Taking risks is never easy, but sometimes, it’s the only way to unlock true success. For Lourds Adalia-Evertse, moving to a foreign country at 19 was not just a career move—it was a leap of faith that led to a fulfilling journey of resilience, perseverance, and purpose. Today, as the Co-founder and Managing Partner of Spice Grill, she reflects on the challenges and triumphs that shaped her into the entrepreneur she is now.
Lourds arrived in Dubai straight out of college, determined to carve her own path. “My first job was as a receptionist in a hotel,” she recalls to The Global Filipino Magazine. “That experience laid the foundation for my career.” Over time, she became one of the founding members of the largest business setup company in the region, dedicating a decade to the corporate world. But despite her professional growth, she felt a calling to take a different path. “I realized that if I didn’t take the risk, I would never know if I could succeed.” That leap of faith led her to co-found Spice Grill, a thriving Asian fusion restaurant chain known for its ‘Pinoy Soul Food’ and comforting seafood and meat dishes across the UAE.
Growing up in a family where working abroad was the norm, Lourds knew early on that she was destined to build a career overseas. “In my family culture, when older siblings go abroad, it’s common for the younger ones to follow and help support the family,” she shares. Just three weeks after graduating, she took the plunge and moved to Dubai. “I was young and eager to prove myself,” she adds.
Despite the excitement of working abroad, the road was far from smooth. “I came here at a young age and started my career from the ground up,” she recalls. While she was building her career, life threw her one of its hardest challenges—the loss of her parents. “Losing them was incredibly painful, especially being far from home. But my husband stood by me, offering unwavering support,” she shares. Through her pain, she found strength, channeling her energy into her career and later, her own business.
Running a restaurant is no small feat, but for Lourds, it is deeply fulfilling. “Being a restaurant owner gives me a sense of purpose as I create job opportunities for others,” she explains. Spice Grill has expanded across the UAE, with locations in Al Majaz Waterfront in Sharjah, Flayva in Al Ghurair Centre in Dubai, and the newly opened Burjuman Mall branch. “I love the hospitality industry and seeing our business grow is incredibly satisfying,” she says with pride.
Working overseas has also been an enriching experience for Lourds. “I appreciate the diversity and the countless opportunities available abroad,” she shares. The exposure to different cultures and perspectives has shaped her both professionally and personally.
As for the future, she envisions staying in the UAE for now but ultimately retiring in the Philippines. “One day, I’d love to go back and reconnect with my roots,” she says. While she’s still on her entrepreneurial journey, she remains passionate about helping others find their way. Her advice to fellow OFWs is simple but powerful: “Believe in yourself and cultivate trust in your abilities. Have a clear vision of what you want to achieve, and work diligently toward that goal. Perseverance and self-belief are your greatest allies.”
For those struggling with doubt, Lourds offers words of encouragement: “If you find yourself doubting your potential, remember that self-doubt can cloud your vision of what you are truly capable of. You possess the strength and ability to achieve remarkable things in life—embrace it!”
