An irrepressible entrepreneur, Jade Leong, CEO and Chief Voyager at Voyager’s Table, has been hosting, curating, and producing events for over 20 years.
Her adventures have taken her across the world, producing events on five continents, from intimate house parties to 100,000-person festivals.
Jade previously worked as a therapist and philanthropic consultant, turning her passion and expertise for producing events into a full-time venture in Voyager’s Table at the beginning of 2017.
We asked Jade 10 questions about her work, life, and some of her favourite things.
Here’s what she told us.
What’s your favourite hobby, pastime, or sport to play?
I’m obsessed with lawn bowls. It’s such a fun sport, there are cheap drinks, and adorable seniors who just think anyone under 65 is a “young person.” It’s a great way to stay feeling young!
What’s unique about your business?
We get to travel the world producing incredible experiences and events for fascinating people. We’re pretty lucky.
What’s your side hustle?
I would love to have time for a side hustle! Currently, I have no side hustle, although I have thought about becoming an insta-fluencer for middle-aged snowboard beginners like myself. It would be lots of content of me screaming and falling down snow slopes. I think it would be a good lark!
What’s your go-to travel destination?
Oh, so many! I have very special memories of trips to South Africa (Johannesburg, specifically), which is a gorgeous country and has the loveliest people.
Also, Bordeaux in France is my favourite European destination. It has the best wine and seafood as well as incredible architecture, art, and culture.
I would also be remiss not to mention Singapore, which is my favourite play city in Asia. There’s something for everyone and it’s so easy to get around and explore.
What’s one must-hear podcast?
My favourite is Gastropod, which looks at food through the lens of science and history. Fascinating stuff!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
When I first started my company, a dear friend and mentor told me “Cash FLOW is king.” I’ve always applied that to my business. Rather than focusing just on revenue generation or profits, we manage our cash flow well so we can always take care of our clients, team members, and our vendors.
This philosophy has held us steady through many economic ups and downs, and is a big part of why we’re still here today!
I also love my Dad’s advice: you are by the books that you read, the friends that you keep, and the food that you eat. An oldie but a goodie!
What’s the most interesting fact you know?
There was a war with emus in Australia… and the humans lost.
It’s true! Go on, Google it. You’ll thank me later. “Emu war Australia” will work a treat. My country (Australia) is weird and wonderful!
What’s one dish everyone should try?
Curry laksa (from a good Malaysian/Singaporean restaurant, or my house!) is always a winner.
What’s an important skill to master?
It’s fun to be able to make your own pasta at home, and it’s quite easy too! My favourite recipe is:
- 3 cups of flour (gluten-free works OK too)
- A pinch of salt
- 4 eggs
- A splash of water as needed
Making pasta is a great dinner party activity and it means everyone can get involved.
What’s your favourite memory of Vancouver?
Oh, wow, this is a hard one, I have so many! A standout is the Celebration of Light each year in English Bay. We host a party for each night at our place and do themed food for the different countries.
And it’s always around Pride weekend which just adds to the festivities. Summer in Vancouver is the best!
Why did you join And-Co?
For the lovely humans and the thoughtful curation of the space and the community! I’m so glad to have found you all!
If you’re in search of a modern, full-service, and flexible workspace where your team can work alongside like-minded professionals, book a tour of And-Co today.