Singapore, renowned for its economic prowess and iconic skyline, holds a lesser-known reality beneath its gleaming facades. Recent studies shed light on a notable prevalence of shyness and social anxiety, especially among its female population. Those who have experienced living here would sense the palpable, deeply ingrained collectivistic values of Asian culture, which prioritise cohesion within the group over individual assertiveness.
The societal expectation to conform often nudges women towards blending in rather than standing out, potentially hindering their personal development and preventing them from embracing their ambitions.
This was no different for Rina, who suppressed her entrepreneurial instincts to pursue a traditionally ‘safer’ and more conventional career path. Growing up in a strict household, Rina had been shy and quiet. Following her sister into teaching felt like the path of least resistance and familial objection. While she enjoyed a successful career in teaching, a constant relentlessness gnawed at her, yearning for something more.
After a few years of internal conflict, her aspirations took over her desire to stay in her comfort zone. Sick of feeling stuck, Rina finally decided to take a leap of faith. But this was no easy feat. Leaving behind the security of her teaching career meant confronting years of ingrained expectations and facing the murmurs of doubt from those who loved her. But with a heart brimming with determination and a flicker of courage, Rina took a leap of faith and ventured into the unknown world of entrepreneurship.
She channeled her now-unbounded creative energy into building her own brand, Rina Lee Jewellery, to embody her journey of personal growth alongside her emotions and other sentiments which resonated with her. This culminated in a unique collection of jewelry transcending the tangibility of aesthetics. The accessories also embody a subtle rebellion, a quiet encouragement for women to embrace their individuality and inner strength. Each design is meticulously crafted, not just to adorn the body but to empower the spirit through reminders of self-love, strength and courage.
Each design is deeply personal to Rina, as it reflects her personal journey towards self-worth and fulfillment – seeking to inspire and resonate with other individuals. Crafted with high-quality materials like 18K gold vermeil and sterling silver, many pieces are meaningfully embellished with a variety of gemstones and crystals. From the calming energy of amethyst to the confidence-boosting properties of citrine, each stone is meticulously chosen to complement the wearer’s unique personality and aspirations.
It is Rina’s personal belief that everybody seeks to curate pieces that complement and physically embody their values and hopes, helping them to build up a unique sense of identity and confidence. By adorning themselves with Rina Lee Jewellery, women don’t just accessorise, they make a statement about self-belief and the courage to pursue their passions. The brand celebrates the quiet strength that resides within every woman, encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones and rewrite their narratives.
In a world where conformity often reigns supreme, Rina’s journey reminds us that true liberation lies in embracing our uniqueness and daring to shine brightly. Let her story serve as a testament to the transformative power of courage and self-discovery—a journey worth embarking on, no matter the obstacles we may face.
Images: Rina Lee Jewellery
