Philippines sits at the heart of the Coral Triangle and two ocean-loving colleagues, Czar and Maffy, made it their mission to protect the reefs by creating products that would not harm the corals. Czar tells how it all started and what motivates them to stay on course.
NN: How did it all start for you?
Czar: It started around 6 years ago when I read an article about how sunscreens are toxic to coral reefs. I was about to go on a beach trip at that time, so I tried looking for a reef-safe sunscreen in the Philippines. However, I couldn't find any. Incidentally, my colleague in advertising at that time was also aware of the issue. We simply decided to develop a locally-made reef-safe sunscreen to make it available to beachgoers in the Philippines. And so MAGWAI was born.
NN: What do you like the most about being an entrepreneur?
Czar: Working on something that I truly believe in.
NN: What is the hardest part about running a startup?
Czar: We always need to be smart and creative in using our finite resources.
NN: What is needed for women entrepreneurs to succeed?
Czar: Resilience and being able to adapt to change. And having a team that complements one's strengths and weaknesses.
NN: What is your motivation?
Czar: I love my job. I get inspired by my teammates every day. I feel privileged to have the space to reflect while taking the challenges head-on. And I am honoured to be working on a problem that can have a positive impact on the environment.
(This February, Nüshu Network is bringing you stories of inspiring women entrepreneurs and startups that are truly gamechangers.)