Looking up to Mum

When I was growing up, I always knew how much my mother loved me. Although I was the middle child, with an elder sister and younger brother, she still took the time to care for me and show her affection. I remember that whenever I was sick, she made her special beef soup to build me up again. Even when she started her own beauty business while I was in primary school, she was always there for me. And it seemed only right that I was there for her too, warming dinner for her when she came home late at night.

Playing a key role in my career

Then when I started working, she brought soup to the studio when she knew I was working hard because she worried that I might not take good care of myself. Mum's always the first person I turn to when I need advice, so I call her every day and we have dinner at least once a week. Probably the best piece of advice she ever gave me was to be honest, because honesty is the most valuable virtue. That simple principle has helped me at difficult times throughout my career.

Being a mum myself

Now I'm a mother myself, I appreciate more than ever just how much my mother gave me as a child. I try to be as good a parent to my children as she was to us. She's my role model and I notice that I even look like she did back then. I try to be a good daughter too and it feels so right to give her an allowance as a symbol of appreciation. Mum gave the me the best. Naturally, I want to do the same for her.

Bi Ren on OCBC SmartSenior

I am excited about the new OCBC SmartSenior Programme. It's a much more convenient way to give parents an allowance, but more importantly it provides so many other things that enrich their lifestyle.