OK, let’s talk about everyone’s favourite topic: food. (Don’t even deny it.) This sweet subject is something of a forte for Shangai-born entrepreneur Xinyi. Now based in Singapore, this young Zahara Warrior started The Guilty Way, Singapore’s very first customisable macaron ice cream sandwich aka the Macwich! Not only are they delicious, they’re totally instagram-worthy! (Foodies take note.) When you get to choose the flavours, toppings and colours of your dessert, what’s not to like? Read on as we have a chat with this ingenious entreprenuer!
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
People are often surprised that I was actually born in Shanghai. Singaporeans won’t believe me as I speak authentic Singlish. The Chinese won’t believe me either as I neither look or sound anything close to Shanghainese. Other than that, people are also usually surprised when I say I’ve started my own business.
What inspired you to start The Guilty Way?
As cliché as it sounds, I’ve always wanted to start my own business since I was young. Over the years, I have been accumulating different ideas (tried but never realised any). I was my final year of university and I really wanted to try and create something of my own before I get too old and busy. I don’t remember exactly how and why, but it was during my travels when I saw so many different desserts that I have never seen in Singapore. Also, I wanted to combine 2 of the most-loved desserts – ice cream and macarons – and create a new chemistry.
How did you come up with the name The Guilty Way (which we love btw!)?
It actually took much more effort than it seems. I am really, reallybad at naming things, and even remembering names actually. So, since I combined two sinful desserts, it’ll probably be a guilty pleasure to most people. I want everyone to embrace this guilt from having great desserts. Like, why not? Just have it The Guilty Way!
Where do you see your company in 5 years’ time?
Sad to say, we are currently not in operation after I got employed to a Fortune 500 company. I just do not have the time and energy to manage both sides. However, it is always at the back of my mind. To be honest, before I got the job, I was really trying to do The Guilty Way full-time. I was looking for physical shop spaces and all. Even now, I’m still trying to. If met with the right opportunity, I will really hope to make it a legit shop within the next 5 years. Hopefully it will become the hottest topic in town then.
As a Zahara Warrior, what advice would you give someone hoping to start her own company one day?
Never ever doubt yourself. If you believe in something, no matter how ridiculous it sounds or how people talk down the idea, if you truly believe in it, just go for it! Setting up a business is never a smooth-sailing journey, even for mine. When I first had the idea and shared it with my closest friends, they too had second thoughts on my idea. Eventually I realised it and proved to people it can be done.
What’s your most favourite combination for a macwich?
I really love our 2-flavour combination – I would pair a classic (i.e chocolate) with a fruity flavour like mango or coconut.
If you had a dinner party, who would be on your guest list?
Gigi Hadid, cos she’s so hot! Definitely will bring my party to a whole new level!
Who are your heroes?
My parents. Now that I am an adult and embracing adulthood, I finally realised how difficult it is to manage work, family, yourself, and basically your life well. Looking back at what they have done for me and for the family, I really marvel at how they have contributed. I hope I can be as great as them one day.
What is the proudest accomplishment of your life so far?
For now, it would be starting The Guilty Way and realising a dream of mine. The moment you realise you’ve fulfilled a dream, it is just so magical.
Complete this sentence: A beautiful woman is someone who …
…believes in herself.
Check out The Guilty Way and follow them on Instagram for more updates! We wish Xinyi all the best in bringing her business to the next level!
The post ZAHARA WARRIOR CHEN XINYI appeared first on Zahara.
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