Things They Don’t Tell You is a weekly online column that dives deep into the lives of Prestige 40 Under 40 class of 2020 laureates, where they share little-known stories and offer insights on things that go under-the-radar. This week, we get candid with Jason Lee, Founder of Scent by SIX.
I joined Givaudan, the world’s number one fragrance and flavour house, in 2010. I saw a job ad for Management Associate in an MNC in the health and beauty industry. Out of 1,000 applicants, I was one of the two hired that year.
My greatest achievement is creating the world’s first TCM scent for Eu Yan Sang in 2019.
I also created a scent for an old lady with severe dementia. That scent was based on her life experiences. When she took a whiff, she started crying. It was priceless. After such a long time, she finally blurted out the name of her deceased husband. A meaningful scent can bring back memories and it is indeed miraculous.
I am passionate about making a difference to others’ lives. Besides volunteering in the grassroots, Scent by SIX also has a renewed brand purpose: to use scents to soothe, to heal and to delight our mental wellness. At the end of the day, the kind of legacy I want to leave behind for my children is beyond monetary. I am not a perfect father, however, I will try my best to set a good example for them.
My father showed me how to be a best friend to my children.
It is so important to be able to come home every night to have dinner with my family no matter how busy I am.
One of the best things I’ve heard is my wife saying yes. But I’m almost sick of her nagging and saying, “You forgot to turn off the lights again.”
I’m able to touch hearts and minds, scent-sitively.
I can also too much of a risk taker for my own good. Another weakness of mine is food: a bowl of Tokusen toroniku shio ramen (ramen with roasted pork cheeks) from Santouka Ramen will make me go weak.
God forgive me, but I hate irresponsible and errant drivers on the road.
I’d rather be shot than eat fruits.
Fear is a liar. I learnt to love failures. They are the best teachers!
Do not be judgmental, keep an open mind.
I’d tell young Jason to treasure time. Make good use of every minute, plan your future and seize the day!
Life is unpredictable. Stay adaptable, seize the day and don’t ever waste time feeling unhappy or worried.
The stupidest thing I’ve ever done is to bungee jump from Macau Tower.
I feel my best when I am able to give, when I am able to make others feel good.
Singapore is also called “Ujong”. It means “tip” in Malay, as Singapore is located at the tip of the Malay Peninsula.
(All images: Jason Lee)
