Cover At the Standard Chartered Private Bank Spirit of Exploration, Leroy Chiao shared stories about his time as a NASA astronaut
At the Standard Chartered Private Bank Spirit of Exploration, Leroy Chiao shared stories about his time as a NASA astronaut
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From venturing into space to entrepreneurship, two acclaimed explorers tell Tatler what it means to embody the spirit of exploration
Standard Chartered Private Bank and Tatler Singapore hosted the second iteration of “A Night of Explorations” at the National Gallery Singapore on October 19. The event celebrated the bank’s innate banking philosophy by hosting two fearless keynote speakers who shared their personal pursuits of exploration.
In case you missed it: The Spirit of Exploration: Standard Chartered’s journey of discovery
Leroy Chiao is a highly accomplished former astronaut at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa), and International Space Station commander. Meanwhile, Anna Gong is chief executive officer and founder of software company Perx Technologies. They regaled guests with inspirational tales of venturing into unknown spaces, and pushing themselves to their physical and mental limits. Speaking to Tatler Singapore, they provide deeper insight into how embracing a spirit of expedition leads to ground-breaking innovation and results.
Above Leroy Chiao served as International Space Station commander
Leroy Chiao served as International Space Station commander
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How would you define applying the notion of exploration, in life and in a career?
Chiao: Exploration is taking action on your curiosities. I have been fascinated by spaceflight since I was young, so it was natural that I pursued a path to try to become an astronaut. This is the same kind of spirit that business leaders have, who are able to grow their businesses into new markets and directions, taking calculated risks.
Gong: Exploration is the driving force behind innovation. In life, exploration means embracing new experiences, perspectives, and challenges. It's a continuous cycle of learning, making mistakes, overcoming adversities, and creatively finding solutions while growing from it all, then repeating the process. In technology, it involves consistently pushing boundaries, seeking new solutions, and embracing change. It's not just about reaching new frontiers, but also about the journey itself.
What has been the most notable experience of pushing yourself to your limits?
Chiao: For me, my long mission aboard the International Space Station was a little bit like preparing for, and then running a marathon. I had flown three Space Shuttle missions prior, of around two weeks each, but those were more like sprints in the running analogy. Being in space for long periods of time are challenging physically in a biomedical sense, and of course, it can also be challenging mentally and emotionally.
Gong: One of the most memorable acts, where both my physical and mental limits were challenged, occurred during the early years of pivoting Perx from a B2C app to a B2B enterprise software company. I faced sleepless nights, requiring intense problem-solving and unwavering determination. It was a test of endurance, both physically and mentally. Ultimately, we overcame it, reinforcing the power of resilience and grit.
Above Anna Gong is CEO and founder of Perx Technologies
Anna Gong is CEO and founder of Perx Technologies
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Can you share an example of risk-taking in the name of exploration?
Chiao: Long before going to the launch pad, every astronaut has already decided that the reward is worth the risk. So, since the decision was already made, the worry was not being able to move forward. Up to the point I left NASA, I had always worked for a company or a government entity, with a regular pay cheque. Going out on my own in an entrepreneurial way was new to me and represented a different risk and potential reward. In the same spirit of exploration I mentioned earlier, I decided that it was worth it.
Gong: Risk-taking is an inherent part of entrepreneurship and life, and I can't imagine a world without it; it would be too mundane for me. As I've grown older and gained crucial experience, I've shifted toward taking calculated risks. I evaluate potential rewards against possible downsides, considering factors like market research, team capabilities, and alignment with our long-term vision. If the potential for growth and learning outweighs the risks, I'm more inclined to take that leap. Informed decision-making is key, recognising that some level of risk is inevitable in any worthwhile endeavour.
Above Leroy Chiao speaking at the Standard Chartered event in October
Leroy Chiao speaking at the Standard Chartered event in October
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What is a key lesson you’ve learned in your journey of striving to continue pushing boundaries?
Chiao: Again using the running analogy, I wasn't initially certain that I wanted to do a “marathon.” Even thought I kind of knew that I would accept the mission, I wanted to take a day or two to make sure. I think the biggest lesson is to not be risk averse, but to carefully consider opportunities and the risks they entail, to make thoughtful decisions in all aspects of one's life. This is living in the spirit of exploration. It's not for everyone of course, each individual must make his or her own decisions.
Gong: Human exploration, whether in technology or life, entails consistently pushing the boundaries of what we believe is possible. Surrounding ourselves with a diverse and motivated team, fostering a culture of innovation, and being open to change are crucial elements. Don't confine yourself to preconceived notions of what can be achieved; instead, embrace the unknown with curiosity and determination.
