PRESENTED BY:
Why I’m hosting PHTimeIsNow in Toronto
I stumbled upon #PHTimeIsNow while browsing through social media. When I read what it was about, I got extremely excited about the opportunity to learn from today’s Global Filipino leaders.
I was motivated to attend for a few reasons. First, with my 13+ years in the corporate banking industry, I knew how difficult it was to find a mentor that can help in a professional capacity. Let alone, a mentor that would understand where I come from, and what my values were as a person. I’ve had my share of challenges in the corporate world given that no matter what role I held, or cities I worked in, whenever I sat at the table, I was the only one that looked like me.
In addition, as a new entrepreneur baking cakes and desserts, I wanted to take some time for myself to learn from other individuals, and maximize my capabilities. According to Forbes, 80% of entrepreneurs starting a business fail within the first 18 months. With this daunting statistic in mind, I was determined not to fall into that category.
Here I was, at a point in my life where I was hungry to learn and grow. And as it turned out, PHTimeIsNow was about to launch for the first time in NYC on June 9. It was kismet. I reached out to Carissa, and she listened to my story and encouraged me to contribute to #PHTimeIsNow in my own way.
Rechie and her PHTimeIsNow cake design and cookies in NYC
In the end, she took my random puzzle piece, and made it fit into the larger picture of the event.
On three separate occasions, my luggage almost didn’t make it to NYC. It got lost in the luggage sorter, almost missed the plane, and I lost one of its wheels on my walk to The Harvard Club. (It had the cake and sweet treats that I donated for the swag bags.)
No matter what, I pressed on. It was also most touching to me that there were good Samaritans from the #PHTimeIsNow attendees who helped me with my burden, missing wheel and all, as we navigated through Times Square.
Rechie and other PHTimeIsNow attendees
During lunch, I was greeted warmly by everyone I met, it didn’t feel rigid and awkward like the many events I’ve attended in the past. We shared our stories, laughter and experiences with one another. There were no egos or walls, just honest conversations and genuine connections. Already, the day was off to an amazing start.
Shortly after, I met my mentor, Mike Sagun. I was happy to be paired with an individual who coaches for a living, and who speaks publicly about living in authenticity.
Since I was in the midst of uncovering my true passion in creative expression, engagement and empowerment, this meeting was so timely. Our conversation, though brief, was enough to ignite another flame in my heart to live my life with purpose.
As the formal agenda kicked off, I heard each of the memorable stories and journeys of the Global Trailblazers. I took mental notes and quotes from each person and created an inventory of empowering thoughts and words. I knew I would be able to reach into this repository when I needed it the most.
Rechie and PHTimeIsNow Mentor Mike Sagun
There was ample opportunity throughout the evening to meet and connect with everyone, including my inspiration, restaurateur and empire-bulder, Nicole Ponseca. Everyone was just so accessible and approachable.
I was pleasantly surprised that conversations continued through to the After Party at W Hotel Times Square. A small group of us, didn’t want the night to end, so we strolled through Times Square (broken & heavy luggage in tow) to enjoy the wonderful evening in each other’s company.
Nicole Ponseca and Rechie Valdez
One of the profound occurrences this weekend was having friendships, and a newfound family blossom organically.
The next day, we had the pleasure of having lunch at Nicole’s restaurant, Jeepney, a Filipino Gastropub. Nicole, Miguel and their team were very hospitable. Their food was so delicious and inviting. To close our trip, we had tea and ube lattės at the Kabisera Kapé. Jeanette Marco and her team brewed and shaked up delicious drinks and desserts for us. We truly had the Filipino Food Stops Tour of NYC. As I left the concrete jungle where there’s nothing you can’t do, I felt reenergized and excited to head back home to Toronto, eager to share what I gained in my mind, heart and soul with my community in Canada.
Lunch time with PHTimeIsNow Trailblazers
Post-event brunch at Jeepney NYC
Originally, we were planning to bid to host #PHTimeIsNow in Toronto in October 2019. But when the opportunity presented itself I couldn’t say no. People asked why not do an intimate event that aims to repeat and replicate the spirit of June 9th? I could not wait to help make it happen.
And so, five weeks later from the experience, here we are, helping each other create the time and space to care for one another’s #GlobalFilipinoJourney, in the spirit of #PHTimeIsNow.
I know there are many students, young adults, and/or business owners in Toronto, still in the midst of finding themselves. For many years, I too felt completely lost and alone. After persevering for two decades, I was able to make my way through the corporate world and eventually start up my own business.
But looking back, I wonder how different my life would be had I encountered mentors, or a PHTimeIsNow equivalent when I was younger and unsure, when I really needed it the most.
Understanding that we all come from various upbringings and situations, one thing I know for sure, we do things better together. If we open up to each other and share our stories, this gesture alone, can make all the difference in the world just like it did for me just a few weeks ago.
I am so excited to host the first-ever PHTimeIsNow satellite event in my hometown, that my husband Christopher and I even made this short video edit about it.
I believe Our Time Is Now, Toronto. Let’s not wait around for things to change and get better. Let’s be the change together.
