Power moms speak
For Mother’s Day, I asked women friends who helm businesses while raising families: What lessons have you taken to heart? What wisdom can you impart to business-leader moms?
Olivia Limpe-Aw, chief executive of Destileria Limtuaco and Co., and mother of Clifford, Aaron and Brandon:
“Raising children and building a business share parallels: patience, discipline and the ability to let go at the right moments.
“When my children were growing up, I taught them independence and resilience. As much as we want to protect them 24/7, it’s simply not possible, so we equip them with values: knowing right from wrong, learning to protect themselves, staying disciplined, doing their best and understanding that failure isn’t the end, but rather a stepping stone. If they fail, they learn to rise and try again—stronger, smarter and more determined.
“Just as we teach structure, we also give them space. Let them enjoy childhood, explore interests, discover their talents, build friendships and develop empathy. These shape their character and help them become confident and well-rounded. The balance of structure and freedom builds the strong foundation they need to thrive.
“Now that my children are part of the business, I’ve learned that passing on wisdom doesn’t mean forcing them to do things my way. I share lessons and goals, but I respect their process, ideals, style.
“My sons say, ‘We can’t always follow your way, Mom,’ and now we appreciate a more collaborative dynamic. I listen to their suggestions, adopt what works, guide them in execution. That’s where mentorship and partnership meet.
“I allow them to make mistakes. Mistakes are powerful teachers. They show us we’re not always right, push us to listen to others with more experience, and yes, sometimes even give me a chance to say, ‘I told you so’—but in the spirit of love and learning.
“I teach my sons to take responsibility: acknowledge the error, find solutions, minimize the damage and move forward wiser and stronger.
“Lead with love, teach with humility, and know that your children are watching and learning every step of the way. Your influence is lifelong, both at home and in business.”
Catherine Tiu-Tan, executive vice-president of Akari Lighting and Technology Corp., and mother of Gerard and Timothy:
“Most rewarding and humbling is to work with my children, and to learn from them. I was the first teacher of my sons. I taught them to hold a pen, write the alphabet, count, sing the national anthem, and others.
“As I learned from my parents, now I learn from my sons. Being both mother and business head taught me that leadership begins at home. It’s about empathy, resilience, patience, listening intently—skills needed both at the office and at home, as professional and personal values become even more important.
“Success is not just about results. It’s about relationships, purpose and legacy.”
Robina Gokongwei-Pe, chair of Robinsons Retail Holdings, and mother of Justin and Joan:
“There will always be work-life imbalance, so you have to make choices. There’s no right or wrong choice. But do make up your mind, do not be wishy-washy, and everything will fall into place.”
Mary Joy Canon-Abaquin, founding directress of Multiple Intelligence International School, and mother of Chiara and Anica:
“One great lesson is the power of leading by example. I strive to show my children that it’s possible to pursue your passion while remaining grounded in purpose and values.
“Nurturing yourself is essential—only when we care for ourselves can we truly care for others. Also faith: faith in myself and my dreams, in others who share my vision, and in God to guide me in fulfilling my purpose.
“Women in leadership have a unique opportunity—and responsibility—to model what balanced success looks like. We can demonstrate how to thrive professionally while being present and devoted as mothers and partners.
“Embrace your full identity. Bring the strengths of womanhood—compassion, resilience, intuition and the ability to juggle multiple roles—into your business. Let your children see you living your purpose, a gift we can offer the next generation.”
(Next week: More power moms.)
Queena N. Lee-Chua is with the board of directors of Ateneo’s Family Business Center. Get her book “All in the Family Business” at Lazada or Shopee, or the ebook version at Amazon, Google Play, Apple iBooks. Contact the author at blessbook.chua@gmail.com.
