US-based Mariclem Shields came from a very influential family. Her mother was the first female general manager for Accor Hotels in Asia, and her aunt owns the entire naval port in the Philippines.
Mariclem, born in the Philippines and moved to the US when she was 3, is also making a name in the US as a non-profit leader and marketing guru.
Her passion for building relationships came at a very young age. Since most of her family members either own or run hotel and restaurant businesses back home, she was very immersed in the hospitality industry.
Because of her family’s business nature, Mariclem worked in all areas, from operations to sales and marketing in the US.
The highlight of her career was when she was named as the only person of color and a female within the organization who was in a leadership role at the age of 22.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, the situation paved the way for her to venture into the non-profit world.
“I wanted to do something that would be of service to others, however in a different angle,” she said.
Today, she handles the marketing and events for an organization supporting women who are victims of domestic violence.
“This is a cause that I deeply care about and want to add to my tenure in life,” she added.
Through her immersion in the non-profit organization, Mariclem gets to make a difference. She could have worked a different job with their wealth in the Philippines. She said she wanted to challenge herself, especially since it is essential to be progressive in this generation.
“I chose the non-profit world because I believe that every day is a new day to do something that can change other people’s lives and help those in need. I am passionate about it for personal reasons, so I know how much domestic violence can impact many women worldwide. The most satisfying moment is knowing I am contributing to society in my way,” she said.
Mariclem regularly gets invitations to visit the Philippines and be one of the panel of judges for various beauty contests to assess the candidates and determine how they can make a difference in the world through pageantry. Recently, she was invited to judge Mister International 2022.
The woman with a compassionate heart was also featured on a billboard in Los Angeles, California, showing Filipino women’s representation in the US.
She said she likes the idea of being around different types of people from various backgrounds.
When asked about her plans, the 30-year-old said she wants to launch multiple streams of businesses and move back home when retirement comes. She also wants to write a book and start her non-profit organization that would help more people, especially those who are victims of domestic abuse.
Her advice to her fellow Filipinos overseas is to always look at the bigger picture.
“We all have our gifts in life and to be our authentic selves. Do something that does not feel like work day in and day out,” she said.
During the holidays, Mariclem will relaunch his ‘Toy Drive’ advocacy to make more children smile this year by giving them toys to play with.
Mariclem, who is also a UNICEF member, is also an LGBTQ2+ community advocate.