Sheila Ye
Co-Owner/Sales Manager, SmartSpace Workplace Solutions Ltd
Bachelor of Design in Spatial Design
She is proud of creating a business and a brand around inspiring workplaces, says Sheila Ye who co-owns SmartSpace Workplace Solutions Ltd, which has quickly become a market leader in technology-based and agile office furniture.
“Building a company takes a lot of hard work, dedication, core values and an overarching sense to do excellent work. I’ve been able to create a magnificent career and reputation in the industry by building strong relationships and being the best at what I do. Every day is a challenge, dynamic and moves at such a fast pace. Being an entrepreneur, while managing my passion for design and spaces within a business, is an extremely challenging task, but I’ve learnt to be true to who I am, my values and my purpose to drive change and innovation in the design and property industry.”
Since starting SmartSpace Workplace Solutions Ltd in 2012, Sheila has had a number of career achievements she is particularly proud of.
“I love bringing the best projects to life, with our clients, staff, suppliers, manufacturing team, delivery and installation teams, and the overall design community. I’m proud of being nominated as a young leader in our industry and enjoy now helping the next generation of leaders who are coming into the workforce. I’ve also enjoyed getting to speak at some amazing workplace events, creating events around health and wellbeing in the workplace, and being a change maker. I’m loud and proud about my achievements; in a society and culture where success doesn’t look like me, I have to be the voice for the voiceless.”
Discovering a passion for furniture
For Sheila, the very first step towards the career she loves so much was enrolling in AUT’s Bachelor of Design in Spatial Design and she still has fond memories of her time at university.
“I decided to study spatial design because I wanted to explore my creativity and love of interior design, and to create beautiful and engaging spaces. The highlight for me were any courses where I got to use my hands and work on practical projects.”
Her time at AUT also helped her discover her passion for furniture making.
“I made furniture for the student exhibition in my final year and that is where I realised my passion for furniture making. This was a lightbulb moment for me. I realised I love practical solutions, designing around products, creating pieces that are fit for purpose and change how people work. I recognised that future has to focus on people and creating places people want to be.”
Advice for other students
Sheila, who graduated from AUT in 2010, has some great advice for other students.
“My advice is to give everything a go! Be proactive, put yourself out there, ask lots of questions, get involved in events, networks and communities where you want to learn from. Observe, take notes, learn the art of communication and dealing with all types of people.”
Don’t worry too much about finding your path, she adds.
“Have fun, be personable and when you find something you love, the passion and purpose will take care of itself. How you do anything is how you do everything.”
