Q and A with Ihra from Manila, Philippines

“…every challenge, every late night, and every tough decision has taught me that I am stronger than I ever thought possible.”

Q: What are you passionate about?

A: I have been in the talent acquisition field for over a decade now and have been managing people from the junior level up to those who have been in the industry longer than I have. One of the most rewarding aspects of being a manager is watching your team grow and succeed.

I’m passionate about mentoring, coaching, and helping individuals unlock their potential. I find great satisfaction in identifying someone’s strengths, nurturing their talents, and guiding them toward achieving their personal and professional goals.

I believe that a positive work environment is crucial for success. I’m passionate about cultivating a culture where people feel respected, motivated, and empowered. This includes advocating for work-life balance, promoting diversity and inclusion, and ensuring open communication within the team.

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Q: What were your younger years like?

A: I grew up in a close-knit family that emphasized the importance of education, hard work, and kindness. My parents were my first role models; they taught me the values of perseverance, dedication, and empathy.

Growing up, we weren’t wealthy, but we were rich in love, support, and encouragement. My parents always made sure that I had access to good education and opportunities to explore my interests.

Academically, I was always driven. I loved learning and excelled in my studies, often pushing myself to be at the top of my class. Subjects like English and Mathematics fascinated me because they allowed me to understand people and cultures, while math and science challenged my analytical skills. Education was more than just a means to an end—it was a way to explore the world and my place in it.

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Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?

A: One of the most important things I’ve learned is the power of resilience. Life as a single mother can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. But every challenge, every late night, and every tough decision has taught me that I am stronger than I ever thought possible.

Resilience isn’t about never falling; it’s about getting back up every time. One of the hardest lessons I had to learn was that asking for help doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re human. Whether it’s leaning on family, friends, or community resources, reaching out for support is a strength, not a weakness.

It’s easy to feel like you’re falling short when juggling so many roles, but remember that you are enough just as you are. The love, effort, and dedication you pour into your family and work are what truly matter. Your journey doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s to be valid and valuable.

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Q: What does feminism mean to you? 

A: To me, feminism means advocating for equality, respect, and the freedom for all individuals—especially women—to make choices that align with their values, ambitions, and needs without judgment or restriction. It’s about breaking down the barriers that have historically limited women’s opportunities and recognizing the diverse ways in which women contribute to society, both inside and outside the home.

Feminism, to me, is about embracing the full spectrum of what it means to be a woman today—strong, vulnerable, ambitious, nurturing, and unapologetically ourselves. It’s about fighting for a better world not just for ourselves, but for future generations.

MORE FROM IHRA: As I always say: Travel like there’s no tomorrow. Dance as if no one is watching. Laugh until your jaw hurts. And love as if it’s your first and last.

Thanks for reading!

Contact me:

LinkedIn Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ihrapoblador/)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ihrabells0408