Cover Dr Suhina Singh Cesseni
Dr Suhina Singh Cesseni
1 / 1
The start-up founder and entrepreneur shares more about the importance of closing the gap in the healthcare industry
Dr Suhina Singh Cesenni’s interest in the healthcare industry began at a young age—the interest sparked naturally as both her parents, Dr Santosh Singh and Sharitha, are in the healthcare profession. Her father, a dentist in South Africa, first exposed her to the field. Since then, she has been “fascinated by the human body” and how it works. Thus, South Africa-born professional decided to follow in her family’s footsteps as a healthcare professional.
Soon after graduating with a bachelor's degree in medicine and surgery from Stellenbosch University in South Africa, she began as a general practitioner in Cape Town. It was there that Suhina realised the inefficiencies of the South African public healthcare system.
“As a physician, I saw first-hand how fragmented health data can be, and how difficult it is for patients and healthcare providers to access and share information,” she recalls.
Don’t miss: Women’s health with Evolve: why it’s time to reframe women’s health
On top of this, Suhina experienced this fragmentation first-hand, being a chronic disease patient with three autoimmune disorders.
“Keeping track of all my health data was always a huge struggle for me. I found myself drowning in a sea of paper documents and scattered digital files from different healthcare providers everywhere,” the entrepreneur explains.
According to RBC Capital Markets, approximately 30 per cent of all the world’s data volume is generated by the healthcare industry. That said, data received is unstandardised, making it difficult to share important health information and ways to help these patients improve their daily lives.
Seeing a need for a change, Suhina decided to make a difference in the industry, complementing her medical training with a master’s degree in international health management. This had allowed her to further understand healthcare systems and policies with a different set of eyes.
The need to connect fragmented data grew more apparent during the Covid-19 pandemic. A journal by the National Library of Medicine shared that on top of placing “enormous strain on countries around the world”, the pandemic had also exposed “severe gaps in public health infrastructure” and the need for better health data management.
This was the final push the entrepreneur needed to make a difference in the industry. “[The pandemic] was a call to action that I couldn’t ignore,” she shares. Together with her good friend, Daniel Wang, the duo created Jonda Health, an online health tech platform that provides useable and accessible health data while respecting data sovereignty.
In case you missed it: Papilla Haircare’s newest product range revolutionises scalp health
With Jonda Health, Suhina hopes to see a shift towards more patient-centred healthcare. On top of allowing patients to have “greater control and access to their health data”, the app also allows healthcare providers to improve care outcomes and treatment plans. While researchers can leverage the data to advance the industry further.
“Jonda has been a game-changer for me [as a patient], allowing me to finally keep track of my biomarkers, radiology reports and more without feeling overwhelmed… It also makes finding exactly what I’m looking for incredibly easy,” she says.
While Suhina is busy changing the healthcare industry for the better, we catch up with her as she shares more on how she makes it work.
What is a typical morning like for you?
Suhina Cesenni (SC): My mornings usually start with a 30 to 60 minute walk in Botanical Gardens. It's a great way to clear my mind, reconnect with nature and get energised for the day ahead. If my husband can't join me, I love listening to my favourite Spotify playlist to set the tone for a productive day.
What do you usually have for breakfast?
SC: Well, I hate to admit it, but I'm pretty boring when it comes to breakfast. I have the same thing almost every day—steel-cut gluten-free oats with lactose-free milk and a big cup of coffee. But hey, it works for me.
What does a standard workday look like for you?
SC: As an entrepreneur and co-founder of a startup, my workday is a bit like a wild ride on a rollercoaster—you never quite know what's coming next. Some days are filled with meetings, some with deep dives into data, and others with brainstorming sessions with the team. It's a lot of juggling and wearing different hats, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
Read more: 5 mental health advocates pushing for change in Asia
How would you describe your working style?
SC: While I may be a workaholic who is always focused on the details, I still find time to crack jokes and have a good time with my team. I believe that a happy and motivated team is the key to success, and I try to bring that positive energy to every project we tackle.
What time do you usually have lunch? What do you usually have for lunch?
SC: Lunchtime can vary depending on the day, but it’s usually around 12 to 12:30 pm. I’m a firm believer in a well-balanced meal, so I like to keep it simple with grilled fish and veggies. But let’s be real, sometimes I just need to treat myself to a gluten-free pizza that I smother in chilli flakes.
Free time: overrated or underrated? Why?
SC: Honestly, I think free time is underrated, but as a co-founder of a young start-up, I find it challenging to carve out time for myself. I love what I do, so it’s easy to get wrapped up in work, but taking breaks is essential for staying refreshed and energised. When I can, I enjoy catching up with friends or indulging in a relaxing massage at home. It’s all about finding a balance between work and play, and I’m learning to appreciate the importance of taking time for myself.
How do you achieve a work-life balance? How do you set boundaries?
SC: At an early stage of a start-up, it’s incredibly difficult to achieve a work-life balance, but I’ve found that setting aside time for my health and well-being is essential. That’s why I never compromise on my strength training sessions at the gym twice a week with my personal trainer. Living with Ankylosing Spondylitis, a form of arthritis that affects the spine means that these sessions are particularly important for me. They help me manage my condition and ensure that I’m in the best possible shape to tackle the challenges of running a start-up.
What was your first job? What did you learn from it?
SC: My first job was actually pretty unconventional. I worked as a model while I was studying to be a doctor. It was definitely an interesting experience. I learned a lot about the fashion industry, working with different photographers and designers, and dealing with rejections. But, I think the most important thing I learned was how to present myself with confidence and poise, which has come in handy in the business world.
Risks: should you take them? Why or why not?
SC: Taking risks can be scary, but it's also one of the most exciting and rewarding things we can do in life. From switching careers to starting my own venture, I’ve taken several risks over the years, and each one has taught me something valuable about myself and what I'm capable of. Taking the plunge to start a new venture, was a mix of fear and excitement.
Looking back now, all I can say is taking that risk was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Sure, there are plenty of challenges and there will continue to be many more along the way, but each one has helped me to grow and learn in ways that I never could have imagined. I’ve never been happier.
How do you deal with your shortcomings?
SC: Dealing with shortcomings can be challenging. For me, it’s incredibly important to be self-aware, but sometimes it’s difficult to see our own blind spots. Having a strong support system of family and friends is key, they help me gain perspective and bring attention to things I may have overlooked.
Don’t miss: Mind meets body when it comes to gut health at this wellness retreat
What is one failure that you have experienced and what did you learn from it?
SC: As a physician, I’ve experienced what I see as a few failures. The one that stands out was when I was a young physician. A patient with a gastric ulcer came into the emergency room with moderate abdominal pain. After performing all the necessary tests, I diagnosed her with a gastric ulcer and recommended that she stay overnight for observation and to see the specialist. However, she insisted on leaving against medical advice. The next day, she returned to the emergency room unconscious with an “acute abdomen”. Her ulcer had burst, and she was taken to the operating room immediately. Sadly, despite our efforts, she didn't make it. Although there was nothing I could have done, it still felt like an absolute failure. I should have been more insistent on her staying instead of letting her go. Through this, I learned that it's crucial to advocate for my patient’s well-being and not let them make decisions that could endanger their health, even if it means being more assertive.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever gotten?
SC: The best piece of advice I’ve ever received was the classic saying: “How do you eat an elephant? One spoon at a time”. It always reminds me to break down large and daunting tasks into smaller, more manageable ones. This advice has helped me to stay focused and motivated in both my personal and professional life and has helped me to achieve many of my goals.
How do you manage stress?
SC: I find that it helps to take a step back and re-centre myself. Sometimes I’ll take a quick break to go for a walk or listen to some music, or even take a power nap if I feel I need it. And when things get really hectic, I make sure to prioritise my tasks and focus on one thing at a time. But most importantly, I've learned to be kind to myself and recognise that it’s okay to take a breather every now and then.
How do you stay motivated?
SC: What motivates me is the vision of what we’re trying to build and the positive impact we can make by solving the health data problem that exists today. Having an amazing co-founder and CTO who shares the same passion and drive as me, also keeps me motivated. We bounce ideas off each other, keep each other accountable, and celebrate our wins together. It’s a great feeling to know that we’re in this together and working towards a common goal.
Read more: Women’s Health With Evolve: Harnessing the power of your period
How do you prioritise tasks?
SC: When it comes to prioritising tasks, I like to start by making a to-do list with everything I need to accomplish. Then, I take a step back and think about which tasks are most critical and have the biggest impact on my goals. Sometimes, it's easy to get lost in the details, so I try to focus on the big picture and think about the short and long-term implications of each task. Of course, there are days when everything seems urgent, and that's when I rely on my trusty cup of coffee and take things one step at a time!
Do you have any advice for entrepreneurs hoping to enter the industry?
SC: My advice would be to never stop learning and to be open to new ideas and perspectives. Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision and who can provide different perspectives and skills. It’s also important to have a strong support system, both personally and professionally, to help you through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.
Above all, stay passionate about your vision and never give up on it. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and always keep pushing forward.
How do you unplug?
SC: Unplugging can be tough, especially since I love what I do and am driven to make a difference. However, at the same time, I know I need to prioritise self-care and recharge in order to be at my best. I’ve found that watching something nonsensical on Netflix or meeting up with friends can help quiet my mind and provide a much-needed break. I’m constantly listening to my body, and when I feel like I'm reaching my limits, I make a conscious effort to get the rest I need.
Do you have moments of doubt and how do you overcome them?
SC: Absolutely. All of us do and I am no different. I do tend to have an overly strong inner critic, so for me, it’s incredibly important to be self-aware of my thoughts and reframe them. Sometimes we can be our own worst enemies. Speaking to family and friends in those moments helps me immensely. Plus, I have a big pink neon sign on my desk that says “You can” to remind me that I can. Sounds ridiculous, but it helps.
What is the last thing you do before you go to bed?
SC: Before calling it a night, I make sure to set my alarm for the next day and try to give my phone the night off too. I find taking a break from technology helps me unwind and get ready for a good night's sleep. Once in bed, I like to take a few deep breaths to clear my head and let my body relax. It's become a little bedtime ritual of mine and helps me get a good night's rest.
Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.
