25 Years Old – Starting Late or Just Right?

In today’s fast-paced digital world, it often feels like 18-20-year-olds have a head start. Many have been immersed in technology from an earlier age, naturally adapting to the online space.

For me, it wasn’t the same. I didn’t have access to a computer until I was 10, and even then, it was mostly for school essays or projects. By the time I turned 13, my interaction with technology was still limited.

When it came to choosing a career, my family emphasised management studies. That’s how I ended up pursuing hotel management—a degree I initially chose because of my love for languages, travel, and social studies. I thought it would keep my options open for future specialisation.

But beyond my formal studies, I explored creativity in every way possible:

• Dancing, music, scrapbooking, bakery and painting—I tried it all, embracing new challenges with enthusiasm.

• This foundation in creativity stayed with me, even as I focused on business and management.

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Discovering Marketing

During my degree in hotel management, I was introduced to marketing. Initially, I didn’t feel connected to it. However, as I delved deeper into KPIs, campaign strategies, and inbound marketing, something clicked.

I realised how marketing bridges data and creativity—a blend I find incredibly exciting. It reminded me of financial studies but with the added bonus of colourful reports, creative approaches, and constant innovation.

A standout moment for me was working on a project that required:

• Conducting detailed research,

• Creating a website,

• Designing a social media strategy, and

• Setting data-driven KPIs to measure success.

First Digital Marketing Project

For the first time, I felt the synergy between structured analysis and creative freedom. It was a turning point that solidified my interest in marketing.

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Why I Chose to Shift Focus

Initially, I thought I’d specialise in marketing within the hotel industry. However, the opportunities felt too limited. The industry didn’t inspire me enough to explore my full potential.

By the summer of 2024, personal changes gave me the freedom to break out of expectations. I decided to explore digital marketing and e-commerce opportunities, and it felt like a fresh start.

In July, I attended Talent Land, where masterclasses from top marketing professionals challenged me deeply. For a moment, I doubted if I could succeed in such a competitive field. But this experience reignited my drive. I realised I could bring unique skills and perspectives to the table, including:

• Business knowledge: I understand sales departments and their expectations of marketers. This is why campaign strategy and trade marketing excite me the most.

• Intercultural experience: International camps and my education taught me ethical communication and cross-cultural collaboration.

From 11 years old, I attended international camps for four years in a row, immersing myself in diverse cultures and perspectives. This experience, combined with my studies in an international business school, shaped my confidence in cross-cultural communication.

• Luxury market insights: Hotel industry studies taught me about client expectations in the luxury market. I developed strong listening skills, effective communication, and teamwork.

• Adaptability: Constant change doesn’t faze me. I’ve learned to adapt quickly to new environments.

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Why Starting Late is My Strength

• Starting later allowed me to explore diverse paths, shaping my unique perspective.

• I bring a broader, interdisciplinary approach, blending creativity, analytics, and adaptability.

• I’m fueled by a genuine eagerness to learn and continuously improve.

Rather than seeing it as a limitation, starting late has made me more determined to make every opportunity count, approaching marketing with curiosity, dedication, and a strong desire to contribute meaningfully. It’s this journey that drives my ambition and passion for growth.

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Looking Ahead

I am excited about the limitless possibilities in marketing, particularly in areas like trade marketing, e-commerce, and branding. I know I can build on my experiences, adapt quickly, and grow in a dynamic and ever-evolving field.

This journey might have started late, but it’s already proving to be worth it.