Defying expectations, going out of her comfort zone: MR goes where she is most needed

“I feel like ZFF has been investing in me even before I joined the Foundation.” This is how Mary Rose Jean Andrada-Poa feels about her journey to Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF)—a destination she was always bound to reach.

MR is the only child of an Ilongga nurse and an Ilocano Philippine Marine member. She hails from Zamboanga City, where her parents met and eventually chose to settle down. She has always been a star pupil, so she was “groomed to want to be a doctor.”

Her career path was made clear to her. Her parents acquired an educational plan so she can pursue college in one of the ‘big four’ universities. But life has its twists and turns, no matter how one person prepares for the future. The educational plan turned to dust because of a scandal. With inadequate finances to support her studies in Manila, MR decided to stay in Ateneo de Zamboanga as a scholar.

While this change in the choice of university came out of necessity, to everyone’s surprise, MR also chose a different career path. Instrumental to this life-changing decision was a summer program in 2004 where she got to see the other side of the world in Illinois, USA. MR shared “habang tinitingnan ko ang school system nila, the thought that came to my mind was not to live there. Naisip ko bakit hindi pwedeng maging ganito sa Pilipinas?”

That moment also led her to realize that it is not her heart’s desire to be a doctor. The thought of catering to individuals who can pay for her services simply did not appeal to her. In her heart, she knew that she had to take the path where she is most needed, and MR knew that private practice as a doctor was not it.

MR chose education. “I realized that I want to develop minds and teach,” MR shared. A lot of people tried to dissuade her, including her parents. There was even a point when she became a subject of ridicule because of her choice. She was bullied and called names—crazy and coward to name a few. “Kahit ganoon, hindi ko siya pinagsisihan. I always remind myself to go where you are most needed. The best place for me to serve would be as a teacher,” MR said with utmost conviction.

Going after her heart’s desire

MR’s journey in Ateneo was never easy. Oftentimes, she would feel like a fish out of water, but the years she spent in Ateneo also affirmed that teaching is what she was called to do.

Ateneo hired MR to join the faculty as soon as she graduated. It was fulfilling, but something seemed to be missing. “Sabi ko, okay nagtuturo ako, I am teaching Ateneo college students—mga estudyanteng nakakaangat sa buhay. Doon ko tinanong, do I want to stay in the four corners of a classroom?” That longing led MR to venture out and to accept service loads focused on social development. Soon enough, MR learned about the Ateneo Center for Leadership and Governance (ACLG) and it started her long journey with Bridging Leadership.

In 2013, ACLG was chosen by ZFF as an academic partner in Region 9 for the Municipal Leadership and Governance Program. ACLG started grooming her as part of the roster of ZFF’s Bridging Leader (BL) faculty. With this new partnership, MR found out that it is possible to extend her service to people in the community.

“Sa students kasi nabibitin ako. I teach them theories and repetitive lessons. Parang walang mayadong impact yet. This is not what I wanted to do. I often asked what can I do to multiply myself and help form people who have direct impacts on their communities?” MR shared. That’s when MR fell in love with Bridging Leadership. Since she learned about BL, it became a part of her.

Extending self through ZFF

2016 was a year of life-changing decisions for MR. She got married and eventually decided to move to Manila with her husband. An offer came from ZFF and it practically made sense given her background.

“Since I was introduced to BL in 2013, parang hinanda na ako. I feel like ZFF has been investing in me even before I joined ZFF.” The academic partner exposure and her background in education in Mindanao all made sense to her. ZFF’s mission and vision aligned with her personal values and to her mantra of going where she is most needed.

Having knowledge about ZFF prior to joining the organization did not mean an easy road for MR. Challenges came but she saw them as necessary learning opportunities. She embraced her own limitations as someone without a background in public health and community work. MR would always see herself lacking credibility and that she “was still teaching theory.”

“I felt that the examples and experiences I share would always be hollow because I was sharing examples from the books and from what I hear, not from what I experienced myself,” shared MR.

This challenge prompted MR to make a difficult decision in 2018. She gave up her position—her comfort zone—to manage a program on resilience. It was a perfect opportunity for her to see what is happening on the ground. “I was getting out of my comfort zone, but I needed to do that para hindi ako parang basag na lata. I needed to experience working in the field and practicing BL with LGU partners.”

Since the program had a limited budget, MR had to take on all positions in an operating unit—training, formation, monitoring and evaluation, and overall management. It was a difficult but necessary growing experience. “It was difficult, but I had a blast learning.” Throughout her journey in ZFF, MR stretched herself in so many ways and that included joining another team in 2019, the Knowledge Management Group. “This is always my nature. I always challenge myself to learn new skills for personal growth and to become a better BL practitioner. I also respond to what the organization needs from me.”

As ZFF grew as an organization, MR also grew as a person. “I see myself doing what is aligned with ZFF’s vision. I don’t know where my next plans would take me. Saan man ako dalhin, extension na ng sarili ko ang ZFF.”

MR looked for an organization that would allow her to extend herself outside her reach as a teacher. She found more than that in ZFF. It stretched her capacity, affirmed her values, and encouraged her to challenge the status quo. It allowed her to see what goes beyond what she already knows and what she can already do.

After all, growing takes place when you get out of your comfort zone, when you defy conventions, and when you take the road less traveled.

A journey of grit: how Reese found her calling at ZFF

Therese Solinap grew up in a close-knit family in Antipolo, Rizal, the youngest among four siblings. With her father working at Don Bosco School Manila in Sta. Mesa, she and her brothers managed to study through scholarships and the school community’s support. She learned early on the importance of gratitude and perseverance. “Laging tinuturo ng tatay ko na mag-thank you. Kapag meron, meron. Kapag wala, didiskarte. Gano’n ‘yung buhay namin,” Reese recalls.

Growing up, Reese faced the pressure of being the ‘only girl’ in the family. Her parents were strict when she was growing up, with limited room to voice her opinions, forcing her to navigate her emotions alone. “Grade school pa lang, napilitan na akong maging adult,” she says. 

Taking charge of her own future

After completing senior high school, Reese was uncertain about what college degree to pursue. But she pushed through and chose Psychology, motivated by the thought of landing a job to help support herself.

During the pandemic, her independence was tested further when she had to undergo surgery for a breast lump. She reached out to friends and the college community for assistance, a big step for someone who rarely asks for help. But Reese was overwhelmed by the support from her college community and high school friends, allowing her to undergo the procedure successfully. In November 2020, she made a brave decision to leave home and live with her partner in Manila, choosing her well-being over family expectations.

By the time she was looking for an internship, she stumbled upon Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) almost by chance. “Nag-share ako sa group na wala pa akong nahahanap na OJT (On-the-Job Training). Sabi ng friend ko, saluhin ko na lang ‘yung company na hindi niya kukunin. It turned out to be ZFF,” Reese shares with a laugh. Despite feeling nervous during the interview, Reese was accepted, marking the start of her journey with ZFF.

During Reese’s first encounter with ZFF as an intern in 2021, she viewed the Foundation as just a place to complete her 600 internship hours while juggling her college requirements. However, she quickly realized that the HR environment was something she genuinely enjoyed. After completing her internship, Reese got a call from ZFF offering her a consultancy role in HR. By January 2023, she was a direct hire and landed her first full-time job even before graduating—an achievement she considers a turning point in her career.

Thriving despite challenges

Working at ZFF has been a learning curve for Reese, especially in recruitment. She recalls moments when she felt overwhelmed, often breaking down in frustration. “Naiyak ako no’n. Ang dami kasing vacancies na hirap kaming mapunuan. Kailangan ko nang magtino,” she recalls. These tough moments pushed her to be more proactive, adaptive, and resourceful. “Kailangan laging one step ahead.”

Reese’s understanding of the Foundation’s mission deepened as she took on more responsibilities, including conducting orientations for new hires. Initially, she struggled with complex topics like the devolution of the healthcare system. But over time, she learned alongside her work, gaining a better appreciation of ZFF’s focus on healthcare and community service.

Now two years into her role at ZFF, Reese is focused on her growth within the organization. She aspires to deepen her expertise in HR and is working towards becoming a Certified HR Professional. 

Reese sees herself growing alongside ZFF, and she is excited about what lies ahead. “Siksik, liglig at umaapaw ‘yung natututunan ko,” she says. Her vision is clear: to continue learning, help strengthen the HR team, and contribute to ZFF’s mission of empowering communities.

“I am very much willing to continue my journey with ZFF,” she concludes. “Hopefully, as I grow, mas makakatulong ako sa HR, and HR can continue supporting other units, who then continue serving the community. It’s a cycle of growth and support.”

A purpose-driven life: Sherill Cutin’s story of service

Sherill Cutin was born and raised in Tacloban, Leyte, in a family of five siblings. Her father passed away when she was only seven, leaving her mother to raise them alone. 

From a young age, she learned about integrity, resilience, and the value of hard work by watching her mom. Her mom’s dedication pushed her to become responsible early on, thinking, “I have to be independent to help my family.” This drive to build a better future became her foundation.

Growing up, Sherill dreamed of becoming a nurse. “Sa slambook no’ng elementary, even in high school, palagi kong sinasagot na aspiration ay ‘to become a nurse someday’.” But limited resources meant she had to take a different path, eventually earning a degree in commerce.

In college, she felt drawn to community work, joining volunteer groups and learning how to empower people through education and advocacy. Her first job was with an NGO focused on adolescent and youth sexual and reproductive health, a challenging role that taught her valuable skills and cemented her desire to help communities.

For Sherill, one thought always guides her in community work: “Feeling ko no’n we are left behind sa probinsya. Kung hindi ka magtyatyaga, magpupursigi, walang mangyayari.” That is why every time she is in the field, she strives to ensure that communities are not just present but fully engaged. “Kasama dapat sila,” she emphasizes, recognizing that real change happens when communities themselves are involved in shaping their own solutions.

A calling to serve: joining Zuellig Family Foundation

In 2021, she joined the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF). After the pandemic hit, Sherill had to prioritize her family, especially her child and her mother.  ZFF’s work-from-home option allowed her to stay close to her loved ones while continuing her passion for social work.

Sherill reflects on her journey with gratitude. The concept of Bridging Leadership in ZFF—Ownership, Co-Ownership, and Co-Creation—is especially meaningful to her. Working closely with communities and stakeholders, she sees how ZFF fosters collaboration and innovative solutions to healthcare challenges. 

She is deeply grateful for the support she’s received from her ZFF project team. Their guidance through coaching, mentoring, and technical assistance has been invaluable throughout her journey. She appreciates the trust they’ve shown her, making each challenge a worthwhile learning experience. “Sa ZFF, may support at may puso,” she says.

Sherill has faced her share of obstacles, from unstable internet in the field to the constant learning curve in a demanding environment. Working with diverse stakeholders also adds to the challenge, as each has different needs and perspectives. But she sees these hurdles as growth opportunities.  ZFF has shown her the bigger picture, helping her go deeper into healthcare’s role in uplifting communities. 

Continuing the advocacy

Sherill closes with a sense of purpose: “Kahit hindi ako naging nurse, I have contributed to and will continue improving the conditions of children and women. My goal is to empower them. I aspire to help create a society where no one is left behind, at ramdam ng bawat isa, especially the vulnerable population, ‘yung impact ng health services.” For her, true empowerment means making a difference in the lives of others by addressing inequities and improving access to healthcare.

Looking to the future, Sherill hopes to continue making a positive impact within ZFF, while sharing her advocacy for health and community empowerment even outside the organization. Her guiding philosophy is simple: “Approach life with purpose.” To her, working in the development sector may be tough, but knowing she has helped others is worth every challenge.

Passion and perseverance: Mizel Baconawa’s story of growth at ZFF

“I am ‘laking Bicolana’,” Mizel Baconawa narrates, “the youngest of five siblings.” Life took a tough turn when her father passed away when she was just 13, leaving her mom, a housewife, to manage everything.

As the years went on, Mizel quickly learned how to be independent. College was not easy, but she pushed through with the help of a scholarship from being part of the school’s majorettes and dance troupe, and with support from her sister. After graduating, her main focus was finding a job to help her family, especially her mother.

Her first job took her to a fast-food restaurant in Quezon City, but the homesickness was too much, so she returned to Bicol. Soon after, she found out she was pregnant. Everything changed. She moved to Manila and started working in a pharmacy while pregnant to still be able to send money home. She continues, “After my pregnancy, we had our own botika (pharmacy) with the help of my partner’s sister. I took in my mother and one of my brothers.”

Years later, a chance encounter with the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) led her to apply for a job. At first, she didn’t know much about the foundation, but she was eager to join because of her background in medicine. 

She started as an encoder but quickly learned and grew, eventually taking on roles that involved working with staff and different local government units (LGUs). For Mizel, what stood out was the welcoming and equal atmosphere at ZFF, where everyone, despite their busy schedules, always found time to talk, laugh, and support one another.

Commitment, growth, and a love for the job

Mizel’s work ethic is inspiring. She recalls times when, even while out shopping or traveling, she would still be coordinating work tasks and making sure things got done. She became known as someone who was always available to help—whether it was coordinating with vendors or handling urgent requests. “I’m the one who doesn’t know how to say no when it comes to work,” she says.

One of the proudest moments in her career was passing the NC III Bookkeeping Certification, thanks to the support and mentoring she received at ZFF. It was a challenging journey, especially moving from admin to finance roles, but she pushed herself to learn new skills.

Looking back, Mizel is grateful for the opportunities and growth ZFF has given her. She is proud to have contributed to a foundation that helps improve healthcare in underprivileged communities. Even though her role is mostly in the office, she feels connected to the bigger mission—knowing that the work she does supports the staff who are out in the field making a difference.

Mizel’s philosophy is simple: “When you love your job and you are happy at work, you can do anything. No excuses, no exemptions.” Her commitment to her work and family drives her forward, and she is determined to keep growing and helping others in the years to come.

From shadow to light: Donna Divinagracia’s role in ZFF’s mission

Donna Divinagracia grew up as the only girl among her siblings, raised with a mix of values from her parents. Her dad taught her to be independent, observant, and street-smart, always reminding her to stay curious and ask questions. Her mom, while often busy with work, instilled in her the importance of perseverance, appreciating what she had, and showing compassion to others.

One moment that shaped her outlook was during her early childhood graduation when her parents couldn’t attend, and the City Mayor stepped in to receive her award. Another key memory was being chosen as a “little teacher” for two consecutive years in high school, where she got to teach her classmates. These experiences taught her that learning happens not just through books but from real-life experiences and sharing knowledge with others.

Early lessons

“I found it hard to decide on what career path I should take.” She initially pursued Information Technology but shifted to Accounting, thinking she would avoid the late nights in front of a computer. Ironically, she ended up burning the midnight oil over ledgers and books instead. Financial challenges during her college years did not stop her from reaching her goals, thanks to scholarships and the support of people who believed in her.

Her first job at Jollibee as an Assistant Marketing Officer gave her crucial life lessons. She learned how to be a team player, listen to others, and take pride in helping people leave with a smile, not just a full stomach. Those experiences helped her realize she wanted to make a difference in people’s lives, even in small ways.

Joining Zuellig Family Foundation and personal growth

Donna’s journey to the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) began during the pandemic in 2021. Looking for a company closer to home and aligned with her values, she stumbled upon ZFF’s website. The foundation’s mission to “enhance the quality of life of the Filipino” resonated with her deeply. 

Starting as a Finance Assistant, she is now a Finance Associate, and her role has grown significantly. She is proud to be part of something bigger, working in the background for The Challenge Initiative (TCI) aimed at improving access to reproductive health for urban poor communities. “Ang daming kababayan ang hindi nabibigyan ng chance to choose for their future. Mula sa pag-aasawa ng maaga at pagkakaroon ng anak sa murang edad. Even though I am not working on the ground, I am part of making the project fulfill its mission in different cities all over the country. Through my work even though I see myself as a shadow, I am given a chance to give light to a greater purpose.”

Despite the challenges—losing her father during her first year at ZFF and working through the pandemic—Donna remains inspired by the foundation’s efforts to bring healthcare services closer to Filipinos, especially those in underserved areas. For her, working at ZFF is not just a job. It is a chance to be part of a mission that creates lasting impact.

Her personal philosophy, inspired by the Japanese concept of ‘ikigai’ or ‘reason for being’ keeps her grounded and motivated. Donna hopes to continue growing in her role, gaining more knowledge, and helping to solve industry problems, all while staying focused on making a real difference in the lives of others. “I am honored to be part of this endeavor—closing the gap, overcoming challenges and giving opportunities to fellow Filipinos to achieve a quality life.”

Learning, leading, and serving: Mayie Hilapad’s career at ZFF

Growing up in a small town in New Lucena, Iloilo, Marienelle Hilapad’s life was all about school. She didn’t have many childhood memories outside of academics, always prioritizing school work before anything else. “Wala akong masyadong matandaan, halos acads lang talaga ako. ‘Yung tipong diretso agad gumawa ng homework bago manood ng TV,” she recalls with humor.

Mayie excelled in elementary school, graduating as Salutatorian. It was during this time she first thought of becoming an accountant, but later, her path shifted toward science when she attended the Philippine Science High School in Western Visayas.

Finding a path in public health

Mayie had always aspired to study at the University of the Philippines (UP), so when she was accepted with a scholarship, it was a dream come true. “‘Di na rin ako nag-apply sa ibang college. UP or nothing.” She initially wanted to take up public health as a pre-med course, but her journey took her to community public health. This shift gave her a new perspective on healthcare, and it opened the doors to her current work in public health.

Her first encounter with Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) came through her thesis project, Project Halungan ang Tagipusuon sang mga Taga-Jolason (Protect the Hearts of the People of Jolason) or “Project HARTT”—a community-based health promotion program. ZFF’s involvement was a pivotal moment. After graduation, she quickly landed a role as a field assistant to Catherine Mandigma of the Strategy and Partnerships Unit at ZFF helping with key informant interviews and focus group discussions. This hands-on experience marked the beginning of her ZFF journey.

Thriving at ZFF

In October 2023, Mayie officially joined ZFF as a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Assistant under the Provincial Leadership and Governance Program (PLGP). Initially, she felt overwhelmed, especially since she had to engage with people face-to-face despite being an introvert. “We have to outgrow our boundaries, because we have to provide the requirements of our job.”

With the mentorship of leaders in her unit, the ZFF Local Health Systems Portfolio, she learned the importance of leadership, teamwork, and the standards ZFF holds itself to. “Walang pahapyaw lang na work, we always strive for the best implementation.”

One of the most fulfilling experiences for Mayie was seeing the impact of ZFF’s programs with local leaders. Through executive coaching and deep dive (guided immersion), she realized the importance of community participation and involvement in addressing health issues, including mental health. The way ZFF’s interventions empowered local leaders to improve healthcare outcomes truly inspired her.

Though Mayie is considering going to medical school, her work at ZFF has shown her that public health is not just a stepping stone to medicine—it’s a calling in itself. Helping communities achieve better health outcomes through preventive care and leadership training has been fulfilling for her. The lessons she’s learned and the mentors who guided her made her realize the importance of this work in the country’s overall healthcare system.

“Sa ngayon, nakikita ko ‘yung sarili ko sa ZFF. Nafu-fulfill ‘yung gusto ko na tumulong sa community kahit hindi ako mag-medicine.” She knows there’s still so much to learn and contribute, and she is driven by the thought that wherever she goes, she will carry the values and the ‘ZFF standards’. She often hears the affirmation, “Ah magaling ‘yan kasi ZFF,” reminding her of the impact she can make through her work.

From Marikina to making a difference: Dane’s journey with ZFF

Danielle Cada grew up in Marikina, a daughter of factory workers. When her dad passed away in 2015, her family moved to Muntinlupa. From a young age, she was driven by a desire to improve her family’s situation. When her dad suffered from kidney failure and needed dialysis, her family would often reach out to politicians to help subsidize the cost, which sparked her interest in health equity and access to medical services.

Initially unsure of what career to pursue, Dane followed in her sister’s footsteps in human resources. “Undecided talaga ako kung anong course, gusto ko lang ng trabaho na makikipagbigay sa’kin ng ‘okay’ na kita,” Dane said. But her first job, where she handled recruitment, did not sit well with her values—especially when asked to prioritize clients’ demands over labor laws. She stayed for nine months before seeking out something more meaningful.

Growing with the Zuellig Family Foundation

In 2019, she stumbled upon a job opening at Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) through JobStreet. Though she was not familiar with the Foundation at the time, the application process went smoothly, and she soon joined as an HR assistant. Early on, Dane found herself struggling to understand what ZFF did, but through the help of her supervisors and training, she learned the ropes and saw the larger purpose behind their work. 

Dane’s time at ZFF has been a journey of growth, both personally and professionally. She moved from HR Assistant to Associate and eventually became an HR Expert. “Hindi lang s’ya business as usual, may business unusual.” ZFF even supported her in pursuing a second degree. 

But it was not just about the career milestones—ZFF opened her eyes to the complexities of healthcare in the Philippines. She vividly remembers a project in Sultan Kudarat, interviewing teenage mothers, which completely changed her perspective on adolescent pregnancy. What once seemed like a simple issue revealed deeper societal and economic roots.

Overcoming challenges and future aspirations

Working at ZFF also came with challenges. As part of the HR team, she had to handle all sorts of emotions from staff, from anger to calmness. There were tough moments, like when her colleague resigned in 2020, leaving Dane to shoulder more responsibilities. But instead of giving up, she pushed through, driven by her hunger to learn and grow. “If hindi ka committed to learn, mapapagod ka talaga. Kung gusto mo namang matuto, at willing ka mag-sacrifice, matututo ka talaga.” She credits her supervisors for guiding and challenging her, which ultimately helped her thrive in the demanding environment. 

Looking ahead, Dane plans to pursue a Master’s degree and continue working in the development sector. For her, ZFF is more than just a job. It’s a place that has shaped her, both professionally and personally, and allowed her to contribute to something bigger than herself. 

She dreams of a future where all Filipinos can access health services easily, something her own family struggled with. “Just thinking na wala nang family ang makaka-experience ng gano’n—namomroblema kung paano, mangungulit sa politiko—iba yung kasiyahan na mabibigay n’ya sa’kin.” Knowing that she’s helping build that future is what keeps her going every day. 

Navigating challenges and change: Mel’s story with ZFF

Melanie Reyes, the youngest of three siblings, grew up in a family where both parents are government employees. Her arrival was unexpected, with a big age gap between her and her older siblings, eight and ten years. Originally, Mel’s family hoped she would become a doctor. She mentally conditioned herself to be a doctor or veterinarian. She got into a school specializing in medicine but was advised by her father to study in a school closer to their home. Ultimately, she chose Economics but later switched to Sociology when she found the Accounting subjects difficult. 

Career beginnings and turning points

Her first job was assisting with a big conference for then Ambassador Roberto R. Romulo, who would later become the founding chair of the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) in 2008. She handled speaker arrangements and conference giveaways, and her performance impressed the team, leading to a more permanent role. This experience taught her about managing events and dealing with people, which influenced her career path.

“I can pinpoint the exact moment when Triple R (referring to Romulo) became aware of my existence,” Mel recalls one morning she arrived early to work, and answered a call from Romulo. “I took down his instructions, and relayed the message to his Executive Assistant (EA) at that time. I later found out that he found my voice pleasant.” 

In 2001, in addition to Mel’s project officer duties, Mel was asked to assist Romulo’s EA. Whenever his EA was sick, Mel would fill in. Eventually, his EA had to go on medical leave and later migrated to Australia. Mel then stepped in as Romulo’s EA in 2006 and continued in that role until his death in 2022, serving him for 16 years.

Joining and growing with ZFF

The years 2021 and 2022 were particularly turbulent for Mel, marked by personal losses including the death of her brother in May 2021 and Romulo in January 2022, who had become a grandfather figure to her. In March 2022, Mel started working full-time at the ZFF head office. Later that year, in November, the Administration and Finance Director retired, and Mel was asked to handle the administrative function, ultimately assuming the role of Administration Manager.

Despite the workload and challenges, she chose to stay, drawn by the opportunity to work with a larger team and contribute to meaningful projects. “It can be overwhelming at times but I have learned so much from ZFF,” she says.

Mel’s work at ZFF has broadened her perspective on healthcare and community service. “Many organizations are focused on poverty, on education. Only a few are focusing on health. We’ve managed to carve a unique space for ourselves.”  Witnessing the stark contrast between public and private hospital conditions has been eye-opening, teaching her valuable lessons about tackling health inequities in underserved communities.  About ZFF’s push for systemic changes in health, Mel says,  “We are teaching them how to fish, not just giving them fish. Achieving meaningful change requires addressing various interconnected factors.”

Mel feels ZFF’s legacy will continue through the impact of its lessons imparted to communities. “Structures can fade and crumble, but the knowledge and skills we impart, I hope, will be deeply ingrained, practiced, shared, and passed on. These concepts extend beyond health and can be applied to all aspects of life.”  

Rooted in service: Rob’s story of growth at ZFF

Roberto Nazal grew up in a family involved in community service. His parents started a social enterprise called Nazal Halfway Home in the late ‘60s, which provided care and support for discharged psychiatric patients. 

From a young age, Rob and his siblings were expected to help out with daily chores and activities at the halfway home. His mother, a registered nurse, taught them the importance of hard work and compassion. One lesson that stayed with Rob was, “Kapag alam ninyo ang trabaho at magpakita ng malasakit sa hanapbuhay, tutularan kayo ng mga manggagawa sa Home.”

Finding purpose

As a child, Rob didn’t have clear career aspirations, largely because his mother hoped he would become a pastor. He supported this dream quietly, even though he didn’t have a specific career goal himself. It wasn’t until he reached university that Rob discovered his passion for service and social work.

Rob studied Social Work at University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman, influenced by his mother and a sister who were both involved in the field. His mom took Masteral courses and his sister took electives in Social Work in the same school. “The courses, the theories, perspectives and practice models felt like an extension of what I was doing in support of my parents’ Home, but with endless career possibilities.” 

During his studies, he interned with organizations helping children affected by political repression and worked with the Iraya Mangyan community in Mindoro. These experiences solidified his interest in development work.

His first job was as a Team Leader for a faith-based Non-Government Organization (NGO), where he worked on community development projects for small fisherfolk in Batangas. This role introduced him to the world of development and partnerships, shaping his future career path in the field.

Leading with heart and vision

“The death of my father in the early ‘90s was a turning point in my life and career,” Rob shares. He stepped in to support his mother and manage the Nazal Halfway Home’s operations. During this time, he pursued a Master’s degree in Master Industrial Relations (MIR) major in Human Resource Development (HRD), which helped him balance operations and management roles in various sectors.

Rob has over 20 years of experience working in partnerships and programs. Along the way, he’s worked with NGOs like Philippines Business for Social Progress (PBSP) and ABS-CBN Foundation, as well as international NGOs like Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO), OXFAM, and World Vision. He also spent time in companies practicing corporate social responsibility, such as Globe Telecom, BPI-Globe Banko, and Globe Fintech Innovations Inc. (Gcash). He has also shared his expertise by teaching Social Work at UP Diliman.

Rob first learned about Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF) through his former boss at PBSP. At a ZFF Colloquium gathering Local Chief Executives (LCEs) in 2016, he remembers thinking, “How come these LCEs are talking like development practitioners? What is this new breed of politicians I am seeing? Are they for real?”

He later joined the organization in 2020, initially as Director for Human Resources (HR). Over time, his role expanded to include Management Information Systems (MIS), and Administration.

At ZFF, Rob found fulfillment in several projects, particularly the HR strategy approved in 2021, which improved performance management and introduced a hybrid work policy. He also played a key role in launching the HR Management System and the Shared Services Procurement model.

Rob values the training and mentorship culture at ZFF, which aligns with his passion for developing people.  He recalls a line from his favorite movie: “Nobody is perfect. Everyone has their own little idiosyncrasies. Some people call those imperfections, but no, that is the good stuff.” As Director of the HR, MIS, and Administration (HRMISA) at ZFF, Rob says, “I wish that people will accept that there is no perfect organization and that in ZFF’s imperfections, they will find the good stuff.”

Rob hopes to stay with ZFF for the long term. Believing that health is a right that must be enjoyed by all, he sees ZFF’s work crucial in addressing health inequities. He says, “There are non-profits which are content with doing things because of a bleeding heart for the poor and disadvantaged, but ZFF is a different Health NGO.”