𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 VVSEAI 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺: Isaac Kwa

We're excited to share our "𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 VVSEAI 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺" series to introduce the wonderful, multi-faceted talent we have in the Vertex Ventures SEA & India! For the month of December, we would like to introduce our colleague Isaac Kwa based in Singapore.

1.What did you do before Vertex and what did you study?

I started my career on the Investment Team at Una Brands, a pre-Series C e-commerce aggregator focused on acquiring and scaling D2C and marketplace brands. As one of its earliest employees, I joined when the company was little more than a website and got the chance to help execute its first transactions.

Later, I moved into a portfolio growth role, where I focused on scaling the same companies I helped acquire. This gave me a hands-on look at the operational challenges founders face and deepened my understanding of what it takes to grow a business.

Before Una Brands, I studied Finance and Entrepreneurship at the National University of Singapore. Alongside academics, I got practical experience through VC internships and student clubs. I also competed in powerlifting meets—though those days feel like a lifetime ago!

2. What is one thing you most enjoy about working at Vertex?

What I really enjoy about working at Vertex is the freedom to explore new ideas. Even though I come from a consumer-focused background, I’m encouraged to dive into technical themes and uncover exciting investment opportunities.

Being part of one of the longest-standing funds in the region also means I get to learn from experienced colleagues and portfolio founders. Their insights have helped me grow faster than I ever expected. It’s a supportive environment that challenges me to be a better investor every day.

3. Tell us something we didn't know that you do outside of work.
Outside of work, I try to stay active and make time for friends. I play squash with friends pretty regularly and am currently trying to pick up pickleball.

I’m also really into stand-up comedy and have recently become obsessed with the board game Catan. The mix of strategy, negotiation, and resource management leads to some pretty lively debates with friends, and no two games ever feel the same!

Last month, we featured another colleague, Nisrina, read more about her here.

For the latest news on Vertex Ventures SE Asia and India and our portfolio companies, follow us on Linkedin or subscribe to our monthly newsletter.