Anthony Tan believes that education is the most empowering force in the world

“Education is the most empowering force in the world. It creates knowledge, builds confidence, and breaks down barriers to opportunity.”, says Anthony Tan

Anthony Tan is a director of East Asia Research. East Asia Research (EAR) is established in Singapore to enhance productivity and reduce poverty in Asia. EAR strives to make continuous efforts to transform people’s lives in Asia through education, the application of research, and innovative ideas. This will be achieved through the dissemination of knowledge from Asia.

Continue reading to find out more about Anthony Tan.

Q: Tell us a little bit more about your journey.

A: My parents had a strong belief in the value of education, along with the realisation that hard work and sacrifice may be needed to achieve it. I was encouraged to work hard to do well in school. I am now a lifelong learner Conversational hypnotherapy and acting are my current interests.

Q: Let’s talk about your current occupation or business. What do you do?

A: In 2015 I started my own academic conference company, East Asia Research, in Singapore. East Asia Research works with universities to organise academic conferences in Singapore. We work with publishers to print the scientific papers presented at the conference. East Asia Research organises four conferences annually. More details are available here.

Q: How did you come up with this concept and carry it out?

A: I am good at organising Social Sciences conferences.

Q: What about your line of work excites you the most?

A: This is a traditional industry that is being disrupted by new technology. Information technology is changing how information is being exchanged. In the past, information about a conference is sent through word of the mouth or mailers. These days, social media marketing is more common. The industry is pushing over the technology tipping point and it is exciting.

Q: What has been your most challenging obstacle, and how did you overcome it?

A: It is difficult to organize an in-person conference with the COVID-19 travel restrictions. We are organising hybrid conferences in December since we are expecting just partial recovery to the industry.

Q: What are some of the most crucial aspects of establishing a successful company?

A: Money. An amply financed company can afford to make mistakes and lose more money before going bust. It buys you time and opportunities.

Q: What advice do you have for aspiring and first-time entrepreneurs?

A: If you are gung-ho and have good financials, you are suitable for entrepreneurship.

You can reach Anthony Tan on LinkedIn.