SEO is constantly on the run, and what used to be your waving lucky cat might lose its charm the next day. Here are three key signs that your SEO’s “waving lucky cat” mode may have been deactivated.
Dropping Search Rankings
If Google search is keeping your website on the low-low, it’s time that your SEO strategy needs a reboot. Or else, algorithm updates or stronger competition could be dragging you down.
Low Organic Traffic
If your organic traffic is at a standstill, your keywords may be outdated, or your content may not be what the audience needs anymore.
High Bounce Rate
If visitors visit your website like a casual one-click-stand, then there’s a problem, too. It could mean slow load times, poor mobile navigation, or irrelevant content. Whatever it may be, all of them may hurt your SEO performance.
If your brand is facing any of these SEO challenges, it’s time for an update. AHN Solutions offers expert SEO strategies to help you improve rankings, increase traffic, and drive more conversions.
JFERRER is a talented Creative Director from Southern California. His journey began in high school when he discovered his love for film. Little did he know that this passion would lead him to an incredible path of self-discovery and empowerment.
It was in college that JFERRER embraced his cultural heritage as a Filipino American, realizing the significance of being Asian in shaping his identity. Despite facing doubts from others, he remained determined to pursue his dreams. This led him to create a documentary titled “DO WHAT I WANT,” shining a spotlight on the incredible work of young Asian creatives.
Now, JFERRER is gearing up for his next mission with “DO WHAT I WANT: SPIN OFF EDITION,” focusing on up-and-coming Asian American DJs in Southern California. Join us as we delve deeper into his story and his mission through an insightful interview with Asian Hustle Network.
THE ARTISTIC VOYAGE OF JFERRER
The world of music has been a constant inspiration for me. When I listen to a song, my mind instinctively creates music video scenes that synchronize perfectly with each beat. I knew that I had to make these vivid visions into reality and on the screen. I started taking clips of videos and putting them into music and created a whole new vibe and energy for the song. It was exciting to help people experience the song in a whole new way.
As my passion for storytelling through visuals grew, so did the scope of my aspirations. Beyond music videos, I became interested in capturing and celebrating diverse narratives and talent. This interest and experience took on a life of its own and I became involved with crafting and managing live events tailored specifically for emerging creatives.
These events became platforms for budding talents to shine, fostering a community of artistic expression and collaboration. I realize that creativity knows no bounds and I want to unleash it and inspire others to find their own creative gifts.
THE IMPACT OF HIS CULTURAL UPBRINGING ON HIS CREATIVE DIRECTION
I grew up in a Filipino American family. Throughout my life, I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by creative family members and friends. Knowing the immense talent and gifts of Asian Americans around me, yet seeing the simple, one-dimensional portrayals of Asian/Asian American characters in movies and television was disappointing.
I want to showcase the rich diversity and talents of Asian Americans and promote positive and authentic representation.
BREAKING BOUNDARIES WITH “DO WHAT I WANT”
Asian Americans do not rely on their creative side to make money. If we wanted financial stability, we would typically look at careers in the medical field, business, or engineering, right? Creative energy would just be reserved for hobbies. But why can’t it be our full-time career? That’s what I wanted to challenge in “Do What I Want”. I wanted to break free from the stereotypes and challenge the notion that you can’t be successful doing something creative and fun.
I believe in eliminating the fear of pursuing our passions and going against the grain. We have the power to choose our own paths and find immense success in doing what we love. This is the essence of the documentary I want to create – to shine a light on a community of like-minded individuals who have shattered barriers and defied expectations.
In this documentary, we will meet incredible artists, each driven by their unique passions and determined to leave their mark on the creative world. They stand as living examples of why this project exists – to showcase Asian creatives who fearlessly pursued their dreams, despite parental and societal pressures.
The title “DO WHAT I WANT” embodies the spirit of this documentary, as each person featured chose to follow their heart’s desires. They rejected the notion that their career should be dictated by others and, instead, embraced their true calling. This is a celebration of those who broke free from the confines of societal expectations and carved out their own path to success.
NAVIGATING CHALLENGES AND SEIZING OPPORTUNITIES AS A YOUNG CREATIVE
In the realm of young creatives today, networking their art stands as a paramount challenge. Excelling in their craft is undoubtedly crucial, yet without the ability to effectively brand their work and themselves, opportunities for exposure may be limited.
Embracing the significance of self-branding, however, holds the key to unlocking a broader audience and creating a multitude of opportunities that lie ahead. So, dare to showcase your true potential, and let your art shine brightly in the vast sea of possibilities. Together, your creativity and strategic branding will pave the way for a remarkable journey of growth and success. Keep believing in yourself, and the world will undoubtedly take notice of your inspiring creations.
A MESSAGE OF EMPOWERMENT FOR ASIAN AMERICAN ARTISTS THROUGH DO WHAT I WANT
I believe that “DO WHAT I WANT” has the power to ignite a flame of empowerment within the Asian and Asian American communities. It serves as a reminder for individuals to embrace their authenticity and follow their true passions, refusing to conform to societal norms or the cookie-cutter lifestyle. I envision a wave of inspiration, encouraging people to break free from limiting beliefs and embrace the unique paths that await them.
“DO WHAT I WANT” carries a profound significance for Asian American youth. As they witness the success and creativity of these artists, they can find a sense of connection and envision their own future selves achieving greatness. The documentary not only inspires confidence but also fosters a sense of community and unity among Asian Americans, reminding them that they too, can embrace their dreams and make a lasting impact in the world.
INSIGHTS AND ADVICE FROM JFERRER
Throughout my creative journey, the most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of letting go of seeking validation from others. Happiness cannot be solely dependent on the approval of others. While I appreciate and consider the professional opinions of others when it comes to my work, I firmly believe that I must retain ownership of my decisions. Embracing this mindset empowers me to stay true to my vision and creative expression, paving the way for genuine fulfillment and growth.
By freeing myself from the need for constant validation, I can embark on a path driven by authenticity and self-belief. This newfound sense of independence fuels my creativity and allows me to push boundaries without being confined by external expectations. As I continue to evolve creatively, I welcome constructive feedback and embrace the opportunities to learn and grow, but I will always hold firm to my convictions, knowing that the true essence of my work lies within my passion and dedication to making a meaningful impact.
At the age of 18, Aziza Aznizan embarked on a remarkable journey that would shape her life’s mission and inspire meaningful change. Today, she stands as a model, a PhD student, and the co-founder of Paint The World Malaysia, a non-governmental organization (NGO) committed to supporting marginalized communities.
Born and raised in Sarawak, Malaysia, Aziza’s early experiences in diverse environments fueled her desire to create a more inclusive world. Despite being a minority in her Chinese-stream private secondary school, and later as one of the few Muslims at the United World College Atlantic (UWC Atlantic) in the UK, Aziza used these situations to cultivate friendships across nationalities and ethnicities.
However, Aziza’s journey was not without challenges. During her stay in the UK and the US, she faced anti-Muslim sentiment, experiencing hurtful incidents due to her hijab. Rather than succumbing to negativity, she chose to channel her experiences into raising awareness about her culture and religion. Aziza firmly believes that greater inclusivity fosters understanding among different races, religions, backgrounds, and values.
In 2015, Aziza and fellow students founded Paint The World, advocating for inclusivity and youth empowerment. Aziza established the local branch in Malaysia, focusing on creating a supportive community for underprivileged youth. Support from Malaysian ministers and community leaders bolstered the organization’s growth.
Paint The World Malaysia’s projects have included language courses for Rohingya refugees and the United World Academy, an educational platform for disadvantaged youths. Aziza’s education in International Relations and International Law equipped her to navigate challenges and advocate effectively.
Rising from the bustling streets of Asia, a new wave of young eco-champions is shaping the world of green business. One of these changemakers is Samuel Tecuala, a student from the Philippines studying in the UK.
Tecuala realized that coconuts could do more than make tasty treats—they could also help the environment. Back home, he noticed that lots of people were lactose intolerant, which means they can’t drink regular milk. So, he started a company called Dehusk, which makes coconut milk that’s good for people and the planet.
This isn’t just one person’s effort. According to Study International, a survey found that almost everyone in Asia is willing to spend more money on products that are kind to the Earth. Around 40% of people want to buy things that don’t hurt the environment in the next few years. In fact, Asians care as much about the environment as folks in the Western world, and they’re extra concerned about things that are good for their health.
This change in attitude comes after the pandemic showed us how much we depend on a healthy planet. During lockdowns, places like New Delhi and Mumbai saw less air pollution. This made people pay more attention to living sustainably, which means using less energy and creating less waste.
Schools, like the EHL Hospitality Business School in Switzerland and Singapore, are teaching students how to make the world cleaner and better. They’re showing that even small actions, like not wasting things, can add up to a big difference.
People all over Asia are joining the green movement, and schools are teaching students how to keep the Earth healthy. This is a good reminder that even small steps can lead to a big change.
After decades of experience in the fashion industry in Paris, Pring Bunnag has embarked on a new venture that aims to revolutionize the perception of “made in Asia.”
Born in Thailand, she embarked on a transcontinental journey, spending her childhood in California, where her father owned a liquor store in Long Beach. Inspired by the rich heritage of Southeast Asia, Pring introduces “SIN-Dress” to the world, a brilliant reimagining of the classic sarong, or “sin” in Thai. This modern masterpiece skillfully blends elegance and adaptability, and it was created to enhance and appreciate the attractiveness of many body types.
What sets her creations apart is the meticulous attention to detail in the production process. Each piece of artisanal Thai silk undergoes individual hand printing and hand dyeing, resulting in wearable art that empowers women to embrace their unique beauty and personal style.
Pring aims to depart from fleeting trends, labels, and the unsustainable practices associated with fast fashion. By advocating for slow and mindful consumption, she aims to redefine luxury in the Asian fashion industry, proving that it can harmonize with ethical and sustainable principles while still delivering the highest quality.
In an exclusive interview with Asian Hustle Network, Pring delves into the depths of her brand Sucette and reveals the captivating story behind SIN-Dress.
HOW SIN-DRESS CAME TO LIFE
I was inspired by the Southeast Asian garment, the sarong, or “sin” in Thai, which is essentially a piece of fabric sewn into a tube, and traditionally worn as a skirt by both men and women.
I actually started Sucette as an artisanal shoe brand during the pandemic. I arrived in Thailand in February 2020, was 7 months pregnant, and saw Covid hit the country right after China. I ended up giving birth during the first lockdown and saw the economic devastation hit Thai artisan communities and saw the rising trend of “fast fashion”.
I was still freelancing as a shoe designer part-time and was deeply saddened by how badly Thai craftspeople were suffering economically and having to accept very low-paying and demeaning jobs to survive and I felt compelled to do something about it.
I started Sucette as an artisanal shoe brand featuring hand-woven Thai silks and hand-carved heels but due to the complexity of shoes and not wanting to have to invest in a ton of sizing and stock, I was playing around with the idea of the sarong in my head. I loved the idea of the garment and creating something that was at once truly “Thai/ Asian” but also contemporary and universal.
I also loved to collect vintage silk sarongs but never wore them as I didn’t have the skills of tying them. I also didn’t want to have to cut them into dresses as each silk was so perfect as it is and would be a shame to cut!
So I started to play around with the way it wrapped and one day I came up with the first “SIN-Dress”! I remember draping the entire piece of Thai silk on a mannequin and with just 2 pins, saw it hang beautifully as a tunic dress. I then added 24k gold plated brass hoops, handcrafted by a local workshop here in Bangkok, because I wanted to add a subtly luxurious and unique artisanal element.
From then, I worked on the longer version, which is also a single piece of silk without any cuts or complicated patterns, in keeping with the “essence” of the sarong.
My biggest inspiration is probably the way Siamese and Southeast Asian women wore the sarong historically. I loved looking at archive images, especially 19th-century photographs of women draped in beautiful silk and looking so elegant. My goal is to showcase this heritage to the world but in a contemporary way.
My other inspirations are Japanese designers, especially Issey Miyake and his invention of Pleats Please which is a conceptual collection, now renowned worldwide, but based on very Japanese ideas.
PRING’S EXPERIENCE IN THE PARISIAN FASHION INDUSTRY
Being in Paris taught me the value of heritage and know-how and combining that rich tradition with a contemporary twist.
In Paris, heritage is absolutely everywhere you look–from the architecture to the food to the fashion and the art, but creators aren’t afraid to take that heritage and give it a contemporary make-over, while still being respectful of tradition. I also learned the value of being unique and owning your individuality.
In Thailand and perhaps in Asia there is a tendency to “copy” what the West is doing, and I believe that we have so much wealth of culture and knowledge that it is much better to showcase our own identity than to try to be like someone else.
THE CREATIVE PROCESS
I fell in love with hand printing and dyeing silks because I found it very empowering that I could create totally unique artistic prints without having to go through the industrial process. For me, it is a similar process as artisans would do in their local communities, and I thought there is such value in making something beautiful and one-of-a-kind, for both the client and the maker.
I use a technique called “eco printing” which uses leaves and plants to print onto the silk. I also experiment with making my own natural dyes, tie-dyeing, and shibori dyeing techniques. My goal is to create wearable works of art that my clients will feel good in and hopefully keep forever.
WHAT MAKES THE SIN-DRESS UNIQUE
Unlike a typical fashion brand, I don’t create “collections”
The SIN-Dress comes in 2 variations only, the short and long versions, and fits most body shapes and sizes. However, each dress is made from a totally unique piece of hand-printed silk therefore each dress is unique.
My goal is to create a garment that would always fit, feel amazing on, and that each woman can style her own way to suit her individual personality. Much like the traditional sarong, there is no “correct way” to wear a “SIN-Dress”!
I always encourage my clients to have fun expressing their unique styles and to let their personalities shine. I want to create forever pieces of wearable art that are also effortless and versatile and can be worn for multiple occasions.
I’d love to be an example that it is possible to build a strong brand while going against the fashion industry’s vicious cycle of the “constant chase for newness” and overproduction. I’d also love to prove that “Made in Thailand/Asia” can be synonymous with sustainably handcrafted luxury and artistry at the highest level!
PRING’S GOALS AND ASPIRATIONS FOR SUCETTE
I would love for the SIN-Dress to become a household name worldwide, to prove that a garment based on Asian heritage can become universally appealing and desirable!
My goals for my brand Sucette is to create beautiful wearable art in a way that also contributes to positive change–for the environment by choosing sustainable and artisanal production methods, for local communities by providing highly paid and rewarding work, and for my clients by celebrating individual style and beauty.
