Selena's Journey: From Studying Abroad to Entrepreneurship in Melbourne
This article recounts Selena's experiences, from her early days as an international student in Australia to her current role as a successful businesswoman in Melbourne. It details her family's immigration journey and the challenges and rewards of starting a business in a new country.
Early Life and Education in Australia
Selena came to Australia from Guangzhou, China, at the age of 13 to study abroad. While her father was initially hesitant, her mother supported her desire for independence and adventure. Selena recounts, "I just wanted to go abroad... I wanted to go to a place without my parents."
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She initially wanted to go to England but chose Australia due to the shorter distance and minimal time difference, easing her parents' concerns.
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She attended high school in Australia and initially lived with a Polish family who treated her like their own daughter, providing a supportive and enriching experience.
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She studied engineering but later pursued finance and education in university.
Family Immigration and Business Ventures
Selena's family later immigrated to Australia, motivated by her brother's encouragement and a desire to provide their children with more opportunities. Her mother spearheaded the immigration process, obtaining a 188 visa, which allowed them to reside and invest in Australia.
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The 188 visa also provided the benefit of free education for Selena and her brother, saving them significant tuition fees.
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Selena's parents, experienced in the restaurant industry in China, decided to start a business in Melbourne, focusing on trade and eventually opening restaurants.
Building a Restaurant Empire
After graduating, Selena initially considered a career in education but ultimately decided to join her family's business. She found that her family needed her more in a overseas country like Australia. From opening 6 stores in the first year to being the current business women.
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Her family currently owns six stores, including a Japanese restaurant brand, caramelized fish and a cake shop.
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The first store was a self-made Japanese brand. Selena had the intention of making it a local customer experience.
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Selena's role involves helping with documentation, organizing, and assisting with the operational aspects of the business.
Challenges and Differences in the Australian Restaurant Industry
Selena highlights the differences between running a restaurant in China versus Australia. The labor cost and employee mindset are very different here in Australia.
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Australian employees tend to be more direct and focused on their specific roles, whereas Chinese employees may take on more responsibilities.
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She noted that managing the business requires more hands-on involvement, as the owners need to address even minor issues, like water leaks.
Unexpected Support and Community
Selena recounts a particularly challenging experience when a fire broke out in one of their restaurants. Surprisingly, the local authorities provided exceptional support and facilitated their reopening the very next day. She said that they found unexpected support because of a barbecue oven.
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Firefighters and food safety inspectors worked overtime to ensure the restaurant could resume operations.
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She stated, "I suddenly felt that doing business here feels different," contrasting it with experiences her father had in China.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Selena emphasizes the importance of taking action and embracing innovation for young entrepreneurs.
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"The biggest thing that young people lack is the ability to take action. If you have the ability to take action, you will have your reward."
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She encourages them to bring out the innovation of the young generation and make a difference.
Adelaide vs. Melbourne: A Matter of Perspective
Selena shares her contrasting experiences living in Adelaide and Melbourne.
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She describes Adelaide as feeling like home, a small, close-knit community.
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In contrast, Melbourne felt lonely and overwhelming initially due to its size and bustling environment.
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However, after several years, Selena has grown to appreciate Melbourne's opportunities and consider it her home.
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