Cover Lessons learned from some of our 2024 Asia’s Most Influential honourees throughout their career
Lessons learned from some of our 2024 Asia’s Most Influential honourees throughout their career
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For these changemakers, becoming influential is not just about reaching outward—it’s about looking inward, growing through challenges, and using one’s platform to create a ripple effect of positive change
While it is often mistaken with power, influence is a spark that ignites change and inspires others. It rarely emerges in isolation but requires deep personal growth, an openness to vulnerability, and a willingness to be authentic. It calls for self-awareness and a profound understanding of how life is shaped by actions.
Across diverse fields, some of our 2024 Asia’s Most Influential honourees are showing how experiences and personal growth intertwine with the commitment to creating impact.
From conservation to creativity, and science to sustainability, these changemakers share a common trait: it is the ability to use challenges into opportunities for themselves and others.
Here are the #LessonsLearned of some of the influential leaders in the Philippines.
Read more: Asia’s Most Influential 2024 celebrates the visionary leaders fuelling the spirit of progress
Billie Dumaliang: Strength Through Community
As a conservationist and the director for advocacy at the Masungi Georeserve, Billie Dumaliang lives by the philosophy of shared strength.
Her work goes beyond protecting the environment and towards empowering others to join the fight for a sustainable future. Dumaliang’s mindset underscores that strength is multiplied when shared, and compassion is the key to creating meaningful change.
Read more: Ann and Billie Dumaliang bravely stand for conservation at the Masungi Georeserve
Mahar Lagmay: Trust in Science
During his tenure as executive director of the Project Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards (Project NOAH), Mahar Lagmay faced a defining moment that tested his resolve.
When critical data from the disaster risk reduction programme predicted a flood due to Typhoon Haikui in 2023—set to strike at dawn while most people slept peacefully in their beds—Lagmay chose to act.
Despite lingering doubts, the Filipino geologist sounded the alarm, ensuring the public received the warning in time to take action and saving countless lives in the process.
This experience underscored the importance of trusting science, even in moments of uncertainty.
Read more: 6 Filipino eco-warriors you must know
Christopher “Toff” de Venecia: Creativity in Policy
Creativity and policy-making might seem like a strange combination, but Christopher “Toff” de Venecia has mastered the art of integrating the two.
A piece of advice reshaped his perspective, teaching him that passion fuels effective governance. De Venecia highlights the importance of bringing your whole self to your work, proving that creativity has a rightful place even in the most structured environments.
Read more: How Toff de Venecia enables the creatives industry to thrive
Carmen Jimenez Ong: Purpose-Driven Leadership
Carmen Jimenez Ong, philanthropist and real estate developer, has built her legacy on the foundation of sustainability and compassion.
Through Menarco Development, she prioritises people and the planet—the epitome of an influential purpose-driven leader. Her reflections reveal that true influence comes not from pursuing success for its own sake but from creating spaces and systems that nurture well-being and growth for all.
Anthony Nazareno: Kindness as a Guiding Light
For Anthony Nazareno, the pandemic brought not only challenges but also a renewed commitment to kindness. Inspired by a quote from Mother Teresa, he embraced the power of small acts to brighten lives during dark times. This ethos continues to shape his work as an architect and designer, proving that the simplest gestures can create ripples of positivity.
Read more: Getting to know Anthony Nazareno and his design philosophy on architecture
Franco Varona: The Power of Humility
Franco Varona, co-founder of Foxmont Capital Partners, emphasises that success is a team effort. His reflections on humility reveal a deep appreciation for the support and diverse perspectives that have shaped his journey. This entrepreneur reminds that no achievement is solo and that valuing others is the cornerstone of lasting success.
Read more: These leaders are shaping the Philippine economy through innovation and influence
Budji Layug: Embrace Adventure
At 17, Budji Layug’s design journey began in New York and took him through architecture in Manila before a transformative detour to Europe. His time in London, where he trained under the legendary Vidal Sassoon, led him back to Manila, where he became a renowned hairstylist.
Through his adventures and exploration, he discovered his true calling in design, a pursuit that continues to shape his life’s work.
Syrah is Tatler Philippines’ Power & Purpose editor, where she spotlights extraordinary journeys shaping the Philippines and Asia. She covers business, innovation, impact, and culture—chasing the people, ideas and forces shaping how we live and think today.
