Cover Karen Davila (Photo: Courtesy of @iamkarendavila / Instagram)

Tatler Asia’s Most Influential 2022 honouree Karen Davila shares how she has remained on top of her game in the media scene for years

After spending almost half of her life in media, it is no surprise that Karen Davila is the accomplished woman that she is now. Known to be one of the most hardworking broadcasters, Davila has earned citations through the years. She is in radio, television, and more recently, the digital space—her influence knows no bounds. 

“Viewing habits have changed,” she says. “The key is to remain relevant to growing audiences, and the only way to do it is to understand the platforms that people watch.” 

In case you missed it: Karen Davila on Controversial Interviews, Pandemic Pivots, and Why She is on Top of the Game

Here, Davila shares with Tatler the things she’s proud of and her inspirations through the years. 

Tatler Asia
Above Karen Davila

What projects in the last two years are you most proud of? Why?

I have been a broadcast journalist for years now, and all the work I have done was with media giants, from GMA to ABS-CBN. In the last two years, I tried to expand my reach by doing a limited series podcast that reached number 1 and started my YouTube channel. I feel very proud of how the channel has turned out because of its content creation, which doesn’t stray too far from my equity as a journalist.

The growth of the channel in over a year has been so encouraging! I feel excited and passionate about the growth of this creative platform. I’m also happy the channel shares inspiring stories of people we know and life lessons that connect with spiritual wisdom.

What challenges do you see now in your respective industry? How do you intend to help address these challenges?

Innovation is key. More viewers are transferring to digital with the non-renewal of the ABS-CBN franchise. Viewing habits have changed. The key is to remain relevant in growing audiences and the only way to do it is to understand the platforms people watch content. I am a communicator at heart and a storyteller, and I want to keep growing and learning. The digital space is now.

The digital space is now.

- Karen Davila -

What can you say to those who want to follow in your footsteps?

Work very hard and have faith in God and yourself. No shortcuts. Do the hard and dirty work. Learn the ropes and be 200 per cent into everything you do because that’s when it makes a difference!

Who do you look up to for guidance, inspiration or mentorship?

I’ve had a lot of inspiration through the years. From former bosses like Cheche Lazaro, Luchi Cruz Valdes, and Maria Ressa to broadcast icons like Loren Legarda. . .but I would say a majority of who I am comes from my mother; both the best and weakest parts of me come from her. I have become strong all these years because of her guidance and don’t-give-up attitude! She has grit.

What are your plans for the coming years, and what keeps you going?

I have to say the key is to keep to your purpose and reinvent yourself while at it. I don’t know what the next few years will be like [but] I know I will be working. My family keeps me going, and more than that, it’s the value of knowing God has given me one life to live. I want it to count, I want it to matter, I want it to be amazing! I don’t want to waste this one life.

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