Member in the Spotlight: Fong Ong

"Creativity is not linear, it’s not your typical corporate job where you stare at a screen or sit in a room all day. In fact, I find that quite damaging." Early on in life, Fong Ong was pushed to pursue a structured career in the Maths or Sciences, but her inner creative resisted. Defying expectations, Fong left her home in Sydney for first London and then Amsterdam to live life as a Designer and creative Art Director. With a hard working and cheerful attitude, our Member in the Spotlight this week has never been happier combining her hobbies and career into a holistic lifestyle.

Draw a self portrait...

How did you get started as a Creative Art Director & Designer?

I started off quite conflicted as I was pushed toward the maths and science direction. Unfortunately those things weren’t for me and I realised I am a lot more of a lateral thinker and creativity was where I found myself thriving and being the happiest. It was difficult culturally because of certain expectations, but I am thankful that nowadays I have found acceptance in myself and with the people close to me.

What is the boldest move you've ever made?

Leaving Sydney and moving to London then Amsterdam. I was absolutely bricking it because I’m such a creature of habit, but it led me to learn so many things about myself and the world. So needless to say, it was my biggest / scariest / best / life changing move ever!

What professional skill have you gained that you use the most?

After a few years of living abroad, I can comfortably say I’ve adapted a social and professional skill of talking. Talking to new people and presenting my creative thoughts is now one of my favourite skills. 15 year old me would be so proud!

Any advice for people overcoming a creative block?

Close the laptop, grab a notebook and go somewhere you’ve never been before.

What do you do outside of work that gets your creative juices flowing?

Creative work requires a creative lifestyle. Creativity is not linear, it’s not your typical corporate job where you stare at a screen or sit in a room all day. In fact, I find that quite damaging. The creative mind requires breathing – whether it’s exploring, talking to strangers or staring out of a train window etc. When my mind is running free, I can truly get my creative juices flowing. Some of my best creative ideas came at some of the most random times - in the shower, cooking, on the side of a cliff etc.

What is your current favourite website/app and why?

Google. I’m the most curiousest and nosiest person you’ll ever meet, which makes Google absolutely perfect! Google is also the gateway to everything, I think this is how we should treat our minds with the world around us.

What music will we find on your playlist?

All types of jazz and lo-fi tunes.