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July 1, 2024

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Benny Yap and Jae Tan are not just co-founders of TGFX Agency; they are a powerhouse duo transforming businesses through innovative branding and marketing.

Benny Yap, a seasoned entrepreneur, is renowned for his outstanding achievements in the marketing and advertising industry. His expertise encompasses advertising, branding, illustration, and ideation. Benny Yap’s leadership and artistic vision play a pivotal role in shaping TGFX’s distinctive approach to branding and marketing, driving its success.

Jae Tan is a dedicated and results-driven entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in branding, web development, and video production. Under his strategic guidance and leadership, Jae has propelled TGFX to unprecedented success.

Jae Tan (left) and Benny Yap in a meeting.
Jae Tan (left) and Benny Yap in a meeting.

In an exclusive interview with Asian Hustle Network, Benny and Jae share their journey, challenges, and insights, offering a glimpse into the dynamic partnership driving TGFX. Read on to discover how they are transforming brands and making a lasting impact on the marketing industry.

EARLY CAREER AND THE BIRTH OF TGFX

Benny Yap and Jae Tan both studied graphic design and advertising and initially met through a design project. This collaboration not only brought them together as best friends but also sparked the idea of starting a business together. They realized that by combining their forces—their creativity and design skills—they could tackle the business world more effectively as a team. This shared vision and partnership led them to start TGFX.

OVERCOMING INITIAL CHALLENGES

Benny and Jae faced significant challenges when starting TGFX, especially during the COVID period. One of the biggest hurdles was adapting their business model. Initially, they focused on one-off jobs, but they soon realized the need for stability and consistent cash flow.

They decided to pivot to a retainer basis, particularly in social media marketing. This shift not only helped them navigate through a difficult time but also allowed them to build stronger, long-term relationships with their clients.

DYNAMIC PARTNERSHIP

As co-founders, Benny and Jae complement each other perfectly in running TGFX. Benny, previously from BBDO Advertising agency, brings a wealth of creativity and innovative ideas, driving the creative direction and ensuring the campaigns are cutting-edge, Meanwhile, Jae excels in managing operations and strategic planning, providing a solid foundation for the business. This dynamic allows them to leverage their individual strengths, resulting in a well-balanced and effective partnership.

TGFX’S MISSION AND CORE VALUES

TGFX’s mission is to help businesses across Australia succeed and thrive. Their core values include providing world-class services and being recognized as one of the best and most innovative agencies in Australia. They emphasize treating clients like family and growing alongside them, fostering strong, long-term relationships built on trust and mutual success. 

INDUSTRY-SPECIFIC CHALLENGES

Having worked with numerous businesses across various industries, TGFX encounters several industry-specific challenges. Key issues include maintaining brand consistency, attracting the right customers, and building a loyal customer base.

TGFX addresses these challenges by tackling each core issue one day at a time and maintaining consistency in everything they do for the brand. This methodical and dedicated approach helps their clients overcome obstacles and achieve long-term success.

IMPACT ON THE ASIAN COMMUNITY

As entrepreneurs with roots in the Asian community, Benny and Jae see TGFX Agency as having a significant impact and contribution to this community. With 80% of their clientele being Asian-owned businesses, TGFX Agency is dedicated to helping the Asian business community in Australia thrive. By providing tailored branding and marketing strategies, they support these businesses in achieving success and growth.

Jae Tan (left) and Benny Yap
With TGFX, the duo aim to uplift Asian businesses in Australia.

ADVICE FOR ASPIRING ENTREPRENEURS

Benny and Jae emphasize the importance of adding value to the marketplace. Aspiring entrepreneurs should understand their consumers’ needs and preferences thoroughly, conduct extensive market research, and stay attuned to industry trends and client feedback.

“Persistence is key—never give up, even when faced with challenges. Building a successful agency requires resilience, continuous learning, and an unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service and results. In addition to that, our team is the cornerstone of our success. Without their dedication and hard work, we wouldn’t have achieved our current position. Each member plays a crucial role in our accomplishments, bringing unique skills and perspectives that drive our progress forward. We are deeply grateful for their commitment and contribution to our shared goals. Together, we continue to grow and thrive, thanks to their invaluable efforts,” Benny and Jae shared.

Benny Yap (left) and Jae Tan
Benny (left) and Jae highlight persistence, market research, and a strong team as keys to success.

FUTURE VISION AND GOALS

TGFX Agency continually strives to expand into new areas across Australia and different industries, aiming to deliver data-driven results to businesses in need of growth. They are also committed to expanding their Malaysia agency, bringing on new businesses, and growing the team there.

Benny and Jae are excited about the future and look forward to furthering their impact on businesses both locally and internationally. Their advice to others is to stay focused, and consistent, and always strive to add value. Understand your customers’ needs and don’t shy away from innovation.

CONNECT WITH TGFX

Website: tgfx.com.au

Instagram: @tgfx.agency

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The Jed Foundation (JED) held its annual gala on June 4 at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City, gathering more than 650 guests for a special evening dedicated to raising awareness and taking action for youth mental health. The sold-out event raised over $1.6 million in support of JED’s mission: to protect emotional health and prevent suicide among teens and young adults.

Hosted by Emmy-winning journalist, Savannah Sellers, the gala recognized individuals and organizations at the helm of the drive for youth mental health awareness. “The mental health struggles of our young people are undeniable, as suicide remains a leading cause of death for this population,” said JED CEO John MacPhee who emphasized the urgency of their work. “The dedication of tonight’s incredible individuals, organizations, and advocates — helping JED protect and prioritize student mental health with life-saving tools, resources, and connections — serves as a positive reminder that it takes every one of us to prevent suicide and foster a kinder community here at home and across the country.”

Honoring Voices Making an Impact

Singer, actor, and DIVE Studios co-founder Eric Nam and Peloton instructor and entrepreneur Ally Love received the 2025 Voice of Mental Health Award. Both were praised for destigmatizing mental health and encouraging open dialogue.

Nam highlighted the importance of prioritizing self-care, “Mental health is universal; it impacts how every one of us shows up in the world.” His work with JED and Mindset has helped connect AAPI youth and K-pop fans to personal mental health stories. 

Eric Nam | Singer, Actor, and DIVE Studios Co-founder

Love also shared her own experiences: “Living with mental health challenges is part of my story, but it does not define who I am. ”

Ally Love | Entrepreneur, CEO/Founder of Love Squad

Victoria’s Secret PINK earned the Corporate Voice of Mental Health Award, recognized for a five-year partnership with JED focused on Gen Z engagement. Through digital tools, campus outreach, and initiatives like the PINK with Purpose Project — which awarded $25,000 grants to 10 young advocates — PINK has helped expand access to support and resources.

“PINK is all about inspiring Gen Z to show up authentically and find joy in this chapter of life,”  said Leslie Nixon, Associate Vice President of Community Relations at Victoria’s Secret & Co. “Our work with JED highlighted that supporting positive mental health is the key to fostering growth, connection, and future success. 

Leslie Nixon, Associate Vice President of Community Relations at Victoria’s Secret & Co.

Celebrating Student Advocates and Voices of Hope

Model and mental health advocate Remi Bader introduced the recipients of the 2025 Student Voice of Mental Health Award: Rohan Satija, a recently graduated Texas high school senior, and Nora Yanyi Sun, a rising junior at Harvard. Both students shared powerful reflections on their mental health journeys and their work to uplift peers through advocacy.

The evening featured performances by Lorna Courtney, Thomas Robert Kitt, BAILEN the Band, and the Brooklyn United Marching Band, each contributing to a moving celebration of resilience, hope, and connection.

To view event photos, visit JED’s Facebook photo album.
To support JED’s work, visit jedfoundation.org/donate.

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  • Accessible: It should be usable by users with disabilities, and it is equally easy to use on mobile devices and laptops/PC.
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An Tran Turned a Receptionist Job Into a 25-Year Journey to Executive Leadership in Banking

When you first meet her, you feel her warmth—grounded, welcoming, and full of passion. With over 25 years in the banking industry, An Tran, Market Executive at Banc of California, has become known not only for her distinctive leadership but also for the deep care she gives to her family—and for her dedication as a passionate skincare and self-care advocate.

Yet behind these roles lies a journey marked by resilience—a story not only of her own, but of many Vietnamese immigrants who navigated life in a new country with hope for a brighter future and the American dream.

An Tran | SVP Market Executive at Banc of California
An Tran | SVP Market Executive at Banc of California

A Humble Beginning, A Lifelong Commitment

Banking wasn’t part of her plan at the start of her career. In fact, her first job was as a receptionist at a bank in San Francisco. But she didn’t let that humble beginning define her. Fueled by passion, relentless effort, and the sense of responsibility that came from being the eldest of eight children, she turned what she lacked in experience into unstoppable drive.

“My professional life has always revolved around service and sales, with a natural inclination to care for others, perhaps stemming from my role as the eldest of eight,” she says. 

Over the years, she took every opportunity whenever she could to learn, grow, and serve her clients better. Her work ethic and trust-building skills propelled her forward, step by step, until she eventually became the Market Executive for Banc of California—a role she holds today with pride and purpose.

A Journey Rooted in Sacrifice and Survival

By her own admission, she doesn’t have any news-breaking stories. She is simply a daughter born to Vietnamese immigrants who came to America during the 1970s and ’80s. Yet it was her generation that first began to rise out of poverty, despite arriving in the U.S. with nothing in hand. “Through relentless hard work, we’ve not only achieved the American dream but also built the lives our parents envisioned for us when they first arrived,” she reflects.

Her family’s story, like so many others, is one of hope and sacrifice. And through years of determination and resilience, she has proven the grit and strength of her community—successfully building the life her parents once dreamed of when they left Vietnam.

An Tran has successfully built what her parents imagined for their children in the US. 
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Facing Challenges with Grace and Grit 

Climbing the banking ladder over the past 25 years was no easy feat for a young woman like An. She faced unique hurdles—from skepticism to subtle sexism in the workplace.

But instead of letting those experiences hold her back, she used them as fuel to move forward.

“Every challenge throughout my life and career has been a positive force, shaping me into the person I am today,” she shares. “These experiences pushed me to find new ways to grow and overcome adversity. I believe challenges are essential for growth—without them, we can’t truly learn. Remaining a lifelong student, absorbing both small and significant lessons daily, is key. The moment you stop learning is the moment you stop achieving.”

An Tran has faced criticism with grace and determination, climbing the banking ladder step by step.
An Tran has faced criticism with grace and determination, climbing the banking ladder step by step.

Empowering the Asian Community, One Role Model at a Time

From receptionist to executive, her journey is a remarkable one. But for her, the real achievements aren’t just titles—they’re the impact she’s had on others and the example she’s set for her children, her colleagues, and her community.

“I’m incredibly grateful to be where I am today, creating the life I envisioned and providing for my family in a way my parents dreamed of when we left Vietnam. My pride extends to every step of this remarkable path,” she says. 

She’s living proof. A former refugee who arrived in America with nothing is now leading in one of the most competitive industries in the country—and doing so with compassion, integrity, and purpose.

Connect With An Na Tran 

“My goal is to be a resource for the Asian community, showing that we are strong, career-driven, and incredibly successful.”

LinkedIn: An Na T.

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