Me and My Money: British-born osteopath relocated to Singapore with $2,000 and no safety net

British-born osteopath Martin John arrived in Singapore in 2003 with just $2,000 and no safety net. After working various jobs for six years, he established Orchard Health Clinic in 2009. The clinic now serves more than 10,000 clients annually.

John, who holds an osteopathy degree from the British School of Osteopathy and a master’s in business administration from Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge, said he “hit a ceiling back home” due to high taxes, student loans, and a culture that “looks down on ambition.” He wanted to experience different perspectives and found Singapore’s environment encouraging for entrepreneurs.

Early in his practice, a patient offered $100,000 to invest in the clinic. After discussing it with his wife, they declined, choosing instead to build the business independently. She believed in him more than he believed in himself and was confident they could succeed on their own.