This International Women’s Day, we are so proud that our very own ‘Mother Goose in the Ark(chetype)’ has been featured in Campaign Asia’s article about Female Marcomms founders in APAC paving the way forward.

Let’s keep breaking those glass ceilings! 🚀💪

(Just for posterity…) Here’s her portion of the feature!

Jing Hsu, the founder of Arkchetype Productions, reveals that she did not intend to blaze trails when she started the company but merely wanted to create good work on her terms. 

She has spent the last 11 years producing content for broadcast television commercials, social media, corporate communications, events and marketing.

While she acknowledged that bias and stereotypes exist in the industry, she feels blessed to be based in Singapore, a relatively forward-looking and progressive society. She noted that the playing field is slowly but surely being levelled out.

“In Singapore, it is probably a little more of stereotypes that exist all around on what females are like and capable of and what males are like and capable of. Also, if you are male, male privileges will be extended to you, sometimes even in the ‘bro-bro’ way,” says Hsu.

“The production industry can also traditionally be a little more of a boys club.. that said, the playing field is slowly but surely being levelled out, so there is progress!”

To support and empower women in the workplace, Hsu's company does not have a specific initiative. Instead, it focuses on supporting anyone with the skill set, know-how, and right attitude. 

Interestingly, the in-house team is all women who can handle all aspects of the production process. “Our in-house team is currently (coincidentally) made up of all ladies, and we can produce, direct, operate the camera, lights and sound, and work in post-production to edit or animate,” explains Hsu.

“Whatever role one may feel is more ‘suited’ for the boys or conventionally more of a role within the male domain, our girls can do too!”

Hsu advises aspiring female entrepreneurs in the marketing communications industry to focus on creating good work and not be discouraged by gender bias or stereotypes. She believes success will follow if you have the skill set and attitude.

“Be genderblind! Gender stereotypes or stereotypes should not come into play when working with people or prevent you from doing what you aspire to do,” says Hsu.

“That said - on a practical level, be aware of scenarios you may find yourself in that plays to your disadvantage because you are a woman - research, be prepared, and then problem-solve. Never let it get you down because the discerning can tell if you are worth your salt at the end of the day. You do you!”

Read more at: https://www.campaignasia.com/article/female-marcomms-founders-in-apac-on-paving-the-way-forward/483542