This month, we celebrate the strength, independence and beauty of some of the most influential women we know. Join us as we share more about them!
Beyond her daily grind as a Senior Marketing Manager in the media and advertising industry, Cheryl Loon runs Groove Music School, a music space she also founded. Here, she works with people from all walks of life in areas of personal development and well-being through the art of singing and music expression.
Cheryl picked up singing at the age of 10 as a way of expressing herself and has since built a decade of professional singing experience. As part of sharing her passions with others, she explored vocal teaching which led her to pursue various academic qualifications.
Today, she holds a Higher Diploma in Contemporary Vocal Teaching at The Voice College (UK), a certificate in Voice Disorders from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (NYC), a certificate in Early Childhood Music Teaching, and is currently pursuing a Life Coach qualification.
“I’ve always believed that my authenticity and genuineness allow me to relate with people well and I find great joy in contributing to their growth and bringing out the best in them.”
What helps you in achieving your goals?
A balanced life and the support of family and friends. Burn-out is a real problem for many of us, especially since the pandemic happened. Knowing when to kick back is as important as working your butt-off! We often rush to get where or what we want but I believe that there is a time and season for everything.
What does a successful woman mean to you?
I don’t see money as the only factor that contributes to success. Success to me is being responsible for and having the ability to take care of myself, my family, and the people around me. This includes taking care of my mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health, and fostering healthy and loving relationships.
Which animal best represents your working self?
My partner thinks that I’m an ant. Hardworking, a great team player and able to carry more than 10-20 times its body weight – in terms of responsibility.
Any advice for women working towards their dreams?
For one, don’t let the opinions of others deter you from your dreams. Seek advice from credible people who have walked the path ahead of you, be objective, and have confidence in your ability. Also, it pays to learn from the mistakes of others while forging your own path. As the saying goes, “There are many paths to the top of the mountain, but the view is always the same.”
Another advice: be a woman of strong values and always do good to others. Along the way, you may be tempted with offers that will cause you to consider forgoing your values just to reap the benefits. Don’t fall prey to greed at the expense of others.
What’s in your Tocco Toscano bag and what do you love about it?
My wallet, two phones (work and personal), tissue and a water bottle. I always get mocked for carrying big bags with barely anything in it. It was love at first sight because of the compartments that came with the bag. Its design is so specific to the type of person that will use it. Great thought behind the design and workmanship, I absolutely love it.
What’s your pick-me-up?
Alone in prayer. If you meant a drink, I really like my morning coffee. Skinny latte to be exact.
If you could be a superhero, what power would you possess?
To turn any kind of selfishness to love and generosity.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
One helluva fun and awesome mom to my kids, a devoted wife to an amazing man and still a child of God. I would still love to be helping people even if it goes beyond teaching singing. But honestly, anything can happen in 10 years. I will keep my plans fluid and open and leave my life in the good hands of our Creator.
A quote you live by?
Romans 12:12 - Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.