Beauty in Change
Nikki Tang shares her story and her unwavering commitment to empowering women in the workplace
While fads come and go in the beauty industry, major player Nikki Tang states: “Trust your vision, even if it’s not the current trend.” Her determination and relentless efforts to stand out puts her as a pioneer who helps shape her sector’s landscape.
As the founder of DMark Beauty, Tang’s rise to leadership is a testament to her commitment to adapt. One of the company’s turning points gave rise to DermAsia, a provider of state-of-the-art medical equipment here in the Philippines, and turning to the online world for advancement. According to Tang, this move was strategic: “It wasn’t just
“Trust your vision, even if it’s not the current trend”
foresight; it was about bold action during times of uncertainty. When the world was forced to press pause, we pressed forward with digital transformation.”
This growth placed DMark Beauty on top of its game and redefined clinical skincare and cosmetic services in the Philippines. Tang also headed the online transformation effort in the trying times of the pandemic, establishing new standards for the sector with the cyber aspect. Tang notes, “My journey has shown that when you lead with conviction and clarity of vision, the industry doesn’t just follow; it evolves.”
For Tang, agility and empathy are the keys to success as a chief executive officer in the aesthetics world. With a business that demands well-rounded leaders, she demonstrates that she is a captain with strategy and heart. Empathy is the “soul of operations”. Tang states, “It’s not about making decisions from an ivory tower; it’s about getting into the trenches and understanding the pulse of both our clients and our team. This means listening to the unspoken, interpreting the market’s whispers, and anticipating needs before they become vocal demands.”
There will always be challenges ahead for women in business. For Tang, it is crucial to change the definition of leadership itself. More than the traditional sense of the word, it’s about showcasing that feminine qualities such as empathy, collaboration and nurturing can also be powerful drivers of success.
Tang is an example of one committed to making a difference in her field and beyond. She aims to inspire the next generation and redefine what it means to be a leader.
With a vision that leverages the perspectives of women, Grace Vera Cruz, Country Head of Grab Philippines, embodies the mantra, “Diversity of thought is crucial for innovation”, in leading her organisation to new heights. This principle advocates for a more inclusive and holistic environment, establishing Grab as a beacon of progress.
Taking the helm of the business in 2020, amid the pandemic, Vera Cruz has skillfully navigated Grab Philippines through unprecedented challenges in tech and transportation. Her adept leadership transformed the company during a period when adaptability and innovation were crucial. Joining during such a critical time, her leadership has underscored the importance of bringing women to the forefront, not merely for equity but as the best strategy to address the needs of a diverse clientele. “The true measure of any role should be based solely on competency, character and the impact one brings to the table,” Vera Cruz asserts, challenging the outdated norms and fostering a culture where meritocracy drives progress, thereby ensuring the company’s resilience and growth through uncertain times.
One of the cornerstones of her leadership philosophy is the empowerment of women within the organisation. By cultivating a community that supports women’s growth, mentorship and leadership, Vera Cruz has ensured that Grab is more than a workplace. It is a platform for women to excel, lead and inspire. “Our women’s community at Grab is not just a network but a supportive system,” she elaborates.
This commitment extends beyond internal policies, aiming to create ripple effects across the community and industry, advocating for change and challenging stereotypes. Initiatives like GrabAsenso underscore this broader mission by focusing on livelihood creation, education, upskilling and fostering an inclusive culture that values gender equality. Through GrabAsenso, Vera Cruz seeks not only to elevate women within Grab but also to integrate these principles into the very fabric of the organisation, offering tools, opportunities, and support systems that empower all partners to grow and succeed in the digital economy.
Looking ahead, Vera Cruz envisions a future where the role of women in tech and leadership is not just normalised but celebrated for the unique insights and innovations they bring. “Women will not only shape the technological landscape but also redefine what it means to be a leader in the digital age,” she predicts, envisioning an era where diversity and inclusion are not just goals but the foundations of a thriving, innovative business landscape.
“Women will not only shape the technological landscape but also redefine what it means to be a leader in the digital age”