Staying apart, but working together: Okada Manila team members in the time of COVID-19
Over the course of the year, we have seen the pandemic change our entire way of life. It has disrupted how we live and work, and at the same time, it has opened new opportunities for us to be take an active part in making a positive impact in our own small way.
In this series, we look at how Okada Manila team members have adapted under these extraordinary circumstances that we are in. By embracing our core values, our team members have developed new ways to live that exemplifies a “true heart” of service.
Meet Paulo Concepcion, a senior manager for premium marketing services in Okada Manila. He has been in the company for four years and has continually made an impact inside and outside the workplace through hard work, service, and compassion.
The interview that follows has been edited for length and clarity.
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Every trial is an opportunity for greater success.
This is what I’ve learned in my four years in Okada Manila, along with my Japanese Language & Culture Studies course while I was still a student at the Universidad de Manila (UDM). I have used every lesson that I have picked up to contribute to a better world.
Despite the pandemic, I celebrated another year of blessings. Cheers to 35 years.
When the pandemic started, I started a journey that has proved to be fruitful and enriching. I paused and prayed. I asked for discernment and guidance. I did not want to waste away my time, so I thought of doing something meaningful—something that feeds the mind and the soul. The Japanese principles of omotenashi and magokoro discussed during my university days proved to be helpful.
We started PAUdesal Bakery a month ago in Galas, Quezon City.
Some thought that I was making a bad decision when I decided to open a small business. Businesses were downsizing and some were even closing, but I was ready to make a leap of faith. I saw this not just an opportunity to earn but also a chance for us to help those who are in need.
Opening a bakeshop to sell Filipino pastry favorites is my way of helping struggling kababayans to have something affordable during this unprecedented time. Food is so basic a need and I wanted to put up this small venture to cater to my community.
Always humbled when friends and mentors visit the bakery.
Our small venture has also found a niche online. It made me realize how people prioritized food over any other necessity. People have prioritized the need for nutrition and health through food. Moreover, the timeless relationship Pinoys have over pandesal remains a revelation. Many things have changed over the past few decades, but nothing can replace the traditional Pinoy morning date with the ubiquitous pandesal.
Spending time with family is always a wonderful experience.
My time with Okada Manila, my education, and the important lessons I have learned through people I look up to have been instrumental in what I am today. I attribute the continued success (both in my career and in my personal life) I have received to these three things.
To echo William Ernest Henley’s “Invictus,” we are indeed the captain of our souls. And we should never allow the various circumstances to rule over us. I am glad I have learned from many mentors and colleagues from different fields. I owe all my victories to them. And finally, I give back all the glory and honor to my Creator.
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Stay up-to-date with the latest announcements and information about Okada Manila’s “True Clean. True Safe. True Heart.” campaign by visiting okadamanila.com/3T
