As the newly elected FACCGINW President, I am excited to lead our organization into a promising future. Building upon the strong foundation laid by my predecessors, I am committed to fostering growth and success for all our members.
With my rich background in business and community engagement, I bring a unique perspective to this role. Born and raised in the Philippines, I immigrated to the United States in 1984 and have since embarked on a diverse entrepreneurial journey. From importing luxury leather purses made of frog skin to operating a bustling coffee house in downtown Chicago, I have always been driven by a passion for innovation and creativity.
After five years in the vibrant city, I made the decision to relocate to the tranquil suburbs of Palos Hills, Illinois, to provide my children with a nurturing environment. It was during this time that I was approached by a real estate developer, offering me the opportunity to sell and market their ambitious development project. Eager to explore new horizons, I seized the chance and even ventured into the travel agency business, eventually selling it to pursue other ventures.
In 2002, I remarried my husband of twenty years in Washington state. Together, we successfully operated a retail and wholesale business across three different locations, establishing ourselves as a prominent force in the industry. Combining our expertise and entrepreneurial spirit, we navigated the ever-changing market and recently sold our wholesale business after decades of remarkable growth.
Beyond my professional accomplishments, I am deeply committed to giving back to the community that has supported me throughout my journey. I have dedicated countless hours to volunteering for various organizations, associations, and non-profits, driven by a desire to make a positive impact. As the former Chairwoman and event organizer of Spokane County, I spearheaded one of the largest fundraising initiatives for an esteemed organization.
Looking ahead, my main objective as FACCGINW President is to create a membership structure that caters to the diverse needs of our local businesses. By offering tailored benefits and opportunities, we can empower our members to thrive in their respective industries. Together, we will foster collaboration, encourage innovation, and strengthen the business landscape, ensuring the continued success of our community.
With your support and active involvement, we can achieve great things. Join me in this exciting chapter as we forge ahead, united in our pursuit of excellence and prosperity.