Manager
(Singapore)

Taking the unconventional path has gifted Faisal with many defining moments in his life. They have continuously fed his inner drive to make a positive impact on peoples and systems everywhere he goes. His 5-year experience in government and healthcare have solidified his understanding that there are many sides to an issue and that communication is just as important as the information itself to influence action. Such insights have helped him bring people in organisations to a middle ground on contentious issues. Just as his name means ‘Arbitrator’, so does he choose to live by this practice. Whenever he is not making an impact, he spends his time café hopping, exercising and spending quality time with his family and friends.

Go-to-quote:

“Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” – John F Kennedy.

Senior Advisor
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

Open-minded and ever-growing, Dr Sani has had impressive and interesting experiences throughout his career. An academic-turned-strategic communications expert, Dr Sani has earned himself numerous academic accolades for his various publications, taught at universities around the world, headed strategic communications with the Ministry of Defence, and even worked closely with three Malaysian Prime Ministers in his career. His current research interests include nationhood, leadership and youth – which are reflective in his work – and you can be sure there is a wealth of knowledge to tap on with Dr Sani.

His favourite quote:

“Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass but learning to dance in the rain.”

Why? According to Dr Sani, the person who dances with you in the rain will most likely walk with you in the storm. Anyone who says sunshine brings happiness has never danced in the rain, so dance in the rain!

Associate
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

With a degree in Geography, Zakri applies a holistic worldview to his analysis, seeing the whole as more than the sum of its parts, and advocates for inclusive approaches to problem-solving. Zakri has prior experience as a consultant in the maritime industry, working on sustainable and inclusive project design.

Go to quote:

‘From the idea that the self is not given to us, I think there is only one practical consequence: we have to create ourselves as a work of art.’ – Michel Foucalt

Manager
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

Enthusiastic and passionate to learn about any health-related subject from the clinical side to economics, Khaled has always maintained the mantra of always being curious, always learning, and always adaptable. In his free time Khaled enjoys playing sports and video games to feed off his competitive spirit.

Go-to-quote:

“The master has failed more times than the beginner has even tried.” – Stephen McCranie

Senior Associate
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

Ambitious and driven, Shalini enjoys building solutions and innovating mission-oriented policies. She lives by the motto: to learn, unlearn and relearn; which is always evident in her work. Prior to joining White Rook Advisory, she has served as Special Officer (Public Policy) for a Member of Parliament, and has spent close to a decade in the political realm. She was then appointed as the National Focal Point for ASEAN Parliamentarian for Human Rights (APHR) where she reported to the board on human rights and political developments in Malaysia. Shalini read Law in Aberystwyth University and completed Malaysian Bar exams.

Her favourite way to relax:

When she is not busy working, you can find her with a book on her hand or a badminton racquet; or even both together!

Administrative Executive
(Singapore)

Shikin lives by a very strong set of beliefs and values. Sociable and decisive by nature, Shikin has worked closely with diverse groups of people of all ages and all walks of life in her previous role as an educator. She’s able to balance between work and play – and you will never have a dull moment with her.

Her favourite quote:

“Make the best of every given situation. Where people struggle to find light in the darkness, I illuminate.”

Manager
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

Easy-going, conscientious and a multitasker, Ariff believes that there’s always a way to bounce back whenever we lose our way. He gained wide experience while working in both the executive and legislative branches of the Malaysian government, serving a cabinet minister, member of Parliament and government think-tanks. When he’s not knee-deep in crafting legislation or facilitating consultations with various stakeholders, Ariff likes to chill at his favourite java joint, reading or simply catching up with friends.

Favourite go-to app: Facebook. It reflects the true reality of its users, on-the-ground.

Director (Public Affairs)
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

With energy, drive and ambition, Samuel brings with him over 40 years of extensive domestic and international experience across sectors from operations, sales and marketing in food services, telecommunication, automotive, banking industries, advertising industry to even the tire manufacturing industry. With his leadership and business management skills, Samuel has been managing a non-governmental organisation based in Malaysia with outreach works to the various communities in ASEAN since 2016. Samuel graduated with a business degree from Moscow State University of Economics, Statistics & Informatics (MESI), Moscow, Russia.

His hopes for the region in 25 years:
“I want to see governments, companies and organizations working together, led by energized young people who believe in “Service Before Self”, seeing beyond to race, colour, and religion.”

Administrative Executive
(Singapore)

An independent, diligent and free-spirited individual, Rachel seeks to flourish wherever she is. Adopting a “never stop learning” mentality, Rachel aspires to gain the best experiences she can while maintaining a work-life balance. With her proven track record in office management and administrative support, you are in safe hands with Rachel.

Her favourite movie genre:

“I enjoy watching Horror movies as I love the thrill of it!”

Partner/Managing Director
(Singapore)

“For me, achievements are segments of life’s tapestry that get sewn together over time… my first taekwondo black belt, the first trade agreement I closed… the first of anything really… it’s the adrenaline and exhilaration …the journey and heartache and then the sense of fulfilment that never gets old.”

A self-proclaimed vintage Gemini, Venetta’s approach to life is simply about balancing work that pulls her in different directions, with family, good wine and long walks. That’s why her philosophy in life is simply, “Live. Laugh. Love.”

When she’s not solving licence-to-operate issues, legislative hearings and inquiries, public health and safety crises or those requiring litigation support, she’s tirelessly absorbing and sharing new information to ensure the team is constantly three steps ahead of everyone else. She leverages on her 20-over years in policy and government experience to strategically guide the whole team, always ensuring everyone delivers to White Rook’s high standards, which are second to none. In short, if your project requires you to win on all sides, then you would want Ven in your team.

Go-to quote:

“I can do things you cannot. You can do things I cannot. Together, we can do great things” – Mother Teresa.

Manager
(Singapore)

Independent, adaptable, curious, open-minded and responsible, Alexis values different experiences and relishes the thrill of taking risks. With a Political Science Degree from the National University of Singapore, she’s worked on local and regional issues across a broad client base while previously interning with White Rook Advisory. Alexis dreams of setting up her own business in future.

Talents she wished she had:

The ability to speak all languages

Advisor
(Singapore)

With a decade of public affairs experience under her belt, Natasha is always on the lookout for opportunities to apply her expertise in translating complex issues into opportunities that bridge various stakeholder interests, to her passion for advocating on behalf of technology and international development issues. A resourceful strategist, she applies her knack for problem-solving both at the stakeholder meeting and on a bouldering wall.

Natasha most recently led a 17-strong international communications team at DJI and advised senior leadership on critical business issues including: data stewardship, anti-trust allegations, product safety, and market access challenges. Prior to DJI, she advanced a range of client reputation and advocacy initiatives at APCO Worldwide and WE Communications. An advocate of lifelong learning, she is currently completing a Master’s in International Relations at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy. Her graduate thesis investigates the imminent implications of digital sovereignty in ASEAN.

Her go-to quote:
“You have to live spherically – in many directions. Never lose your childish enthusiasm – and things will come your way.” – Federico Fellini

Consultant
(Phnom Penh, Cambodia)

If you need a practical solution, Sambath is the person to look for. Hardworking, independent and logical, Sambath has chalked up years of valuable knowledge and experience across a broad range of expertise from trade to business and finance. Over the years, he has worked with several international financial institutions such as the Asian Development Bank, World Bank and International Finance Corporation, while being deeply engaged in private sector developments. In his free time, you can find Sambath playing a game of table tennis.

His greatest achievement:

Despite having limited access to educational opportunities in rural Cambodia, he taught himself English and worked hard, eventually earning his Master’s Degree in Economics and International Development from International University of Japan.

Senior Advisor
(Manila, Philippines)

Dr. Golez brings with him nearly two decades of valuable experience in both the public and private sector, working in a myriad of fields from health, nutrition, disaster risk management and defense, making him the recipient of the much-coveted The Outstanding Young Man In the Philippines Award (2007). Dr. Golez has served in the 15th Congress of the House of Representatives where he sat on the Committees on Health, National Defense, and Transportation, among others. Prior to that, he was the Deputy Press Secretary and Deputy Presidential Spokesperson of Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. He is also the Executive Director of the Infant and Pediatric Nutrition Association of the Philippines (IPNAP), and concurrently grows his passion in the disaster risk management field as a businessman and an Adjunct Professor. When he’s not at work, he loves spending time with his family.

His favourite pastime:
He enjoys playing golf and has been able to maintain his handicap.

Regional Director
(Singapore)

“Life must be understood backwards… but lived forwards.” Søren Kierkegaard.

After an 18-year career in Singapore’s Foreign Service, Sharon plunged into the private sector armed with her extensive experience in government, some courage, and a UCLA-NUS EMBA.

Beginning with a stint in the media industry, she then joined the regional headquarters of a global consumer brand to combat illicit trade across Asia Pacific markets.

Well-positioned at the nexus of public and private sectors, Sharon is uniquely equipped to connect the two.  Her experience gives her the rare perspective needed to manage the issues and interests of commercial and government entities, and to deliver results for clients and stakeholders.

Life philosophy:
Everything we’ve experienced in life builds the person we are today; and everything we do now builds the person we are tomorrow.  Who you were is less interesting than who you are and who you will be.

Associate
(Jakarta, Indonesia)

A registered nutritionist in Indonesia, Dian’s passion and expertise have been nurtured through her various experiences in nutrition and health-related projects that aim to connect the private sector with government stakeholders and academic institutions. As an adaptable and future-oriented individual, she is always motivated to find the best way forward. Dian holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical and Public Health Nutrition from University College London, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Nutrition from Universitas Indonesia.

Her role model:
Her mother, who is a pillar of strength for Dian.

Associate
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

“Everything happens for a reason” – this is a quote that has changed Yee Jing’s outlook on life and guided her on a journey of personal growth. A hardworking and conscientious individual, her interest in the sciences and health are evident in her experiences working in research laboratories, healthcare charity organisations and in the biotechnology sector. She has also written a dissertation on anti-ageing drugs, which she considers one of her greatest achievements. Yee Jing graduated with a Master’s Degree in Medical Biotechnology and Business Management from the University of Warwick, and possesses a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Medical Sciences from the University College London.

Her favourite past-time:
Trying out new recipes!

Associate
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

Driven and inspired to make a difference, Fara leverages on her extensive background in research, government affairs and global institutions to provide critical perspectives on ASEAN foreign policy. Aside from her extracurricular work on gender and security, you can find her practising Arabic or enjoying musical theatre. Fara has a Master’s in Global Affairs, specialising in the Middle East (Social Science & Public Policy) from King’s College London, and a holds a Bachelor’s in Politics and Religion.

Her greatest achievement:
Producing a statement report on the ongoing Yemen conflict that was submitted to the United Nations 46th Session of the Human Rights Council.

Associate
(Jakarta, Indonesia)

Maria always believes in having a growth mindset and wholehearted commitment. She has gained wide experience from her internships at the ASEAN Foundation and is frequently involved in social entrepreneurship initiatives. When she’s not feeding her interest in Southeast Asian politics, Maria enjoys taking spontaneous day trips to discover new places with a cup of coffee in hand.

One of the greatest impacts on her life:
Her international upbringing and experience living in 5 countries.

Advisor
(Jakarta, Indonesia)

Logical, independent and observant, Anissa is able to draw the link between policymaking and the realities on the ground. Her background as an Adjunct Lecturer and her vast public sector experience as a policy advisor to the Indonesian House of Representatives and Parliamentary Working Groups allows her to provide critical insights and help clients navigate through the Southeast Asian landscape. In her free time, Anissa re-energises with a stay-home day and some quality time with her cats.

Her ideal getaway:
A short camping or road trip with lots of nature and no internet!

Managing Director (Acting)
(Singapore)

In Amanda’s experience, for every problem, there is a solution – though it may not always be a neat solution.

Articulate, sharp, and savvy, Amanda brings with her in-depth experience working in bilateral and multilateral settings from her time with the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including several years at the Singapore Embassy in Beijing. Both her time as a diplomat and her current stint at White Rook Advisory have given her the tools to be resilient and nimble in uncertain and fast-moving environments.

Philosophy in life:

“Unbeknownst to most, the world is completely controlled by a single pipe smoking rabbit” – Marc Johns.

Associate Regional Director
(Singapore)

If one could describe Nishita, it would be something like this – “Trustworthy. Kind. Has the patience of a saint! Respected by her clients given her vast knowledge bank and ability to break down data into simple, easy-to-understand language. She always has your back!” Nishita focuses on the food and nutrition industry, trade associations and development partners such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB). She works on projects that straddle global, regional and local issues for multinational clients operating in the Asia Pacific region.

Downtime activities:

Feeding her headspace with politically-charged crime novels or experimenting with colours to stretch the limits of her imagination.

Consultant
(Vientiane, Lao PDR)

An enthusiastic, creative and disciplined individual, Dalaphone believes in remaining adaptable in life. She brings with her almost 20 years of experience working in various sectors such as investment, health, agriculture, forestry, industry and commerce, as well as research. Her sense of humour is evident in the relationships she builds and has lent itself well to her wide networks and partnerships across the region. Dalaphone has previously worked at the International Finance Cooperation as the Lao Agroforestry Project Officer to support its implementation and management, in close collaboration with the Lao Department of Forestry. In her prior capacity, she has also served as a consultant for various organisations such as the European Forest Institute, CGIAR and the United Nations Development Programme, a national specialist for the Food and Agriculture Organisation and CIRAD, and has worked closely with USAID.

“My hobbies? I love watching movies and hanging out with my friends to exercise a sense of humour and build networking skills!”

Senior Advisor
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

A determined, dedicated and delightful individual, Kadri brings with him over 40 years of valuable experience in the public affairs and communications space, with expansive overseas and journalistic experience. His extensive knowledge in the private sector, government relations and industry issues is evident in his work in The Coca-Cola Company as the Director of Public Affairs and Communications for nearly 21 years. Prior to his work at The Coca-Cola Company, he has also managed corporate communications in various sectors after stints in both ABB Malaysia and Projek Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan (PLUS). Kadri currently serves as the President of the Malaysian Advertisers Association and the Vice-Chairman of Advertising Standards Malaysia.

His Greatest Achievement:
As an avid cyclist, one of his greatest achievements is completing a 160km bike ride.

Advisor
(Manila, Philippines)

Maes is the go-getter you’d want on your team. With years of experience in international trade negotiations and policymaking under her belt, she has built an arsenal of skills in promoting and advocating for business needs and interests. She looks out for the interests of those she advocates for by sharing global best practices with stakeholders, championing the robust enforcement of trade and investment standards, and conducting capacity building.

Associate (Administration & Operations)
(Manila, Philippines)

With 13 years of experience in the hospitality and services sector under her belt, Jonna is hardworking, dedicated, trustworthy, resourceful and highly-sensitive to the needs of those around her. Used to meeting and dealing with people from all walks of life, she admires individuals who are not only intelligent, but also sensitive to the needs of others. In her downtime, Jonna’s usually on Instagram, catching on her favourite British series or cooking up storm for her family.

Talent she wished she had: Ability to translate her ideas into art

Senior Associate
(Jakarta, Indonesia)

With a keen eye for detail and a strong analytical mind, Ananda has the ability to switch gears from science to business seamlessly. She leverages on her extensive experience in the automotive, food and beverage and renewable energy industries to craft accessible solutions for her clients in the nutrition and energy sectors. Outside the office, Ananda can be found doing fun, outdoor activities like swimming and cinematography.

Go-to app:

Twitter. To get real-time updates and to understand the workings of people’s minds and attitudes at any point in time.

Associate
(Singapore)

Passionate, enthusiastic, inquisitive, talkative and competitive, this Politics, Law and Economics graduate has made the health and nutrition, food and beverage, and sustainability sectors her stomping ground as she gears up for the fast-paced, demanding and ultimately rewarding world of management consulting. Prior to this, she gained experience in digital marketing and communications in Shanghai and Singapore. Theatre is one of her passions, giving her opportunities to spark conversations and meet new people.

“If I were stranded on an island… I would miss having conversations and the Internet!”

Associate
(Hanoi, Vietnam)

Hoa brings her experience in the digital, data analytics, public policy and government relations spheres to help partners address the unique challenges in ever-evolving, high pressure sectors such as nutrition and energy in one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies. Living in a fast-paced country known for its vibrance and resilience, Hoa is always on the go whether it’s scooting from place to place on her trusty bike, or juggling myriad requests from stakeholders who love her bubbly personality. An avid coffee-drinker, she hopes to establish her own family coffee chain with its own unique story and style one day.

Talent she wished she had:

Ambidexterity, so she can double up on her multi-tasking skills!

Associate
(Jakarta, Indonesia)

With Josephine, it’s always about value. Persistent, independent and determined to get things done, she loves to give anything a go! Leveraging on her extensive background from building Indonesia’s first deep-sea port to interning at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), she’s valued for her critical, valuable insights and problem-solving abilities. Finding balance in this fast-paced environment, Josephine enjoys painting, writing and playing musical instruments.

Talents she wished she had:

The ability to sense everyone’s reality.

Consultant
(Naypyidaw, Myanmar)

Coming from a small town named Mogok where 90% of the world’s rubies and sapphires are mined, Sai has witnessed first-hand how the abundance of natural resources could be both an advantage and a curse. Enthusiastic about bringing sustainable economic development to his own country, Sai believes that digital technology can be used to jumpstart this development process. Over the years, Sai has worked across different sectors ranging from telecommunications and economic development to education technology. In his free time, Sai enjoys listening to good music, especially those from the 1960s and 1970s.

Go-to quote:

“Do it for the passion. Do it for love. Do it for the people. Do your best.”

Consultant
(Phnom Penh, Cambodia)

Sambath’s can-do attitude belies his passion for development issues. Over more than 20 years, he has worked with diverse development partners such as USAID, FAO, the World Bank, ADB, to name a few. He has lent his drive and expertise to business start-ups, incubation and capacity-building for SMEs, private sector development across the agricultural value chain, and entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem mapping and design.

Senior Advisor
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

With over three decades of experience working with Malaysia’s Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI), Datuk Ravidran brings profound knowledge about the Asia Pacific region, having been directly involved in various ASEAN economic initiatives, as well as bilateral and regional Free Trade Agreements. He’s also served as the Economic Counsellor at the Malaysian Embassy in Thailand. An easy-going individual who loves to unwind with sporting activities, he cites his children as his greatest achievements.

Go-to quote:

“Work responsibly. Don’t think about the rewards of your actions.”

• Building and enhancing organisational resilience by being prepared for the unforeseen – assessing risks, determining business or other tangible impact, identifying contingencies and building a plan for a rainy day

• Maintaining organisational credibility and stakeholder confidence in times of uncertainty or upheavals

•  Strategising with our partners not just on what to communicate but how to communicate and who to communicate with

•  Providing our partners with the information, tools and skills to communicate right

•  Working with businesses to formulate their market access, go-to-market, and license-to-operate strategies and expanding their footprints in markets

•  A sounding board for our partners in the pragmatic formulation and implementation of public policy

•  Effecting public policy impact by building meaningful, constructive relationships with myriad stakeholders, from governments and the wider public sector to business, NGOs, and the media

•  Finding practical pathways to navigate complex public policy issues