Dr. Mercy Li, a former banker from Singapore with a PhD in business and law from the University of London, decided to leave her corporate position at Citibank to pursue an unexpected career: modeling.
+ Click here to watch some videos of Dr. Mercy Li
At 33, Mercy was working as a Public Relations Manager at Citibank when her life changed drastically. While shopping at a lingerie boutique, she was approached by a modeling agency scout who saw great potential in her. In an interview with the Daily Star, Mercy explained that her bold fashion choices had already caused some friction in the workplace, where she was repeatedly called to HR due to her revealing outfits, which attracted unwanted attention from colleagues and superiors.
“I often attract unwanted attention from my bosses, clients, and colleagues,” Mercy said. “It’s not uncommon to be called by HR because of my choice of clothing.” However, shortly after, she decided to swap corporate formal attire for an even bolder lifestyle.
Mercy revealed that after being discovered by a scout from OC Modelling, she accepted the invitation to become a model, adopting the stage name “Dr. Mercy Li.” Since then, she has worked as a freelancer and even posed for magazines like FHM Australia.
Her new career, however, remains a secret from her parents. Mercy explained that her family, who holds conservative values, knows nothing about her current profession. “Fortunately, my parents are not very tech-savvy and haven’t discovered anything about my modeling work,” she said. “I worry that, due to the conservative views in our Asian culture, they might disown me if they find out.”
Despite concerns about her family’s reaction, Mercy has embraced her new lifestyle and acknowledged that her “curvy figure and advanced education” have led to several unusual offers, including large sums of money from high-profile men for meetings.
While she doesn’t miss the corporate routine, Mercy admits that her new career has its challenges. “Models face unrealistic beauty standards, exploitation, lack of diversity, and physical demands that can impact mental and physical health,” she explained. However, she concludes by believing in the importance of “empowering others, embracing the body, and celebrating love.”
Photos and videos: TikTok @dr.mercy.li. Source: Daily Star. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.