Entrepreneur does his part to help needy kidney patients

Mr Christopher Tan, 39, did not let his lack of education hamper him. Instead, it served as a motivating factor to propel him forward in his career. He single-handedly set up Smartec, a precision engineering company which specialises in designing, making and refurbishing components used in the oil and gas industry.

The entrepreneur said the idea of starting his own company was conceived when he encountered rejections in his job applications to multinational companies. However, he did not give up. He firmly believed that if he persevered and worked hard, he will make a name for himself one day. He built up the client base and gradually expanded Smartec from a three-man operation to a 50-member team.



Mr Tan also believes in extending a helping hand to the less fortunate in whatever ways he can. Understanding that kidney patients require long-term care which can be very costly, he joined NKF’s LifeDrops Programme, a donation scheme where donors can make a small donation every month through inter Bank GIRO or credit card.

He found the programme so meaningful that he encouraged Smartec staff to join him. Today, 70% of his staff, from technicians to senior management, are LifeDrops donors. Mr Tan is also exploring more avenues where he can help NKF patients.