I was born and raised in the Philippines. As a young girl, I dreamed of becoming an astronaut. I was endlessly fascinated by the universe and exploring what lies beyond what we know. Like many childhood dreams, that one eventually met reality. Becoming an astronaut is a path open to very few.
So, I chose another way forward. After completing my bachelor’s degree in science in Manila, I embarked on a journey at the London School of Economics and Political Science, where I studied financial markets, later completing an MBA at HEC in Paris.
My career didn’t follow a straight line. I began in investment banking in Southeast Asia, before moving into consulting and strategy roles across Europe. These environments were demanding and high pressure, with high stakes and little margin for error. They pushed me to develop rigor and discipline early on, but they also taught me something just as important: how leadership behaviour truly shows up under pressure.
Over time, I realised I was most motivated by helping organisations navigate change and growth - not just by designing strategy, but making it real. Each transition came with uncertainty, but also with growing clarity about the kind of leader I wanted to become.
Working and living in Paris also brought challenges of its own. I was offered an exciting role at a French bank, on the condition that I would master French in just four months. If my level wasn’t sufficient by then, I would have to leave. It was a daunting moment – but also a defining one. When I commit to something, I fully commit. I made it happen. France grew on me, and – ten years later – I consider France my home.
Years spent in investment banking, shaped by international experience and fast-paced environments, have deeply influenced how I see people, problems, and leadership. These roles have taught me resilience, focus, and the importance of staying grounded – especially when expectations are high.
Outside of work, I find balance in the ocean. I’m a licensed scuba diver, freediver, and sailor. I also reset through sport like horse riding and skiing, and through music - having trained classically in piano for 15 years. I admit I’m also a bit of a gym enthusiast; rest days are negotiable. These passions are anchors for me. They keep me connected to myself, which I believe is essential to leading with clarity and purpose.
To me, Give to Gain means sharing time, trust, and perspective without expecting immediate returns. I apply it by mentoring, advocating for others in rooms they’re not yet in, and making space for honest conversations. Over time, that generosity builds stronger teams and better outcomes - for everyone.
In my own career, I have been fortunate to have received that same kind of support. Managers trusted me before I felt ready. Mentors offered honest advice. Colleagues shared opportunities instead of competing for them. I wouldn’t be where I am today without that generosity.
I’m motivated by creating impact beyond my own role. I enjoy helping teams and leaders turn ideas into something tangible, while creating space for others to grow along the way. For me, leadership is about responsibility far more than recognition.
Now, in a leadership role myself, I try to lead with clarity and fairness. I set high standards, but I also make room for learning and mistakes. Having experienced both supportive and difficult leadership styles, I’m very intentional about fostering an environment where people feel respected, trusted, and encouraged to grow.
When I reflect on the broader landscape, women still face challenges in their growth journeys. High-pressure environments can amplify existing inequalities - especially for women. Expectations around toughness, visibility, and leadership style are not always applied evenly, and women often have to work harder to be heard or trusted.
Consistent sponsorship, fair access to opportunities, and leaders who are genuinely open to different perspectives make a real difference. Growth thrives in environments where people feel seen, heard, and trusted - not boxed in.
A generous culture is one where people share credit, make time for others, and offer help without being asked. It’s when success isn’t a zero-sum game, and growth is something you build together.
Having been with BDO for a year and a half, I’ve been genuinely impressed by the culture. BDO creates opportunities through mobility, leadership development, and a growing focus on inclusion and belonging. What I value most is the openness to dialogue and the willingness to evolve - DE&I is approached as a journey, not a checkbox.
Trust your pace, your voice, and be clear about your values and boundaries. Learn everything you can by observing the leaders around you - and remember that how you lead yourself today shapes how you’ll lead others tomorrow.
Confidence grows with experience. You earn it step by step.
