Mary Joyce Parco's Story

I’m Mary Joyce D. Parco, a member of the Procure to Pay (P2P) team under the Finance Department at Sodexo Philippines. As part of a company that values people, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of not just working hard but also creating a space where everyone feels supported and included.

For me, empowering women isn’t just about giving them leadership roles—it’s about building a strong support system that allows them to thrive. It means fostering an environment where women feel confident, and where they know they can grow regardless of age or circumstances. Real empowerment is about resilience, self-improvement, and having the courage to pursue success.

The Power of Belonging

In my workplace, I do my best to create a sense of belonging by being approachable and making sure my colleagues feel heard and valued. I’ve learned that sometimes, the smallest gestures—listening, checking in, or simply acknowledging someone’s hard work—can make a big difference.

In our department, we make sure everyone is involved in our processes. From planning to document submissions, we ensure that every site representative has a role, making them feel engaged and included. This collaboration strengthens our team and makes our work more meaningful.

Overcoming Challenges: A Lesson in Strength

I used to believe that handling struggles alone was a sign of strength. I kept my worries to myself, always putting on a happy face, and convincing everyone that I was fine. But over time, that weight became too much to bear. I found myself stuck in a cycle of negativity, disengaged from everything and everyone around me.

I started doubting the sincerity of those who tried to help, assuming they were just being polite or taking sides. Until one day, a close friend noticed. She pulled me aside, away from the noise, and simply listened. No judgment, no unnecessary advice, just a quiet space where I could finally let it out. And when I was done, she reassured me, reminding me that I wasn’t alone.

That moment was a turning point. She made me realize that the people who truly care don’t just say it, they show it. It also reminded me of my purpose. I thought of my daughter and the future I wanted for her. If I gave up, what would happen to her? She still needs me. And for her, I had to keep going.

Since then, I’ve learned to open myself up again. More people reached out, offering support, and little by little, I regained my footing. It’s true—we all go through difficult times, but that doesn’t mean we won’t have better ones ahead.

The Women Who Inspire Me

One of the greatest sources of strength in my life has been the women I work with. Many of them have faced struggles similar to mine, yet they pushed through and achieved their goals. Their resilience is a constant reminder that perseverance leads to success.

Having mentors has also been invaluable. Learning from their experiences, seeking their guidance, and seeing firsthand how they navigate challenges has helped shape my own confidence and career path.

Finding Balance and Growing Every Day

Balancing work and personal growth isn’t always easy, but I’ve learned that small, consistent habits make a difference. I make time for myself—whether it’s walking to the train station for some exercise, taking vitamins, or reading about personal and professional development.

I also enjoy watching educational videos about leadership, computer skills, and history. It helps me see things from different perspectives, which in turn helps me grow in my career. I believe that what we learn outside of work can positively impact how we perform in it.

Advice to Young Women

To young women just starting their careers, my advice is simple: Surround yourself with people who uplift and challenge you to grow. Success isn’t instant—it takes effort, resilience, and a willingness to keep learning. You will face difficulties, but don’t let them discourage you. You are capable of more than you think.

Whatever happens, remember—you are not alone. Keep going, keep learning, and trust in your own strength. You’ve got this.