The prophecy from President David O. McKay in Laie declared that from this school—BYU–Hawaii—leaders would go forth throughout the world, both men and women, as forces for good. As a young woman from the Philippines in 1980, I had no idea that this prophecy would one day include me.
I had just left my homeland and family behind and stepped onto the BYUH campus for the first time. The idea that I would have a role in fulfilling such a grand prophecy was the furthest thing from my mind. I was overwhelmed, shy, reserved, and adjusting to a completely new but exciting environment. I wouldn’t realize until years later that my time at BYUH was the beginning of something extraordinary.
Today, BYU–Hawaii represents over 65 international countries with a student body of nearly 3,000. There’s nothing else quite like it in America. Add to that the breathtaking location on Oahu’s North Shore, and you begin to understand just how unique this school truly is.
I am naturally a private person who never sought the spotlight. But I’ve always had a strong desire to serve others. I believe that desire came from my upbringing, learning at the feet of my mother and father back home. We are, in many ways, shaped by the lessons and experiences of our youth—even if we don’t realize it at the time.
My ethos has always been to quietly serve in the background. I’ve never enjoyed speaking to groups. Yet, over the years, and more so recently, I’ve found myself front and center—often outside my comfort zone—because that’s where the Lord needed me to be.
One of the greatest honors of my life came just last year. As president of the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii, I led a delegation of business executives on a trade mission to the Philippines. The highlight of that trip was addressing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his cabinet. I am a simple girl from Pasay, Metro Manila, standing in front of the president of my home country, leading a delegation from Hawaii. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that moment.
None of this would have been possible without BYUH. It was there that I met my husband Joe, and together we built a successful business that has blessed many others. My time at BYUH nurtured in me the desire to serve, and that has led me to take part in many organizations—from city commissions to women’s business groups, to serving on the BYUH Alumni Executive Board.
Even though I remain shy and prefer not to be in the limelight, the Lord continues to give me opportunities to speak before political and business leaders. I’ve come to understand that these are sacred moments where I can share values that resonate. Last year, I spoke at Washington Place in front of both the Governor of the Philippines and the Governor of Hawaii. While public speaking is not my preference, I now recognize it as part of my divine calling—to serve where He calls me.
I share this with you because we never truly know where the Lord will lead us. The roles we play may seem small to us, but in His plan, they are essential. When I reflect on where I’ve been, the people I’ve met, and what I’ve been able to accomplish, I am filled with gratitude and awe.
I wouldn’t trade any of it. I still remember the feeling of lying in a dorm room bed in Hawaii for the first time, thinking how lucky I was just to have my own space. BYUH is a special place, full of spirit and purpose. You won’t find anything else like it in the world.
I thank my Heavenly Father for the small part I’ve been allowed to play in His plan. My hope is that my journey will inspire others to be ready to serve wherever the Lord calls.