Nikki Phinyapincha, 36, is the founder of Transtalents Consulting Group, Thailand’s first diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) consulting firm driving LGBTQ+ economic empowerment and revolutionizing business equality under SDG framework.

New York/London/Bangkok, 9th November 2023: Transgender individuals in Southeast Asia face substantial challenges in securing equal employment and leadership roles. A 2018 survey by the World Bank & APTN revealed alarming figures: 60% of Malaysians, 77% of Thais, and 85% of Vietnamese transgender individuals experienced job rejection, discrimination, and harassment. They are mostly denied leadership promotions due to systemic barriers and damaging stereotypes. The 2021 study from Williams Institute at UCLA highlighted the severity of this inequality, with transgender individuals experiencing a 2x higher unemployment rate compared to cisgender peers, particularly during the pandemic. 

“After a promising interview with the HR Director for an internal promotion to the manager role, I was told that despite my qualifications, the company had no policy for appointing a transgender individual to the manager role. My credibility was questioned, and I was advised to seek opportunities in other sectors such beauty, media, or entertainment.” shared Nikki Phinyapincha, founder of Transtalents Consulting Group, Thailand’s first diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) consulting firm driving LGBTQ+ economic empowerment and revolutionizing business equality.

Founded in 2022, Transtalents Consulting Group has partnered with over 20 companies, including global corporations such as IBM, Warner Music Group, PepsiCo, mygwork, ZIM, Marriott International, San Diego Pride and more for DE&I educational programs and strategic communication consultancy. Among over 50 initiatives executed, Nikki launched the pioneering ASEAN Transgender Professional Leadership Program, a year-long initiative addressing ASEAN transgender professionals’ socio-economic inequities through mentorship and transformative seminar series, fostering inclusive policy, competency development and trans leadership representation awareness. The program was in partnership with YSEALI, Sasin School of Management, IBM and San Diego Pride and gained over 600 attendees across ASEAN and top media recognition reaching to over 33 million audience reaches.

“The call for systemic change in the organizations and society is my mission. People now seek genuine and meaningful change from their leaders, not superficial, inauthentic or tokenism activities. It’s time for data-driven concrete actions for sustainable and measurable results not PR buzz words. To be a truly diverse, inclusive, and sustainable organization, inclusive leaders should reframe their vision to advance their DE&I strategies that address specific issues with an intersectionality lens in order to improve internal organization and scale impacts to the broader business community, the systemic change must be intentional, intersectional and measurable in long-term including building a diverse pool of future leaders.” Nikki added.

In today’s global workforce, diversity and inclusivity are pivotal. They build customer trust, establish socially responsible businesses, mitigate legal risks and ultimately enhancing business and economic competitiveness. In the ASEAN region, LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and employees face substantial barriers, including socio-economic discrimination and exclusion, legal obstacles, limited resources, heightened mental health challenges, and constrained access to leadership opportunities to shape their own future. “This is not only hindering personal and professional growth but also robbing human capital of vital skills and knowledge essential for advancing regional economies and societies.” emphasized Nikki.

Nikki’s impact transcended her organization and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the community. As a force for “trans”formation in business sector, she has been recognised on the 2023 Outstanding Role Model 100 LGBTQ+ Future Leaders list. Compiled by INvolve and supported by YouTube, the DE&I consultancy and global network, the Outstanding Role Model List celebrates and showcases LGBTQ+ business leaders and allies who are breaking down barriers and creating more inclusive workplaces across the world. 

Founder and CEO of INvolve, Suki Sandhu OBE, says: “I’m so thrilled to be celebrating our 2023 Outstanding Role Models, a global group of trailblazing Executives, Future Leaders and Allies driving change for the LGBTQ+ community in business. All the individuals within these lists are championing inclusion and leveraging their experience and knowledge to drive impactful initiatives and strategic change within their organisations. It’s vital that LGBTQ+ individuals across the world can achieve career success, and these Role Models are essential drivers of change who are smashing barriers to progress.” 

Thai Dating Agency Interview with Khun Bee – Kulchulee Subsinudom Nylander, Founder and CEO of ‘Bangkok Matching’ – Thailand’s Leading and Longest-Running High-End Matchmaking Service Agency in Thailand.

Today, we had the pleasure of meeting with Khun Bee – Kulchulee Subsinudom Nylander, the Founder and CEO of Bangkok Matching. Khun Bee and her highly experienced matchmaker team have successfully matched over 9,000 couples and continue to do so over the last 18 years through her exclusive professional matchmaking service.

What inspired you to establish Dating Business in Thailand?

It all began with a pain point I noticed at various business networking events I attended. Many Singles at these events asked for my help to start conversations because they had no idea how to do it. After acting as an intermediary at numerous networking events, I observed that there were a significant number of single people who needed professional assistance to take the first step in getting to know others. This inspired me to start the professional matchmaking and dating service in Thailand.

Going back to 2004, I was still hesitant about the idea of starting this matchmaking business, as I wasn’t sure if it would work in Thailand. There were already many popular online dating websites and several social media platforms. Then, one day while on vacation at a beach in Thailand, I pondered what I might regret not doing before I die, and that’s when the matchmaking agency idea flashed back into my mind. After returning to Bangkok, I immediately started the company, beginning with the creation of ‘Bangkok Matching’ name cards.

I initially started the dating business with a ‘Speed Dating’ event and various other Dating Events such as “Singles Party” and “Dinner Date.” Attendees would purchase tickets to enter the event location and start socializing. While all the dating events turned out well, there were some challenges, like an imbalance in the number of male and female participants or last-minute ticket purchases, making it hard to confirm the total number of participants immediately. However, I later realized that the chances and success rate of meeting the right person through these dating events were limited, which led me to shift towards focusing on offering a matchmaking service. This approach proved to be more intriguing to singles seeking genuine love and connection.

Can you share with us how does the matchmaking work?

At Bangkok Matching, our matchmaking process involves a rigorous background check, similar to how banks screen their customers. We require essential documents such as an identity card or passport, work permit (if applicable), pay slips or income verification, bank statements, and, a divorce certificate (if applicable). This verification process ensures that all our clients are genuine about finding a true connection and are who they claim to be. We get to know who they are and the ideal person they are looking for as a partner.

Our Pricing and Matchmaking Fee Packages vary based on our clients’ quality requirements and preferences. Higher Quality matched required, higher fee.  As a result, many of our active members are entrepreneurs, medical doctors, and well-paid professionals. They often lead busy lives and find it challenging to meet people outside their usual social circles.  

Is there any obstacle in your opinion?

Certainly, we encounter numerous challenges along the way because we’re dealing with individuals, and it’s impossible to please everyone. However, when our clients go on a date, we gather feedback, and our matchmakers play a vital role in helping both parties understand each other.

For instance, recently there was a female customer unexpectedly ended contact with our male client, our male client was confused because he perceived nothing wrong between them. In this case, our matchmakers intervened and engaged with both parties to identify the root of the issue. It turned out to be miscommunication, and with our matchmaker’s feedback and guidance, they reconciled. They might not be a married couple today if left to navigate on their own.

Another case involves international male client who was not familiar with Thai culture. He asked Bangkok Matching to help in negotiating dowry with the bride-to-be’s family on behalf of the groom because he is a foreigner in Thailand and he has no one to turn to.  Bangkok Matching is more than just a matchmaking service; we are with our clients at every stage of their relationship journey.

Khun Bee – Kulchulee Subsinudom Nylander
Founder and CEO of ‘Bangkok Matching’

Professional matchmakers must possess sensitivity, kindness, and compassion in their interactions with clients. Our members are on a quest to find someone to love and grow old with, and the dating process can consume a significant amount of time and energy. As a result, they often seek assistance and comfort from our experts.

Is there any advice you would like to share with someone who finds it difficult to date?

Keeping an open mind is crucial. In certain cases, I advise our members to take the initiative as well. We are matchmakers, not magicians; we can’t create a relationship entirely on our own. I simply let them know that without their effort, they might find themselves continually renewing and paying for our matchmaking package.

For me, it’s essential that our clients achieve what they hope for. I take every opportunity to remind them, saying, ‘I see potential between you and this person. Why not give yourself a chance to get to know them? You can make a romantic decision later. There’s nothing to lose.

Judging people solely based on their profiles reduces the chance of meeting the right person. Some clients have subscribed to the unlimited dating plan but have not accepted any matches proposed by their matchmakers. In such cases, our matchmakers will bring this to the attention of our members and remind them to be open-minded, emphasizing that one should not judge a book solely by its cover. An A4-length profile cannot fully summarize a person. We always remind our members that everyone is worth getting to know. Even if it doesn’t lead to a romantic relationship, you might find friends and valuable business connections instead. So, even if things don’t go as planned, your social circle continues to grow. Getting to know someone has no downsides, and it changes us in unique ways.

Can you guarantee that everyone will get married after one package?

Our purpose at Bangkok Matching is to find the right person for our clients to establish a serious relationship, but the decision to marry and when is ultimately up to the couple. This may vary for each couple.

Our matchmaking service cannot solely rely on marriage as a measure of success, as it requires extensive follow-up and not all couples are seeking marriage as their goal at that time, it’s also depending on their age.  If they are still young, marriage might not be in their mind at that moment. The desire for marriage often depends on one’s age. To gauge our success rate, Bangkok Matching counts the number of couples who meet through our matchmaking service as an indicator.

At Bangkok Matching, we don’t maintain constant contact with our clients to avoid disturbing them once they’ve found their match. Occasionally, we hear from them, sharing news of upcoming marriages or expecting a baby. We always prioritize and respect our clients’ privacy.

In the broader context, people come to us seeking a serious relationship. They evaluate profiles, photos, and videos, and the rest involves the effort of both parties to maintain a conversation and make the relationship happen.

While the possibility of success is high, each relationship grows at its own pace. Some couples fall in love in just one day, while others date numerous times before deciding to pause their profiles with us and take a break from the dating game. It ultimately depends on the specific preferences they have in a partner.

Personally, when I was dating my now husband, I didn’t have any specification requirement when looking for my partner other than understanding, love, and care. I understand that not everyone shares the same perspective as mine, but I acknowledge that some qualifications can be specific, and it can be challenging to find everything in one person. For example, some individuals seek a business owner or an international graduate because they want someone who speaks fluent English. At the end of the day, I can only try to understand their preferences from their perspective, not enforce them.

At Bangkok Matching, we provide as much support as possible to our clients. We are there for them when they go through breakups or heartbreaks from dates or from relationships that didn’t work out. Sometimes, we even share their tears. In addition to offering strength, we provide comfort and instill hope for better, new love.”

Leveraging Previous Achievements to Excel as the Distinctive Sports Watch of the Era

C Thong Panich Company Limited, the authorized distributor for Frederique Constant watches in Thailand, led by its managing director Ms. Vipavan Mahadumrongkul ค่ะ, recently introduced the Highlife collection during the event titled “The World of Highlife: Revealing the Highlife Collection.” 

This collection builds upon the successful and distinctive sporty design of the Highlife model introduced in 1999, evolving it into a timepiece that truly captures the spirit of our era. The standout feature is the interchangeable watch strap, offering the wearer the convenience of effortlessly swapping straps to match any occasion, whether it calls for a simple, elegant, classic dress, or a sporty look on a laid-back day.

In this unveiling, Frederique Constant proudly presented the spotlight on five exceptional models from the Highlife collection, allowing watch enthusiasts to witness their brilliance. Adding to the excitement, the event featured an exclusive interview with Dr. Pramote Rienjaroensuk, the founder of IAMWATCH and Thailand’s foremost watch guru. Sririta Jensen Narongdej was a special guest who joined the conversation on stage during the launch event held at The St. Regis Hotel in Bangkok on October 10.

The Highlife collection, now the flagship of Frederique Constant, preserves the essence of the original 1999 model. This includes a design that exudes a sporty and luxurious aesthetic while remaining a Swiss timepiece of excellent value, perfectly suited for daily wear. The standout feature remains the interchangeable watch strap, allowing effortless transitions between leather, rubber, or stainless-steel straps without requiring any specialized tools.

In celebration of the 24th anniversary of the Highlife collection, Frederique Constant Thailand has organized an official launch, introducing five exceptional models:

Highlife Tourbillon Perpetual Calendar Manufacture 

With only 30 pieces crafted globally, with a singular piece allocated for Thailand, the elegant rose gold case encases the in-house FC-975 caliber. This intricate caliber comprises 188 mechanical components, seamlessly handling both timekeeping and perpetual calendar functions, displaying days, months, and leap years. The dial unveils a captivating and complex Tourbillon mechanism showcased at the 6 o’clock position. It is complemented by an exquisite navy blue alligator leather strap and an additional navy blue rubber strap for versatile styling options.

Highlife Worldtimer Manufacture 

Another all-time favorite, flawlessly represented within the Highlife collection, boasts the in-house FC-718 caliber with the Worldtimer function. This remarkable feature allows for the display of time in multiple time zones across the globe. The Worldtimer scale showcases the names of 24 cities from around the world, along with a 24-hour time format that can be effortlessly adjusted using a single crown. The dial is intricately engraved with a distinctive globe pattern, adding a unique touch of global charm. For the convenience of travelers, it includes both a leather and rubber strap, allowing for effortless customization to suit any destination or circumstance.

Highlife Perpetual Calendar Manufacture 

The standout feature of this model is its groundbreaking dark blue-grey dial, the trendiest hue in contemporary watchmaking, and a symbol of color harmony inspired by the sea, sky, and outer space. What’s more, it cleverly consolidates the date, month, and leap year indicators onto a single dial. To enhance its sporty appeal, it offers the option of a stainless steel and rubber strap. Alternatively, for a classic touch, wearers can opt for a distinctive blue leather strap to tailor their look.

Highlife Heart Beat Automatic 

Unveiled within a 41 mm stainless steel and rose gold plated case, the dial is adorned with a globe pattern, symbolizing the circle of life’s harmony and beauty. The Cal.FC-310 automatic caliber powers this timepiece, with a prominent window positioned just below the 12 o’clock mark, showcasing the inner workings of the movement, aptly earning the model its name ‘Heartbeat.’ It offers a stainless-steel bracelet option, meticulously designed to complement the case’s aesthetics. Alternatively, wearers have the flexibility to express their personality with the leather or rubber strap that allows for a quick and easy change to suit their preferences.

Highlife Ladies Automatic Sparkling 

To delight female watch enthusiasts, it has seamlessly blended the Highlife’s original design with a contemporary touch, uniting craftsmanship and style. This creation exudes elegance and the confidence of today’s modern women. The stunning blue and cosmic blue dial is adorned with glistening diamonds on both the dial and bezel, drawing inspiration from the brilliant night sky, where the stars twinkle with radiant light. 

The model houses the automatic FC-303 caliber, and its transparent back cover allows for a captivating view of the complicated inner workings of the mechanism. This timepiece can be effortlessly paired with a white rubber strap or a highly versatile stainless-steel band, enabling modern women to express their unique style.

Ms.Vipavan Mahadumrongkul  managing director of C Thong Panich Company Limited, expressed, “This marks the first official launch of the Highlife models in Thailand. These models hold special significance as they represent a reimagination of the initial Highlife watch design, dating back to 1999 and conceptualized by Peter Stas, one of the founders of Frederique Constant. They have evolved into a sporty design that encompasses all outstanding models. These models come with a convenient interchangeable strap, allowing wearers to easily switch the strap to match their personal style. It’s another flagship model by Frederique Constant that has gained a positive market response worldwide.”

“During this launch event, we proudly showcased exceptional models from the 2023 Highlife collection for watch enthusiasts to admire. One such remarkable timepiece is the Highlife Tourbillon Perpetual Calendar Manufacture, of which there is only one available in Thailand,” said Vipavan .

Frederique Constant, a Swiss luxury watch brand, was established in 1988, with its factory based in Geneva, Switzerland. The brand’s core mission is to design, produce, and assemble timepieces by skilled watchmakers who specialize in crafting intricate and uniquely timeless watches. The watch brand’s primary intention revolves around providing people with the opportunity to own exceptional Swiss watches at an accessible price point.

Currently, Frederique Constant has a presence in over 3,000 retail locations spanning 120 countries worldwide. In 2016, the Frederique Constant Group, comprising Frederique Constant, Alpina Watches, and Ateliers deMonaco, entered a partnership with Citizen, a renowned Japanese watch brand. Their joint effort is to collaborate in the development and production of timepieces that are globally recognized.