A Journey From Flight to Food

For over 30 years, Masita Ghani soared through the skies as a dedicated flight attendant for Singapore Airlines (SIA), even gracing a calendar in her iconic sarong kebaya batik uniform. Fast forward to today, at 56, she has traded in her uniform for a hawker apron, serving up delicious dishes at the Aliff Nasi Lemak stall in Serangoon Gardens Market.

Challenging Perceptions

Leaving behind a prestigious career for the bustling world of hawker food raised eyebrows among her friends. "Many said, 'What a waste! You worked at SQ... why would you want to be a hawker?'" Masita recalls, reflecting on their skepticism.

Supportive Roots

Despite the doubts, her decision was solidified through the unwavering support of her family. Masita remembers a pivotal conversation with her late father, who challenged her aspirations. "Do you think you can succeed?" he asked, spurring her forward.

Balancing Dreams and Family

Masita's leap into the hawker scene was driven by a heartfelt desire to dedicate more time to her only child, then in Primary 1. "I wanted to be present for my child's upbringing. Working long hours as a flight attendant meant less time at home," she explains.

Skills from the Skies

Her extensive experience in customer service proved invaluable in her new venture. "The skills I gained at SIA helped me connect with my customers at the stall. Building relationships is key," she says with a smile.

Future Aspirations

Now, after a decade of serving food, Masita has her eyes set on opening a quaint cafe offering local delights such as nasi lemak, mee rebus, and goreng pisang, all while keeping the flavors genuine. "This is all for my child's future. I want them to have a better life than I did," she emphasizes.

A Lesson in Ambition

Masita's journey is a testament to the power of ambition and hard work. "If you want something, you have to be ambitious. If you don’t put in the effort, nothing will happen. So, work hard and pursue your dreams!" she advises, inspiring others to follow their passions.