Sports has always been a big deal for Malaysians, whether it’s football or badminton, we’re all in! But turning a passion for sports into a reality requires more than just love for the game as it takes hard work and dedication.
Toh Jern Yoong (Jern Yong) shared his inspiring journey with WORLD OF BUZZ, revealing how he turned his dream into reality and found success as a Creative Video Project Manager for the University of South Carolina Football team.
Malaysia represent!
Born and raised in Malaysia, Jern’s journey began with his love for sports, which started when he was just 7 and continued until he was 16.
He represented Kuala Lumpur in badminton from 2014 to 2016 and is a passionate Liverpool supporter who loves nasi lemak. In 2019, Jern moved to the US to pursue a degree in sports business management at Cedarville University in Ohio.
Now, he’s a professional sports filmmaker and storyteller, chasing his dreams in collegiate sports in the USA.
He switched his focus to sports marketing and branding
During the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021, he discovered a passion for videography and photography, focusing on National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) college sports.
He then shifted his focus from sports management to sports marketing and branding.
“I graduated with my degree and decided to stay on for a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in leadership and management while working with the Campbell University football team, where we have around 7,500 fans on game days.”
He had the opportunity to work on the media staff for the Liverpool vs. Manchester United game
Post MBA, Jern is now living his dream working and managing creative video projects for the University of South Carolina football team with over 85,000 fans every game day!
“I had the opportunity to work at the Rivals in Red 2024 Liverpool vs Man United game that happened (on 3rd August 2024) at Williams Brice Stadium which is our football stadium, as a media staff for a full circle moment.”
When asked for advice for students aspiring to follow in his footsteps, he said,
“Keep pursuing your dreams and maintain a strong work ethic! Stay focused, work smart, and make sure not to let anyone take advantage of you. At the same time, be open to learning and growing in your field.”
It’s amazing to see Malaysians making waves in their fields! For additional info on Jern Yong’s impressive work, feel free to explore his social media profile, @ernest_visuals, and portfolio.
Also read: Inspiring M’sian TVET Graduate Now Works in America & Honoured with Special Award by Company
This post first appeared on WORLD OF BUZZ.