Stephanie Tu, the Vice President of the Attractions, Resorts & Entertainment Union (AREU), has come a full circle at The British Club.
Her foray into the attractions, resorts and entertainment sector began in 1998, following a career pivot from the fast food industry. Not one to let the world deny her growth, she made several pivots after, including exploring a career in sales, within the corporate sector, and even part-time opportunities. It wasn’t until 2005 that she came back to the country club.
Today, Stephanie is an assistant manager at the Scores Sports Bar & Restaurant, one of four dining establishments within the country club, where she leads the front of house and other kitchen ops.
Over lunchtime, AREU’s content team caught up with Stephanie, as she recounted her journey growing with the union. Read the full interview below.
Hello Stephanie, how are you doing today?
Stephanie Tu: I have been good. Thanks for having me!
How long has it been since you joined AREU?
ST: It’s been quite some time. I think I joined AREU since it was founded in 2010.
What’s the story here: how did you get acquainted with the union?
ST: I was formerly from the Food, Drinks, and Allied Worker Union, but moved to AREU when it was formed. So, you could say I have been in the union scene for quite a while now.
Why did you join the union in the first place?
ST: I wanted to help people. Many years ago, I used to work at The British Club but explored other options along the way. I saw many workers and colleagues needing help, as well as witnessed those who had benefited from the support rendered by the unions. I remember thinking about how I could impact lives by helping folks from different backgrounds—whether it be explaining certain employment policies, resolving disputes, or more.
What do you enjoy most as a union leader?
ST: Sometimes, I find joy in guiding my colleagues and fellow workers to the right upskilling platforms. I have worked with Human Resources and Management teams many times, and by liaising with them, I mitigated issues.
So, like a bridge between the two bodies?
ST: Like a bridge. I have since gone a full circle, and now I am back with The British Club.
Why did you come back?
ST: The people. The members here are really friendly, and there is a sense of comfort and familiarity. We know them by name, their schedules, and their preferences; they’d also know ours.
Was this your first job?
ST: I used to work in the fast food industry. The British Club was my second job; I joined in 1998. But then I had some career pivots in between to learn new things. I have since worked in sales, worked for corporations, and even worked part-time. It wasn’t until 2005 that I came back to The British Club.
What are you busy with these days?
ST: The Club has been organising several events and it has been fun helping out and meeting so many familiar faces.
What do you do in your free time then?
ST: I have been self-studying a little. Lately, I have been into upgrading and learning new tech skills. However, I am keen to continue pursuing my barista course.
What are some tips for new union members?
ST: You could say we are in the business of change-making. And in this business, we need to be trained right, guided well and carefully. My advice would be to attend the training and Industry Relations courses. You’ll learn many things, including negotiation and scenario-based simulations. These are helpful assets that prepare you to become the bridge between the workers and employers.
To conclude, what’s the biggest takeaway from AREU?
ST: So many things but ever since I became an EXCO member I had a deeper understanding of the hard work that goes behind the scenes. I also learned what’s needed on the ground and am able to organise events for the workers and engage them.
Do members look forward to such gatherings?
ST: Always.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
About AREU
AREU is one of the 58 affiliated unions of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC). Formed in 2010, AREU is a progressive union that serves the workers in the attractions, resorts and entertainment sector in Singapore.
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