Member Spotlight feat. S.L.
S.L.
Banker
Curious Experience Seeker
Meet S.L., a fervent lover of literature and the rich tapestry of global cuisine.
Always eager to embrace new experiences and destinations, S.L. is continually propelled beyond the bounds of comfort, craving knowledge and growth. With an innate passion for travel and a penchant for expressing through myriad creative avenues, S.L. finds joy in concocting experimental cocktails and channeling thoughts onto paper.
Meet S.L., an intrepid spirit always keen to embrace the unfamiliar. With an insatiable appetite for active learning and novelty, S.L. navigates life with a “go with the flow" attitude. A voracious reader, S.L.'s passion extends to crafting handwritten short stories. Art aficionados might find S.L. captivated at a gallery show, and those culinary-inclined will notice the experimentation with recipes from diverse cookbooks. Weekends often find S.L. immersed in the world of film, courtesy of platforms like Disney+, or catching up with friends.
Professionally, S.L. is a blend of Thai and Australian heritage, currently managing the dual roles of a Banker and a student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts with a major in English and Creative Writing. S.L.'s versatile background boasts experience across varied industries.
On the horizon, S.L. aspires to venture out more, quenching the thirst for exploration. She would happily devour Thai green papaya salad (Som Tum) for every meal and, if given a chance, would establish a serene bookstore infused with a cafe ambiance, selling books and stationery.
What do you believe has been the most significant factor contributing to your proficiency in writing?
For me, writing is about self-expression. It's the bridge that connects my inner world with the external. Drawing from personal experiences enriches my narratives, bringing authenticity that resonates deeply with readers.
It's often said that individuals who excel in writing tend to be adept at expressing their thoughts and emotions eloquently. How do you see this idea applying to your own writing journey?
At times, I do find it challenging to effectively articulate my emotions verbally. However, I've discovered that I have a natural inclination to express myself more eloquently through writing.
To overcome this challenge, I've developed a habit of journaling. Writing down my thoughts and feelings allows me to untangle the complexity of my emotions. It's remarkable how, once everything is on paper, I often have the realization that what I was grappling with may not be as complicated as it initially seemed.
What do you believe sets Kopi Date apart in the crowded field of dating apps?
Meeting new people in real life and engaging in conversations without any prior knowledge of them isn’t a daunting prospect for me, especially within the context of Kopi Date. The Experience Kit has been instrumental in making these interactions feel incredibly smooth and enjoyable.
My approach to such encounters is straightforward: I believe in being open and honest. When I engage in these conversations, I make it a point to convey that I'm genuinely there to meet new people, to listen to their stories, and share in meaningful exchanges. It's an opportunity to approach each interaction with an open mind, embracing the possibility of connecting with someone new and experiencing the richness of diverse perspectives.
Kopi Date: Your passion for literature shines through your pursuit of a degree in Creative Writing. Could you share what initially drew you into the world of writing and storytelling?
Literature has always been my refuge, offering me a gateway to myriad worlds. This profound love for reading naturally evolved into a passion for writing and storytelling. Beyond the realm of words, I am enthralled by all things creative, from painting with watercolors to perfecting a cocktail.
Did you find the Walk & Talk date series enjoyable and meaningful?
I thoroughly enjoyed the Walk & Talk series; it's a part of the experience that truly resonated with me. It allowed me to explore and appreciate parts of the city that I might not have noticed otherwise. What makes it even more captivating is that, despite the consistent location, each encounter with a different person brings a unique perspective and conversation.
Moreover, these outdoor settings provide a relaxed and casual atmosphere, which can be quite refreshing, especially when compared to the ordinary cafe date, which can feel like an interview sometimes. It eases the process and allows for more natural and authentic interactions, making the entire experience even more enjoyable.
Do you have a favourite memory or moment from Kopi Date?
One standout moment was with a date who emphasised clear communication, leading to a series of memorable interactions.
What made this experience particularly memorable was that we continued to stay in touch after our initial date. We went on several subsequent dates, establishing a strong friendship along the way.
Our conversations flowed effortlessly, characterised by honesty and straightforwardness. I deeply appreciated the fact that he didn't make me play the guessing game, but instead, he consistently communicated his intentions.
I recall a moment where he expressed his interest in continuing to see me, asking, ‘Would you want to meet again?' This level of clarity and openness made the experience incredibly enjoyable and refreshing.
As you've been a part of Kopi Date, have you observed any personal growth or development in yourself? If so, what aspects of your journey contributed to this growth?
One of the most notable improvements has been in my listening skills. I've become more adept at actively listening and asking for clarification when needed, which has enhanced the quality of my conversations.
Moreover, Kopi Date has contributed significantly to boosting my confidence. The experiences have made me realise, ‘I'm more capable than I realised.' It's been a confidence-building exercise that extends beyond just dating.
The platform has also helped me become more clear in my communication. I've learned the importance of knowing and expressing what I want, which has been a valuable skill in both dating and other aspects of life.
Additionally, my journey with Kopi Date has opened my eyes to the fact that there are genuinely good people out there. It's been reassuring to meet individuals who share common interests and values. This realization has made me more open to the idea of meeting new people and expanding my social circles.
How would you convey the essence of Kopi Date to a newcomer?
Kopi Date is a unique platform that I'd describe as more than just a typical dating service. It's not focused on the traditional romantic aspects of dating. What sets it apart is the emphasis on genuine human connections and meaningful conversations.
What I appreciate most about Kopi Date is the sense of safety and clarity it provides. It ensures that when you engage with someone on the platform, you can be confident that they are genuinely interested in meeting and getting to know you.
The curated process at Kopi Date is particularly reassuring. They meticulously select their members, conduct onboarding calls to verify identity and intentions, and only then enroll individuals into the platform. This careful attention to detail ensures a more authentic and secure experience, making it an ideal place to connect with like-minded people.