Talofa, kia ora, ni hao, aloha, bula, konnichi wa, hola, namaste and greetings everybody!

My name is Andrew Tui and I am based in Aotearoa, New Zealand.  It would be impossible for me to introduce myself through one lens, so here is a summary of me using multi-coloured lenses… coffee and a career chatter, humanitarian, movie buff, ukulele jammer, diversity champion, ENFJ, amateur tennis player, X-Men geek, lover of life.  Naturally this list is not exhaustive but you get the gist of the type of person I am.

I am of Samoan-Chinese descent and grew up in Auckland, New Zealand.  I currently work as a career practitioner at a tertiary institution and enjoy supporting students to succeed.  I did not have many clear role models as a child but had parents who encouraged me to work hard and create an amazing future for myself and my family.

I am forever grateful for the values they instilled, especially around the concepts of being humble and supporting others.  Now 34 years of age, I cherish the time I spend with my family, especially Sunday dinner where mum makes chop suey, taro, chicken curry, raw fish and her famous pineapple pie.

It occurred to me I have been in the ‘real world’ (full time employment) since 2003.  Eeeep!  I suppose time flies when you’re having fun, and paying bills.  I remember having a clothing and CD budget when I was in my early 20s.  This has well and truly gone now!

I have learnt so much from being in the workforce, but also in other aspects of my career including voluntary work, hobbies, family time, and down time.  I constantly seek to grow and challenge myself and have many new ventures on the horizon.

I actually started this blog several years ago and loved writing thoughtful insights on the world of work, but over time I found I was putting pressure on myself to write sophisticated content.  The procrastination grew and the postings became fewer.

I now come back to blogging with a refreshed attitude and a desire to write more from the heart.  I fundamentally enjoy the power of reflection and observation and write better when I do not overthink things, so it is my hope that my writing will be natural and ultimately be engaging for you.

So what is the general essence of this renewed blog you ask??  Hmmm, let me try giving a concise response…

1. Thoughtful observations on our careers.  By this, I do NOT mean only talking about paid work.  Our careers are all encompassing and includes the raft of activities, events, influences and values that shape who we are.
2. Making observations on topical issues.
3. Sharing anecdotes and stories of my own career journey.
4. Revering the power of coffee.

Yes, the list may change but that is plenty to start with.

New year = new insights.

For the digital media inclined, here are my other channels:

LinkedIn:  https://nz.linkedin.com/in/andrewtui

Twitter:  @AnjTui

about.me:  https://about.me/andrewtui

I look forward to having you along on the journey xx