Amanda Cham is the Associate Director of Strategic Operations at US venture capital firm 500 Global for its 500 Southeast Asia family of funds.

👋🏼 How would you explain your job to someone outside tech?

I manage 500 Global's funds across Southeast Asia, lead strategic initiatives, negotiate investment deals, and oversee all aspects of fund operations.

🧐 What's something about you or your job that would surprise us?

Writing a cheque to a portfolio company is not as easy and quick as it seems, as there are many steps (e.g., due diligence, deal evaluation, deal documents, etc.) involved.

Nonetheless, we always take pride in being the fastest VC to write a cheque to our portfolio companies. Interested to know our record? Come chat with us!

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🏆 What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

There are so many! But here are my top 3: witnessed the IPOs of Bukalapak, Grab and Prenetics; set up and closed two funds in two years; and, in general, supporting founders in every way I can.

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🔍 What's a startup trend or space you're watching this year?‍

It's definitely observing how tech companies are persevering and performing in the current macroeconomic environment. The political, economic and social headwinds we're facing globally will have both positive and negative impacts on startups in Southeast Asia.

While no company can ever be fully prepared to navigate the downturn, I believe strong companies are born and made in times like these.

💼 What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry?

Being adaptable and intellectually curious will go a long way because learning is the only constant in this industry.

🗣 What's one thing you can keep talking about for hours?

Entrepreneurship, startup deals, Web3 and listening to the life stories of others.

🎥 What's your favorite movie/TV show?

Criminal Minds

🍨 What's your go-to ice cream flavor?‍

Matcha!