDT

Creating what you like attracts the right people



What is your business about?

I create gifts that are perfectly curated for you and your loved ones.


What made you decide to start your business? When did you start?

I've always wanted to explore art but since my family's financial situation wasn't great, it was not possible for me to explore other choices outside of academics. I worked really hard in achieving my grades and working part-time on the side so that I can afford to explore my creative side.


During Circuit Breaker in 2020, I finally had the time and opportunity to do so. I ordered all my items online and started up my Instagram page. The rest is history.


I continued the business because it allows me to relax, explore and create. It also enables me to contribute to my family's financial situation so I stopped receiving any pocket money from my parents and I continue to pay for my own bills. As a result, my siblings get more budget to explore their creative side and seeing them happy makes me happy.



Image credit: @kireikoii (Instagram)


Why did you choose to take part in SEM?

One of my dreams is to have my items placed in a retail store and hopefully one day, my own DIY and product store! It is honestly quite an intimidating goal and I never thought I'd progress out of Instagram and website sales.


Through hard work and tons of research, I've placed my items in small, local studios and will continue to work my way up! The SEM programme in NUS is an amazing next step for me and I get to work with a passionate and patient
CO-OP team. There's no reason to say no!


What are some of the challenges you face as a student entrepreneur?

The study-work balance is quite scary sometimes, especially during examination week or when I have tight deadlines for assignments. Thankfully, this business is my stress reliever so I always make time for it as much as I can. After I handle my business matters, I feel refreshed and energized!


What is one tip that has helped you in juggling your responsibilities as a student and entrepreneur well?

Create what you like, not what will sell. If you create what you like, it relieves your stress and you'll be proud of what you're able to achieve. If you constantly think about what will sell, your business becomes profit-driven. Being profit-driven is beneficial but it can also be stressful and competitive.


When you create what you like, people naturally gravitate towards your page.


What motivates you and keeps you going in your business?

​Myself. My friends and family do help a ton and they give me more support than I can ever ask for. However, what really keeps me going is me. Even with the support given, sometimes it just feels easier to give up - especially when people copy my designs or when customers try to haggle/get things for free. I have to remind myself and reassure myself that my art is unique and it is appreciated.




Angel is a Year 2 undergraduate student from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Her works are currently on sale at NUS Co-op@Central Forum under the Student Entrepreneur’s Market (SEM) programme.


Instagram: @kireikoii