Who is she?
Grace Tolentino is the Chairman and CEO of Boracay Beach Inc. and President of Akamai Holdings Inc. She is in entrepreneurship, focusing in investments and finance and based in the Philippines, but often travel throughout Asia.
She loves building fruitful relationships with investors and clients, values trust, transparency and consistency when she works with people. She also constantly drives for efficiency in her organizations because she is passionate about progress and results.
“Being an entrepreneur puts more life into your living. By proactively living in each moment and by being fully engaged with others, you will discover a life that is happier, more meaningful and impactful.”
What is a typical morning at work?
“I prefer to start my day with coffee, a nutritious meal, and supplements. I start work by responding to emails and messages. This usually takes up my mornings. My lunch is usually light and I take walks to clear my mind and improve my focus. I sometimes take meetings in the morning but usually schedule those in the afternoon.”
What are some of the challenges of the job?
“Since projects are tailored to the client, we often encounter unique situations that are not on the playbook. We have to often think on our feet to solve problems.”
What were some of the life lessons which you have learned along the way in your career?
“You have to have the courage to act. This is applicable with everything in life, not just business. Be a positive influence. Dream big and stay focused. Choose your own circle and build better relationships. Always be self- content, learn to be balanced and moderate.”
Best advice someone has given you in life?
“Just Be Yourself. Be comfortable on your own skin. Learn to value people.”
As an entrepreneur yourself, what motivates you personally?
“The lifestyle itself is my motivation. I like completing projects that make an impact. I’m passionate about my work, my team, and our partners. I enjoy the fact that I don’t work a 9 to 5. Though I work longer hours, I enjoy the flexibility and the freedom.”
Do you see a lot more women now boldly taking up managerial or leadership positions in an organization?
“Yes. Though the field is primarily dominated by men, more and more women are exploring finance as a career.”
Do you ever face biasness in your work and position because of your gender?
“I’ve learned to just showcase my abilities and let my work speak for itself. I play my strengths and as a woman, I can achieve things quicker than the field.
If you truly desire to be extraordinary, you have to keep your commitment vital and ongoing.”
If I were not an Entrepreneur, I would be a _________?
“I don’t think I can be anything else but be who I am today.”
Any inspirational quote for all the women in business & leadership out there?
- “There is no one who can make you a success except you, yourself. Stay true to your vision.”
- “Learn how to take responsibility of your own choices and be determine to go on your own path.”
- “Challenge yourself to be better and do things excellently. Know what you want.”
- “A lot of passion has driven me to work hard and it keeps me going.”
- “Develop discipline and balance in all things.”
Check out Boracay Beach Inc. here