Issue 08: Jen Su, Fashionista with a Heart
Jen Su, Fashionista with a Heart
By Kimberley Kleczka
In the glittering world of television and entertainment, there’s one name that shines brighter than most – Jen Su. Jen is a TV Host and Style/Entertainment Reporter, a mom of two, a musician, and quirky fashionista. With an effervescent personality in keeping with her left-field fashion sense, Jen has taken the entertainment industry by storm as a fashionista extraordinaire. Because her style isn’t just a reflection of the latest trends; it’s a canvas for her boundless creativity, fearlessness and kindness.
Jen Su is a breath of fresh air in an industry where ego can often overshadow compassion. She’s a philanthropist with a global perspective. From supporting local charities to international aid efforts, Jen Su’s heart is as big as her personality.
Kimberley Kleczka had the pleasure of speaking with the talented Jen Su about her life in the public eye.
Jen, tell us how you broke into the world of fashion and television hosting, and what inspired you?
When I was eighteen, I entered a Taiwan-Idol style TV singing contest, which landed me a record contract. While touring, I met the President of China TV, who invited me to be a presenter for their TV network. I have lived in Bangkok, Hong Kong, South Africa and Shanghai, working in TV and fashion.
I was inspired by the exquisite silk prints of Thai designer Nagara Sambandaraksa. I was also inspired by my Mom’s silk embroidered fabric and her Chinese traditional qipao dresses.
What is your typical day like?
4:30 am – wake up and get to the airport;
Arrive by noon — check into the hotel, do hair and makeup, iron dresses and prepare scripts.
4pm — Arrive at press check in for the red carpet, set up, and interview on the press line ;
8pm — Finish the red carpet and move on to the awards ceremony, film, or fashion show;
Midnight— Finish the show and return to the hotel.
Midnight-4am — Download and transcribe interviews, photos, and edit videos.
Nap for 30 mins to 2 hours.
Wake up at 4:30am to get to the airport and fly to a new city, country, new event, prepare for interviews, and do it again. No sleep!
Can you share some of your favourite moments or interviews from your career?
Fat Joe was one of my favourite interviews, during the BET Hip Hop Awards. I loved his passion and his amazing sneaker collection — he hosted this year and was fantastic.
I also loved the Barbie World Premiere where I had the opportunity to chat with Margot Robbie, Dua Lipa, Kate McKinnon, and director Greta Gerwig. I’m thrilled that the movie was such a hit, and as a Board Director of the Philadelphia Film Society, it’s wonderful to see people packing the theatres again.
Meeting Eva Longoria, Austin Butler, Baz Luhrmann, and Michelle Yeoh was also a highlight at the Palm Springs Film Festival this year.
And Stella McCartney at Paris Fashion Week was truly amazing!
How do you stay updated with the latest fashion trends and industry news?
I’m an avid reader so I read all of the online fashion news including Vogue, WWD, CFDA, Fashion Bomb Daily, Business of Fashion, and Elle.
I also receive press alerts from all the fashion weeks worldwide including New York, London, Milan, Paris, Tokyo, Shanghai, and Australia.
Can you share one of your most memorable experiences from working in a foreign country?
I was one of nine presenters and the only Asian on stage hosting the South African Music Awards in 2012. In addition to presenting various award categories, I was part of a dramatic skit in the show, where I had to sing opera at the top of my lungs… the audience went wild!
What are some unique cultural insights that have enhanced your work in hosting and storytelling?
Living and working in Asia really opened my eyes. Whether it is respect for the Thai Royal Family, bowing in Japan, Chinese feng shui (geomancy) and customs — there are so many approaches and nuances across Asia.
Living and working from Asia to Africa to America has given me the opportunity to immerse myself in their cultures, styles, looks — and it’s really been quite a journey. Living and breathing the same air has helped me to understand what is acceptable and what is culturally inappropriate.
Can you tell us about an unexpected situation you’ve faced while hosting in a foreign country and how you handled it?
During my time in Shanghai and South Africa, my son, then thirteen, had to undergo chemotherapy and treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia T-Cell and Avascular Necrosis. It came on suddenly and we had to airlift him immediately to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. It was a hugely stressful time and I’ll always be grateful to the incredible team of doctors and nurses who saved his life.
What advice do you have for aspiring hosts who want to work internationally and connect with diverse audiences?
Apply for credentials way in advance, especially for the international events; check on certifications, visas, passports, and be meticulous about dressing up.
Try to research different and unique angles for your story. For example, British Airways recently launched their new collection of flight attendant uniforms, created by British-Ghanaian designer Ozwald Boateng. You could approach the story from several interesting angles, combining business, culture, fashion, sustainability etc.
In an industry known for its challenges and competitiveness, what advice do you have for aspiring fashion/entertainment professionals trying to break through?
Sort out your sponsors and offer something niche that no one else has— make yourself unique. And dress fabulous!
Are there any traditions you’ve found particularly fascinating and have incorporated into your shows?
I love the Asian graces…whether it’s watching people bow, or putting their hands together to “wai” in a Thai greeting— it’s beautiful to watch and is very zen. It’s always good to have a combination of being reserved and genuine in whatever you pursue.
In your opinion, what is the role of a host in bridging cultural gaps and fostering cross-cultural understanding?
It’s absolutely necessary for a host should always be informed, alert, and immediately smooth out any misunderstandings that may arise.
Could you share an interesting behind-the-scenes story for our readers?
On my most recent trip to LA, my girlfriends and I were waiting for a ride to dinner, when we ran into (Duchess of Sussex) Meghan Markle. We began chatting with her and asked to take a selfie.
As I often take photos with celebs, I didn’t think it out of the ordinary to post her photo with us. Needless to say, the on IG went viral, and the next morning I woke up to my selfie with Meghan on every media outlet from the Daily Mail to People Magazine. And then reposted to hundreds of news sites around the world.
How do you stay motivated and maintain a positive mindset when facing setbacks or criticism?
That’s happening right now with the Meghan Markle selfie. It’s sad how quickly people rush to judgement, spreading false information and alternative facts. Then the rest gang up to weigh in and get in on the “cancel culture”. I find myself laughing at some of the comments and take a humorous approach to my replies.
I write down the 5 things I’m most grateful for, and look forward to tomorrow being a new day.
Can you describe a project or collaboration that you’re particularly proud of and how it reflects your creative vision and values?
The Main Line Today Fashion Show for CHOP that I hosted in August of this year, was a fabulous collaboration. I worked with designers Nancy Volpe Beringer, Conrad Booker, Dell Scott, Paper Shaper by Julie, Imperial Legacy and Wear To Wall, promoting Philly Fashion to benefit the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
How do you balance the demands of your career with self-care and personal well-being? Any tips for finding that equilibrium?
Make time for massage, pampering, and relaxation every so often.
Are there any books, films, or experiences that have significantly influenced your creativity and perspective?
I attended the Vogue Met Gala reception at the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, where there was a full Spring 2023 exhibition of 150 pieces by Karl Lagerfeld from the 1950’s to 2019. I absolutely loved all the textures, cuts and designs; so inspired by his intricate detail.
What message or legacy do you want to leave behind?
Stay genuine, Stay unique.
I hope that people can give back in whatever they do. Find a way to help the community.
My mantra is: Make it Happen…with a difference!
