About Data Chord

1. To empower professionals worldwide with industry-relevant data science and cybersecurity training through globally accessible, certification-based programs designed for real-world application.

2. To help businesses unlock the full potential of their data by delivering innovative, scalable, and ethically-driven data science solutions that solve real problems across industries.

3. To bridge emerging markets and global industries by nurturing data talent, fostering digital resilience, and shaping future-ready professionals in an increasingly AI-driven world.

At Data Chord, we are built on a clear and compelling vision:

To deliver world-class training and consulting in data science, grounded in internationally respected pedagogies and powered by purposeful collaboration.

Our logo tells our story.

Each square represents a vital pillar of our ecosystem:

1. Management – ensuring seamless operations and strategic direction.
2. Advisors – guiding us with wisdom and expertise from across industries.
3. Clients and Trainees – the heart of what we do, who place their trust in us.
4. Partners – who help us amplify our reach and impact through collaboration.
    

The curved line connecting them symbolizes unity and trust. Though it doesn’t intersect any square directly, it draws them into a complete circle—representing the harmony we strive to create.

This is the essence of Data Chord: bringing people, purpose, and potential together to orchestrate a new era of excellence in data science. Together, we’re not just building skills—we’re composing the greatest data-driven masterpiece of our time.

Special thanks to Lancer Design Marketing Agency for their creative support and expert touch in refining the Data Chord logo. Their design sensibility helped us bring our brand story to life with clarity and elegance.

Mark Phooi is a trailblazing entrepreneur, educator, and thought leader in the design and creative industries across Asia. With an exceptional career that spans over three decades, Mark has consistently broken new ground in the fields of design education, brand consultancy, and entrepreneurship. His journey is a compelling narrative of resilience, creativity, and visionary leadership—transforming bold ideas into reality while nurturing generations of creative professionals.

Mark began his entrepreneurial journey in 1989 with just S$2,000 in capital and an unyielding drive to succeed. From this modest start, he founded Lancer Design, a small design studio that would eventually evolve into First Media Group—a regional powerhouse comprising multiple design agencies and educational institutions across Asia.

In 2006, Mark's passion for education and belief in the power of holistic learning led to the establishment of First Media Design School (FMDS) in Singapore. Under his leadership, FMDS developed and institutionalized the Four-Stage Designpreneurship Pedagogy, an original framework that blends multi-dimensional thinking, design thinking, and entrepreneurial strategy. The pedagogy draws from the Herrmann Brain Dominance Instrument (HBDI) to engage both the analytical and creative faculties of learners, nurturing what Mark calls "whole-brain thinkers". This unique model positions FMDS at the intersection of creativity, business, and innovation.

FMDS quickly gained recognition for its cutting-edge curriculum and commitment to educational excellence, becoming the 13th recipient of the prestigious four-year EduTrust certification awarded by the Singapore government—a mark of quality assurance in the private education sector.

Mark’s philosophy is encapsulated in his widely acclaimed book, Think Like a Sage, Work Like a Fool, Act Like a Criminal, which emphasizes the unconventional yet disciplined mindset required to thrive in today’s competitive world. He encourages learners and entrepreneurs to remain hungry, passionate, and fearless—values that have shaped his own entrepreneurial ethos.

Beyond his institutions, Mark continues to serve as a mentor, advisor, and keynote speaker, inspiring young creatives and entrepreneurs to adopt an interdisciplinary approach to success. He remains actively involved in steering strategic development and fostering global partnerships in education and business innovation. His work extends across Singapore, China, Vietnam, Indonesia, and other parts of Asia, where his influence has contributed to shaping national design curricula and startup ecosystems.

In recognition of his pioneering contributions, Mark has been invited to advise on curriculum boards, mentor start-ups, and contribute to policy-level discussions on the future of design education and the creative economy. He embodies a rare blend of creative passion, business acumen, and pedagogical depth, making him a formidable force in shaping the next generation of designpreneurs.

As an advisor to Data Chord, Mark Phooi brings not just a wealth of experience but also a spirit of innovation and cross-disciplinary thinking. His role will be instrumental in helping the organization strengthen its pedagogy, refine its learner engagement models, and scale its impact across new markets in Asia and beyond.