MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Success Stories:
Beyond The Connections
At Kopi Date, our vision of success transcends the traditional milestone of finding “the one”.
We believe that true success in dating encompasses both the discovery of a fulfilling relationship and the journey of personal growth that comes along with it. This series shines a light on members who embody our ethos of growth-minded dating.
A strategist’s key to unlocking great dates and great conversations
Yannis*, Strategy Consultant
*The name has been changed to protect the confidentiality & privacy of our member.
Yannis* story reads like a modern-day odyssey - from Penang to Melbourne, consulting to fintech, and dancing to dating. It’s an adventurous leap into the world of dating. Through it all, he remains committed to finding balance, meaningful connections, and the joy of self-discovery. Today, he stands out as one of the top members at Kopi Date.
From Penang to the World
Born and raised in the picturesque landscape of Penang, Malaysia, Yannis navigated the typical path of education and early career ambitions with a spirit of curiosity and a hunger for more. His story took a pivotal turn when he left the familiar shores of Penang to study in Melbourne. “That was the first life-changing moment," he reflects.
Upon graduation, Yannis returned to Kuala Lumpur and dove into the world of consulting. Yet, the monotony of corporate life began to chafe against his desire for something more impactful. A career move to Singapore seemed like a chance to align his work with his evolving values, and he landed a role in a fintech startup, a field that promised both innovation and personal fulfillment.
“Everyone is on their own journey of dating and relationships”
His pursuit of a balanced life didn’t stop at his career; he dabbled in calisthenics, took up tennis lessons, and indulged in badminton—all while maintaining a deep-rooted passion for urban dance and Bachata. Dance, especially, became more than just a hobby; it evolved into a medium for connecting with others and expressing himself.
Amid this whirlwind of activities, dating took a backseat. “With so much on my plate, it became a secondary priority,” he admits.
Self-Discovery, Dating, and Relationships
Initially seeking a new approach to dating, he found himself intrigued by the prospect of social events that could provide exposure and ease in finding potential matches.
The initial phases were marked by nervousness and learning curves, but he approached each date with an open mind, devoid of high expectations. “I viewed it as meeting a new person and keeping the future open,” he says.
The decision to pursue a second date often boiled down to a blend of logical assessment and emotional resonance.
“At the same time, [don’t] narrow down too much and create this long laundry list. Make sure to keep mind open”
For Yannis, the experience has played a significant role. in refining his perspective on life. With each date and new experience, he gains a clearer understanding of what he truly seeks in a partner. Yet, he remains cautious not to narrow his criteria too much or a laundry list of expectations. By keeping an open mind and acknowledging that most people are also figuring out their own paths in dating, Yannis finds comfort in the shared journey of uncertainty.
Success in dating, for him, is twofold. Firstly, it's about forming a genuine connection, regardless of its romantic nature. Secondly, it's about nurturing and exploring that connection over time. While his experiences with Kopi Date haven’t yet led to a potential romantic partner, he values the platform's ability to streamline the search for potential connections.
Yannis’ Advice
For those considering Kopi Date, his advice is pragmatic: “Find an analogy that helps you stay relaxed,” he suggests. “For me, it’s about meeting another stranger and seeing where it goes. For others, it might be like making a sale or another personal comparison.”
Whether viewing dates as casual meet-ups, making a sale, other personal ways, Yannis’ tips of re-framing the experience can reduce stress and help form more authentic connections.
FREE! Healthy Dating Guide
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Kopi Date’s Healthy Dating Guide is designed to help singles date healthily and build long-term, fulfilling relationships.