Many professionals seek opportunities beyond their home countries, hoping to expand their horizons and build a better future. This was the case for Lesty Cordova, who left Manila, Philippines, at a young age to work overseas. Her journey in Dubai has been defined by resilience and adaptability, navigating multiple industries that have shaped her into the accomplished professional she is today.
Before moving to Dubai, Lesty worked for a luxury real estate company in Makati. However, she felt the need for something more—a career that would challenge her and allow her to grow in a dynamic, international environment. “Dubai, known as the city of opportunity, felt like the perfect place to challenge myself and unlock my full potential,” she shares with The Global Filipino Magazine. Taking a leap of faith, she packed her bags and embarked on a journey that would change her life forever.
Building a career across multiple industries
Lesty started her Dubai career as an executive secretary in higher management. She then transitioned into the automotive industry, working as a leasing executive for a top German company. Her willingness to learn and adapt led her into the oil and gas sector, where she took on the role of HR generalist. Eventually, she found her true passion in real estate, working as a portfolio investment manager for a leading brokerage firm.
Each role provided her with valuable insights and skills that contributed to her success. “The biggest lesson I learned from these experiences is adaptability and the value of building relationships. Every industry operates differently, but at the core of success is understanding people—whether it’s negotiating a deal, managing clients, or leading a team,” she explains.
Despite the challenges of shifting from one industry to another, Lesty embraced each transition with resilience. “Every new role required me to step out of my comfort zone, learn new skills, and embrace challenges. This mindset became essential when I finally stepped into real estate—an industry that demands persistence, trust-building, and the ability to navigate an ever-changing market.”
Founding Cordova Property Management
With years of experience in real estate, Lesty recognized the challenges property owners face, from managing tenants to navigating complex real estate laws. These challenges inspired her and her co-founder to establish Cordova Property Management. “I put myself in their shoes, understanding their frustrations and concerns, which ultimately inspired me to create a company that truly prioritizes their needs.”
What makes Cordova Property Management stand out is its commitment to client care. “We don’t just manage properties—we protect, enhance, and ensure that every property we handle is well taken care of as if it were our own. Our approach goes beyond transactions; we build trust-based relationships with property owners, providing them with peace of mind and the confidence that their investments are in the right hands.”
Starting a business came with its own set of challenges. Transitioning from an employee to an employer was a significant shift, but perseverance and trust were key in navigating the process. “The unwavering support of my co-founder, who believed in my skills and knowledge, played a crucial role in turning challenges into opportunities. Through dedication, resilience, and a shared vision, we built a company founded on trust, excellence, and long-term growth.”
A heart for the community
Lesty believes in the importance of giving back. Inspired by her late grandfather, Andoy, she follows his lesson: “First, help your parents, and then those in need.” He instilled in her the belief that material things can wear out, but acts of kindness done for God’s will hold true value.
Guided by this wisdom, Lesty actively supports the Filipino community in Dubai. Once a month, she visits labor camps in Jebel Ali, sharing her story and encouraging others to keep striving for their dreams. “Giving back to the community has always been close to my heart. I believe success means nothing if it’s not shared. Whether through mentoring, community outreach, or simply offering a helping hand, I strive to make a difference—just as my grandfather would have wanted.”
Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs
Dubai is known as a city of opportunity, and Lesty firmly believes in its potential. Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is simple yet powerful: “Dreaming big is important, but dreams alone are not enough; you have to take action and continuously raise the bar higher each day. That’s exactly what I did.”
Rather than focusing on distant plans, she prioritizes giving her best effort every day. “I don’t focus too much on planning for the distant future because no one truly knows what it holds. Instead, I make sure that every step I take today is a solid investment for tomorrow. Now, I am reaping the rewards of the hard work and dedication I put in years ago.”
To fellow Filipinos who dream of making it big in Dubai, she offers this advice: “Believe in yourself, take risks, and never stop pushing forward. The journey may not be easy, but Dubai rewards those who are determined, resilient, and willing to put in the work.”
Looking ahead, Lesty has big plans for Cordova Property Management. “Our vision extends far beyond business success—we are committed to creating opportunities that uplift people’s lives. As I always remind my team, ‘Be a good person with integrity. People will know you, and people will talk about you.'”
The company aims to generate more job opportunities while maintaining its commitment to transparency and efficiency. “We ensure that our luxury clients receive nothing less than unparalleled premium experiences. While we have established a strong presence locally, our ambitions are set on a global scale. We are actively working towards international expansion, bringing our expertise and commitment to excellence beyond borders.”
