For our 2nd
#PayPalChats feature and to celebrate Father’s Day, we went in search of the main man at PayPal Southeast Asia (SEA), Rahul Shinghal - General Manager for the region.
Rahul is a technology enthusiast who has worked in the payments and mobile industry for 15 years now. He believes that e-commerce and payment technologies like PayPal are transforming how business is done in SEA by empowering merchants and giving them greater access to the global marketplace. At PayPal, Rahul is passionate about using the power of technology to drive the growth of businesses in the region.
Behind the boss and businessman lies a man who is devoted to his family. Rahul is a father of two beautiful girls, and husband of Megha, his wife of 10 years. He jokes about his passion for losing weight (yes, you heard right!), but it’s all in the name of being healthy so he can take better care of his family. Who better to speak with as we celebrate Father’s Day?
1.Rahul, tell us about your kids
I have two. Riya is five years old and Avya is one year old.
2.What’s your favourite part about being a father?
At this age, they are still learning new things every day and the unadulterated joy of seeing my kids growing up is one of the most satisfying parts of my life.
3.What is one thing you wish you had known before becoming a father?
That it would be this satisfying to be a dad. I wouldn’t have worried so much when my wife was expecting if I had known!
4.Tell us about three apps you absolutely cannot live without?
- Nike Running App. So I can stay fit. You need to be healthy to take care of your kids.
- Lazada. So I can buy stuff for my kids.
- YouTube. So my wife and I can eat in peace when we go out we go out as a family.
5.How do you juggle work and being a father?
There’s no simple answer for this. I try to be present when I am at home, which means not checking my emails at home till my kids are asleep. I also try to do at least two activities with my kids on weekends.
6.Elsa or Anna?
Elsa, because she is independent, strong and mature!
7.What advice do you have for fathers-to-be?
Get fit before your baby arrives… it will be a much more satisfying experience.
8.What do you wish for your kids?
I wish for them to be strong, independent, articulate, confident and have the ability to follow their hearts and dreams .. for them not to be weighed down by society's expectations; and above all, be good human beings. Sound advice from a great guy and even better father.
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with us Rahul, and we wish you a Happy Father’s Day!
From all of us at PayPal, Have a wonderful day with your dad!