Most people don’t imagine themselves building mascots for a living, let alone running the operations behind them—but careers, like people, often grow in unexpected directions. Keren Kristi Villaflor didn’t set out to work in sculpture or fabrication when she left the Philippines. What she carried with her instead was a quiet determination to test her limits, learn fast, and stand on her own.
Thirteen years after starting life abroad, Keren is now the Chief Operating Officer of The Mascot Maker Sculpture Works Co. LLC, overseeing a business that blends creativity with logistics, imagination with execution. The role fits her not because it was planned, but because it was earned—piece by piece, skill by skill.
Early lessons in responsibility
Keren’s comfort with responsibility began early, long before she worked overseas. While still a student in the Philippines, she found her first taste of professional life at her grandfather’s law firm. Her parents were hesitant at first, believing her academic load was already demanding, but she insisted on learning how work operated beyond the classroom.
“So, I volunteered to help my mother, who was my grandfather’s secretary, with paperwork and office tasks,” she said. “That’s where I first developed my skills in management and creativity.”
After graduating from college, she briefly worked as an encoder at a telecommunications company while tutoring on the side. Both jobs lasted only a couple of months—not because they failed, but because Keren had already decided her path would take her elsewhere. Opportunities abroad promised something she wanted deeply: growth through discomfort.
“I decided to work abroad because I wanted to challenge myself, learn new things, become independent, and seize opportunities that weren’t available back home,” she explained.
Starting over in a new country
Keren began working overseas more than a decade ago, stepping into an environment that demanded constant adjustment. Her first job abroad, she said, was more challenging than she expected.
“My very first job abroad challenged me in ways I never expected,” she recalled. “It pushed me to grow, adapt, and prove to myself that I could thrive anywhere.”
Cultural differences, unfamiliar work practices, and the pressure to perform all came with the territory. Instead of resisting the discomfort, Keren leaned into it, taking on various roles that allowed her to learn how different industries and teams functioned. Each experience sharpened her adaptability and widened her perspective.
Those early years abroad weren’t just about survival—they were about preparation for something bigger.
Discovering her strengths at The Mascot Maker
Joining The Mascot Maker Sculpture Works marked the most defining chapter of Keren’s career. What stood out immediately wasn’t just the product, but the range of responsibilities she found herself handling.
“This is where I discovered my ability to handle multiple roles at once,” she said. “Learning tailoring, mascot fabrication, client coordination, and so much more. Every day taught me a new skill and revealed strengths I didn’t even know I had.”
Now serving as COO, Keren oversees operations while remaining deeply connected to the creative process. For her, the appeal of the work lies in its balance.
“What I love most about my job is the mix of creativity and strategy,” she shared. “Each mascot we make is unique, and it’s incredibly satisfying to see an idea come to life.”
She chose this field precisely because it allowed her to merge artistic expression with business thinking—a combination that reflects her own versatility. “The best part is knowing that our work brings happiness to others,” she added.
Learning through challenges and mentorship
Living abroad came with its share of struggles. Keren faced the ongoing pressure to prove herself professionally, alongside the subtle challenges of navigating a different culture.
“I managed to get through these challenges by staying persistent, continuously learning, and leaning on mentors, colleagues, and my family for support,” she said.
One figure played a particularly important role in her development: her business partner, MJ. With guidance and trust, Keren learned to take ownership of her work and gain confidence in her decisions.
“With the guidance and support of my business partner, MJ, I’ve learned to be independent and take charge of my career,” she noted. That support, combined with exposure to diverse cultures and ways of working, gave her both financial stability and a stronger belief in her abilities.
Staying present, looking ahead
When asked about long-term plans after working overseas, Keren is refreshingly honest. She isn’t chasing a fixed destination.
“Honestly, I don’t have concrete plans yet,” she said. “Right now, I’m focused on the present—building and growing the business, learning as much as I can, and enjoying the journey.”
That grounded mindset extends to the advice she offers fellow Filipinos abroad. “Stay strong, stay true to yourself, and build meaningful relationships,” she said. “Manage your finances wisely, invest in your growth, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.”
After 13 years overseas, Keren has learned that success isn’t always about grand plans or dramatic moves. Sometimes, it’s about showing up daily, staying open to learning, and trusting that steady work—done with integrity—will eventually shape a life that feels right.
