It is common in many societies, especially in Asia, to be considered successful if you graduate from a prestigious university and earn a high salary.
Meet two siblings who defied the conventional belief that financial success equates to happiness. Despite their high-paying jobs, they chose to pursue their passion and improve their mental health by starting a unique business.
Meet the Sisters Who Left Stable Income Jobs
Rochelle, 31, with a degree in Biomedical Sciences, had been immersed in the corporate world since graduation. Her sister Leah, a graduate in International Hotel & Tourism Management, also had a thriving career. Yet, both sisters left these high-paying jobs to achieve financial independence through their passion project.
While corporate jobs guarantee a stable income, they often come at the cost of mental health. Leah left her job due to the downturn in the hotel industry during Covid-19, while Rochelle wanted to explore life beyond the 9-to-5 grind.
The Unique Business Idea
Rochelle has always been an independent thinker, breaking away from the typical female stereotype. She has been fascinated by supercars, and her childhood dream was to own a Mustang, a car not commonly driven by female drivers.
When asked how the idea originated, Rochelle explained that it came to them during a drive home with her sister Leah. They decided to combine their love for coffee and cars into a unique venture: a coffee shop in a Ford Mustang.
"Why not try combining cars and coffee, as it is what we truly love, and it would be awesome to make a living out of it!" she recalls.
After years of hard work in the corporate world, she finally got herself a Mustang. Now, the sisters drive around Penang Island, blending their love for coffee and cars into a business that symbolizes freedom and passion.
"This baby step is a milestone for us as it is making us reach our long-term dream of experiencing freedom. We also aim to inspire others in our community to embrace this lifestyle."
Support and Inspiration
Their parents have always been their biggest supporters, constantly encouraging and believing in their daughters' dreams.
From a young age, Rochelle and Leah's parents taught them to follow their passions and strive for excellence in whatever they pursued. Their parents consistently reassured them of their full support in all their endeavours, regardless of how unusual or challenging they may be.
With their parents' solid support, the sisters became confident in taking bold steps in their careers and lives.
Beyond Cars and Coffee
Apart from cars and coffee, the two Kedah-born sisters also have additional passions. Rochelle enjoys Pilates and Muay Thai, embracing a diverse range of experiences to develop a well-rounded perspective. Leah started her own floral business, balancing it with her role as a barista at Mustang Coffee.#
Mustang Coffee: A Roadside Sensation
Mustang Coffee, the first-ever roadside coffee shop where baristas brew fresh coffee from the back of a Mustang, has become a viral sensation in Penang. Located in Tanjung Bungah, it attracts cyclists and coffee enthusiasts with its unique blend of convenience and quality.
The sisters' dedication to exceptional coffee in an unconventional setting has drawn both locals and visitors. Their commitment and the Mustang have become symbols of their brand, adding a touch of coolness to Penang's coffee culture. As word spreads, Mustang Coffee is set to become a must-visit spot in Penang.