From navigating pregnancy later in life to juggling businesses and young children, Singaporean entrepreneur Jackie Sim shares her honest take on motherhood at 40, resilience after miscarriages, and raising a family in Bangkok.
Jackie Sim is a Singaporean entrepreneur who has been living in Bangkok for over 15 years with businesses in the restaurant and bar industry (The Photobooth, #FindTheLockerRoom, Beer Pradith and more bars and restaurants), and a mother of two who welcomed her children at 40 and 42. Now raising her family in Bangkok, she speaks about late motherhood, resilience after loss, balancing business with parenting, and what it means to build a full, connected life across borders to her Singaporean roots, cultures and seasons of womanhood.
What was your journey to motherhood at 40 like, and what were the biggest misconceptions you encountered?
My journey to motherhood at 40 was undeniably challenging, often overshadowed by the stigma of being labeled as a “geriatric” pregnancy. It’s a term that can make you feel fragile when you actually need to feel your strongest. I initially underestimated the challenges I would face, both mentally and physically. The labels and the higher-risk classification had their own weight.
Especially after experiencing two miscarriages, which are more common than I previously realised, yet seldom discussed openly.
But 40 isn’t too late – just a different season. Yes, there are undeniable risks and facts about the decline in egg viability after 35, but with greater self-awareness and modern medical support, motherhood later in life is absolutely possible and deeply rewarding.
How did becoming a mum later in life shape your perspective on parenting and priorities?
Becoming a mother later in life has deepened my appreciation for the little moments that truly matter. With more life experience and the challenges I faced during pregnancy, I prioritise my roles as a mother and the overall journey in ways I might not have done as a younger parent. FOMO has significantly lessened, granting me the clarity to fully savour the slow, messy moments with a level of patience and clarity I’m not sure I would have had in my 20s.
Do you feel more confident becoming a parent at this stage in life compared to if you were younger?
Absolutely! Though doubts may still arise, my accumulated experience and resilience empower me in ways I never expected. I feel much more equipped to navigate the multifaceted challenges of parenthood today than I would have years ago. On those days when I feel like I have no idea what I’m doing (which happens to every mum!), I try to stay calm and know that ‘this too shall pass.’ That perspective is a gift that definitely comes with age.
What advice would you give to women who are thinking about having a child after 35 or 40?
Educate yourself thoroughly about the journey ahead. It’s essential to prioritise your health and fitness, and don’t hesitate to consider options like egg freezing if it fits your plans. Most importantly, remember that age is merely a number; what truly counts is your readiness and the support system you create around you.
How do you stay connected to Singaporean roots while raising a child abroad?
I prioritise staying connected with family and friends in Singapore through regular FaceTime calls, which help my children bond with their relatives. But food is our true universal language. My brand, Oh Jackie!, began as a passion project during the Covid lockdowns, a way to find comfort by recreating the Singaporean flavours I missed. Today, it allows my children and the Bangkok community to experience heritage dishes like Nasi Lemak, Popiah and Peranakan kueh, and to stay connected to our traditions, especially during celebrations like National Day.
What do you love most about raising your child in Bangkok, and what do you find most challenging?
The rich vibrancy and diversity surrounding us. My kids are exposed to a multitude of cultures and languages here in Bangkok. There are numerous engaging activities and welcoming playgrounds, plus the kindness of the Thai people enhances our experience. The pollution can be a challenge in some months in Bangkok, and I believe infrastructure improvements would significantly enhance the quality of life here.
How have you navigated childcare, schools, and community as an expat parent in Thailand?
I’m truly grateful for my support system. While I may not be the most active in every parent-focused group, having access to local and expat communities has been a lifesaver. Whether it’s a quick message to a mums WhatsApp group chat to ask for a doctor’s recommendation or a casual chat with other parents, that shared support and practical advice makes navigating life in Thailand far more manageable.
As a business owner, how do you balance motherhood with running a company day-to-day?
I’m fortunate to have a supportive team that gives me flexibility, though I’m still navigating the balance with two children. The restaurant and bar industry is high-pressure and always on, and while my team allows me to manage operations remotely, the mental load is real. I rely on technology to stay connected, but I’ve also learnt to accept that some days are about survival. That support gives me the space to focus on my family when they need me most.
How has motherhood at 40 influenced your sense of identity, both as a woman and as an entrepreneur?
Motherhood has profoundly enriched my identity and reshaped my perspective. Seeing the world through my children’s eyes has inspired new ideas in my entrepreneurial journey and pushed me to become more adaptable. In many ways, I’m less afraid of business risks now. After navigating a high-risk pregnancy, I feel more resilient and open to new challenges, both personally and professionally.
What would you say to other mums considering starting a business while raising young children?
I wholeheartedly encourage them to go for it! There is a unique power in pursuing a passion while raising a family. It shows your children that you can be multiple things at once: a nurturer, a leader, and a dreamer. It’s a juggle, and some days the balls will drop, but the fulfillment of building something of your own is worth every bit of the struggle.
What are your favourite kid-friendly places, activities, or routines as a family in Bangkok?
We have annual passes for Safari World and Siam Ocean World, which are always a hit. For burning off energy, we are regulars at StrongKiddo and HarborLand. One of our favorite weekly routines is visiting the Friday night market at Srinakharinwirot University (SWU Night Market) – it’s a wonderful, authentic spot to soak up the local atmosphere and grab some local treats. And if the weather is good, we sometimes visit the Benchakitti Park for a bit of nature.
