Je Alipio
The Philippines
Games, BuzzCity
Been in Singapore for four years
Currently a Singapore Permanent Resident
A people-oriented individual, Je enjoys the diversity and harmony of the many cultures he has encountered in Singapore. The 27-year-old says, “I feel I have matured and grown a big deal holistically in the four years that I’ve been here.” He shares an apartment in Kallang with his friends.
Since coming to Singapore, Je has discovered a talent for drumming, and hopes to play regularly in a local pub one day. He is currently leading the music ministry at his church community.
Je is now an Executive Producer of Games at BuzzCity, a mobile media company. “I saw Singapore as having very high potential in terms of development in the gaming Industry. And the best thing is everything works here!” exclaims Je. Summing up the local gaming industry as “both progressive and aggressive”, Je predicts that it will be taken even more seriously within the next three to five years. Referring to the gaming development courses available at both NUS and NTU, he observes thoughtfully, “Singaporeans are fortunate to have such visible support at the ‘national level’.” To him, the government’s intention to build up knowledge and hone talents in the gaming industry also shows they are planning for the long-term.
It is clear that this is one man who enjoys his work. However, he too had his fair share of relocating woes. Confessing to loneliness and homesickness initially, Je has, with time, adjusted to being away from the familiarity of home. “I’ve never felt alienated here though,” he adds frankly. This hardly comes as a surprise since Je has built up quite a social life for himself. Besides playing basketball regularly, he is learning to play drums and engages in volunteer work with two organisations! He finds it immensely gratifying to bring joy and meaning to others.
While most rave about Singapore’s cleanliness, it is the “technology in action” that Je finds most remarkable. “You can really see how Singapore harnesses technology to enhance the lives of its people. It’s very futuristic.” He also marvels at how people hailing from vastly different cultures can exist harmoniously in such a small place. “With so many races living in such a small place, one would think there’s racism here, but I don’t see it. The equality of different people is transparent in everyday life.” Considering the extent of worldwide conflict arising from racial dissent, Singapore does deserve a pat on the back for her efforts in maintaining racial harmony.
Je encourages his fellow countrymen and others to come experience the myriad of opportunities that Singapore proffers. He gives ample warning though – “You need to be plan well. You can’t slack off here. You always have to be 110% alert and think on your feet. To be ready to do anything.” For Je, that readiness to do anything has paid off. His spur-of-the-moment decision to start anew in Singapore has found him satisfaction. “Discover what makes you happy, have the will to choose it and have the strength to make it endure.”