The president and CEO of the Philippine-founded social enterprise describes how she feels and felt during some of the most memorable moments in her life
In the When I Felt The Most... series, Gen.T honourees recall the emotions they felt during some of the most defining moments in their careers and lives
Reese Fernandez-Ruiz first established Rags2Riches in 2008. Through her years as its president and CEO, she has steered the ethical fashion brand through various challenges, from economic upheavals to ever-changing consumer trends. Unlike many other brands, Rags2Riches saw opportunities and growth in turbulent times, launching new lines of clothing, accessories and home decor during the pandemic.
Beyond fashion, Fernandez-Ruiz created Rags2Riches to provide livelihoods to marginalised communities. She has worked with traditional weavers from all around the Philippines, including the provinces of Kalinga and South Cotabato, and the island of Mindoro.
“Inclusive entrepreneurship that aims to do social good aside from making money can be inspiring and rewarding, but also extremely challenging,” Fernandez-Ruiz admits. “On the surface, it may look romantic, but behind the scenes, it takes a lot of hard work, dedication, grit, discipline and enduring hope against all odds.”
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Aside from working with local Filipino artisans, Rags2Riches has collaborated with other organisations and communities such as the social enterprise BalaiKamay to work with carvers from Tondo, Manila. In 2021, it became Ikea's official sewing partner in the Philippines, providing customisation services for its textile products.
Fifteen years after establishing her social enterprise, Fernandez-Ruiz answers questions about how she felt during some of the most memorable experiences in her personal and professional journeys.
When did you feel the most...
Proud? When we survived the lockdowns as a company without letting anyone go. I know it was incredibly hard for many businesses and they had to make difficult decisions to survive, so we were really fortunate to have been in the position we were in.
Disappointed? Every time I eat what I think is a chocolate chip cookie, but the chocolates turn out to be raisins.
Uncertain or worried? March 2020.
Confident? Whenever I'm on stage talking about Rags2Riches’ story and the issues I advocate.
Sad? When I had postpartum blues after my first child was born. It was an intense experience that not many mothers or parents talk about. The experience taught me a lot about myself and my amazing support community.
Happy? Whenever I win! I'm a naturally competitive person, so winning competitions or games are awesome! There is one kind of winning that I don't work so hard for, but it still makes me so happy—and that's a raffle draw. I've won big prizes in raffle draws before, including a trip to Europe, a sofa set and gadgets.
Excited? Planning for trips with the kids. I plan everything in a way that is not stressful, but I will check the boxes that are most important for my children.
Grateful? Every single day. At our company, Intentionality, Inc, which owns Rags2Riches, gratefulness is one of our values. We start all of our meetings by sharing what we are most grateful for for the day.
Challenged? When I watch shows on true crime and psychological deep dives. People can be fascinating, but also incredibly complex and scary.
Curious? When I'm figuring out new spreadsheet designs for new kinds of businesses. I love spreadsheets and I have gotten really good at them. One of my hats is Strategic Finance consultant for various companies. I love being able to crack complex systems, and make them simple and visible using spreadsheets.
Stressed? Earlier this year when I was at Davos listening to the realities of the climate emergency. It stressed me out and made me want to be part of the solution even more.
Confused? Almost every time I'm on the road trying to figure out what road to take. (I'm bad with directions.)
Keen to go back in time to experience something again? When I watched Hamilton the Musical. I watched it a few years back because my husband lined up for 4 hours to get me a chance ticket. They were almost always sold out during that time in New York.
Get to know more Gen.T honourees from the Philippines.