A Love for Life

LAURA YATES arrived in Singapore with her husband Steve and three golden retrievers. Five and a half years later, they've settled in well — and Laura has rediscovered her joy for life. She shares how the connections she's made here have helped her professionally.

- BY PATRICEA CHOW

Where are you from originally and what do you miss about it?

I'm from South Africa. I grew up on an avocado farm but don't eat avocados! I miss the wide open spaces, bright blue skies and the freedom for my dog to explore freely off lead.

What led you to Singapore?

My husband started a digital transformation and strategy consultancy here, which is why we came. We lived in Chester and London in our late 20s, but mostly in Johannesburg and then Melbourne for six months, just before Singapore.

What has kept you here?

The diverse melting pot of people. I love the conversations with people from all walks of life and all corners of the globe. Everyone has an interesting story to tell.

It's also easy to make friends here and my business has grown very organically because of this.

Speaking of which, tell us a bit about your business.

I started my career as a Chartered Accountant, but in 2016 I realised spreadsheets weren't where my spirit wanted to dance. After navigating my own mental health challenges, I found myself returning repeatedly to the things that made me feel truly alive - movement, meditation and the quiet wisdom of nature. That journey became The Hummingbird Life, a playful yet deeply grounded space where people can reconnect with their inner spark. I help people access spirituality in simple, everyday ways - through conversations with nature, joyful dancing in the outdoors, heart-opening cacao ceremonies, women's circles, facilitator trainings and soulful community gatherings.