Beyond the Arena: Deborah Rowe

Deborah Rowe Combines Passion & Sport, To Chart Her Own Path In The World Of PR

Deborah Rowe working at a media centre during an event in 2022. Photo Credit : Deborah Rowe

For over a decade, Deborah Rowe has made her mark in the sports public relations (PR) scene, both locally and abroad. Since her debut in 2013, she has proudly owned a boutique PR agency. At 33, she is focused on creating sports events tailored to engage Singapore fans and the community.

Deborah’s passion for sport began at 13, competing in netball during her first year at St. Anthony's Canossian Secondary School. Her dedication led to a national squad call-up, where she played in the Goal Attack (GA) position for 10 seasons in the Netball Super League.

Reflecting on her journey, Deborah shares, "My main takeaway from my days competing is the importance of hard work and discipline. Training and competing at a high level require dedication and perseverance. All the successes and setbacks throughout my netball journey have shaped me into the person I am today."

Netball taught her the value of teamwork. "No victory can be achieved alone. Having the right people alongside you is crucial. The collective efforts of each team I've been in reinforced the value of teamwork, communication, and trust in every aspect of my life and career," she emphasizes.

(Top Row, 2^nd from Left) Deborah Rowe with her national teammates in the HK-Singapore Cup 2017. Photo Credit : Netball Singapore

Deborah’s journey into PR started with her academic pursuits, including a degree in Journalism and Public Relations and a Postgraduate Diploma in Sport Business Management & Policy. "While my Bachelor’s Degree provided a solid foundation in Communications, I wanted a comprehensive understanding of the sports industry," she explains.

Upon graduating in November 2012, Deborah aimed for a career in sports broadcasting, inspired by local producer-presenter Colette Wong. However, with opportunities scarce, she redirected her efforts toward communications roles within the sports sector, landing a job at CROWD PR.

At CROWD PR, Deborah combined her love for sports with her communication skills. "Working at the Singapore Badminton Open was an eye-opening experience that allowed me to dive deep into sports PR," she recalls. This role laid the foundation for her career, which led her to join Roco Communications in 2017. There, Deborah worked on world-class events like the HSBC Women’s World Golf Championship and HSBC Rugby Sevens. "These years were pivotal for my growth. I cultivated strong relationships with clients and media colleagues, which proved invaluable when I ventured into my own agency," she notes.

Deborah Rowe (right) working at a CROWD PR event in 2015 for their client, New Balance. Photo Credit : Deborah Rowe

In 2022, Deborah founded her boutique PR agency, "Talk of the Town". "Opening my agency redefined the client-agency relationship. Unlike larger agencies, I maintain a hands-on approach, assuring clients they are in good hands," she explains.

Starting her own business had its challenges. "The first year was tough, navigating the uncertainties of entrepreneurship. I had to network and secure opportunities, leveraging past relationships and delivering high-quality work," she admits.

Deborah Rowe (Extreme Left), moderating the LIV Golf Singapore Media Day event in 2023. Photo Credit : Deborah Rowe

Deborah’s focus remains on sports, driven by her passion and extensive industry knowledge. She has also handled lifestyle projects, drawing from her experiences with key accounts like Golden Village and Nespresso. "This allows me to bring a comprehensive approach to my work, ensuring each client receives tailored strategies and effective communication solutions," she says.

Her guiding mantra is the Japanese proverb 七転び八起き (Nanakorobiyaoki), meaning "fall seven times, stand up eight." "This proverb defines resilience. I've faced setbacks, including the passing of my greatest supporter, my dad, in 2017. But perseverance and resilience are crucial. Someone out there has it much worse, which fills me with gratitude," she reflects.

Deborah Rowe (left) moderating a media conference with defending champion Anthony Ginting (right), at the 2024 KFF Singapore Badminton Open. Photo Credit : Deborah Rowe

Despite retiring from competitive netball in 2023, Deborah remains committed to the sport. Winning the PR contract for the Mirxes Nations Cup has been a privilege. "This allows me to shine a light on our national netball team and promote an exciting event that brings together the best international teams to compete in Singapore," she enthuses.

Running her PR agency and taking on freelance projects, Deborah continues to tell unique stories in sports. "The annual Nations Cup is more than a tournament; it's an opportunity to inspire young girls and women to continue playing this beloved sport," she believes. Her next challenge is expanding "Talk of the Town" and participating in more world-class sporting events in Singapore, driven by her passion for storytelling.

Deborah Rowe was one of a few lucky Singaporeans to have secured tickets to Liverpool FC’s final EPL match of the season at Anfield, and manager Jurgen Klopp’s last game in charge on 19 May 2024. Photo Credit : Deborah Rowe