From Café Owner to Multi-Venture Entrepreneur: A Journey of Growth & Innovation

Nine years ago, I moved from Malaysia to Australia to pursue higher education, earning a degree in Management and a Master’s in Business IT. My early career in the corporate sector provided stability, but it lacked the fulfillment I craved. The isolation and burnout brought on by remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic made me realize that I was destined for something more—something hands-on, people-driven, and deeply connected to the community. I set my sights on business ownership.

In August 2020, I took a bold leap into entrepreneurship, purchasing my first café—a small, hole-in-the-wall takeaway spot—for just $7,000. With minimal staff and limited turnover, I took on every role myself, from barista to chef. Over the next two years, I expanded my portfolio by acquiring two additional cafés, navigating the immense challenges of Melbourne’s lockdowns while ensuring these businesses remained operational.

By early 2022, the journey had tested me to my limits. I contemplated selling my cafés and even returning to Malaysia, but deep down, I knew I had yet to realize my full potential. Instead of stepping away, I redefined my approach to business. My vision evolved from simply running cafés to building sustainable, high-impact enterprises—businesses that extend beyond profitability to foster community, innovation, and long-term growth. I shifted my focus from working in the business to working on it, creating a strategic foundation for sustainable expansion.

At only 29, I have transformed WA KAZOKU Group from a small café operation into a thriving, multi-award-winning enterprise. Today, I own four vibrant cafés, a popular restaurant, and an early learning centre, and I am developing a mixed-use property that will further expand my hospitality and community-focused offerings.