Obituary: Remembering Winston Fernandez
Winston Fernandez, co-founder of Tara Media & Communications (www.taramedia.com.my), passed away peacefully on 5 May 2021 at the age of 63.
Under Winston’s forward-thinking approach and guidance, from the company’s humble beginnings 20 years ago of providing businesses with complementary media solutions, today it has broadened its ventures to print and digital publications, media representation, event and conference organising, as well as business/marketing consultancy services.
Winston instilled in the company its core values of integrity, honesty, and respect. He led by example, motivating staff and colleagues and making them feel valued and supported. This exemplary leadership trait of Winston was a silver lining for the business and staff at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. During that time of uncertainty, his generosity, empathy, and optimism became the indomitable force behind the business’s continued endurance.
Winston was born in the historical Malaysian state of Malacca (he always joked he was part of Malacca’s history). He grew up in various parts of Malaysia, when his father, who worked on estate plantations, moved his family to where his job took him to.
Winston also wore many hats in his career: he worked in marketing, education, accounting and publishing. He graduated with a Marketing degree from the UK in 1983 and lived in Auckland, New Zealand, in the late 1980s; as well as in Beijing, China, from 1995-1997, where he was instrumental in setting up the branch of a Malaysian college.
Although it is a time of great sadness and bereavement for us as we mourn the loss of Winston, we also celebrate his life that was lived in full, and one which he shared with each and every one of us. He touched the lives of many with his enriched beliefs and character development that helped shape staff, colleagues, clients and his students (when he taught in colleges) for the better.
Winston will be remembered for championing the company’s motto: “simplicity is the best policy”; and will be known for his pleasant demeanour, laughter, patience and willingness to lend a hand to anyone.
Tara Media & Communications and its group of publications will forever be emboldened by Winston’s legacy of hard work, dedication and service.