Elizabelle Alimurung's Story

When I entered the workforce in 2009, I carried this mindset with me. The world of work was demanding, but I never felt unprepared. My mother’s lessons had armed me with the confidence to face challenges head-on, knowing that hard work and perseverance would always be my strongest assets.

Shifting Perspectives: The Bricklayers’ Parable

A defining moment in my career came when a mentor shared the parable of the three bricklayers during one of our meetings. In the story, a man asks three workers what they are doing. The first says he is laying bricks. The second replies that he is building a wall. But the third, with a sense of pride and vision, responds that he is building a cathedral.

This simple yet powerful story changed the way I viewed my work—and leadership itself. It made me realize that true empowerment comes from understanding the bigger picture. When we see the purpose behind what we do, even the smallest tasks take on a greater meaning. It also reinforced another crucial lesson: humility in leadership. No job is too small, and no effort is insignificant when working toward a shared goal.

Empowerment Through Impact

For me, empowerment has never been about titles, recognition, or popularity—it’s about impact. It’s about making decisions that not only benefit the organization but also positively affect the lives of the people we serve. Success isn’t measured by individual achievements, but by the lasting value we create for others.

This mindset has been my guiding principle throughout my career, especially during my time with Sodexo. In nearly two years, starting as Client Retention Manager and now as Head of the Performance Management Office, I have made it my mission to ensure that my team understands one fundamental truth: every task, no matter how small, contributes to a larger purpose. Empowerment is not just about personal success—it’s about lifting others, leading with purpose, and inspiring change.

Leading with "Malasakit"

At the heart of our work is malasakit—a deep sense of care, responsibility, and commitment. Passion, dedication, and purpose drive everything we do. I encourage my team to embrace these values, not just for professional growth but for the meaningful impact we create together.

When we look beyond the bricks and walls, we realize we’re not just building structures, we’re shaping lives, creating opportunities, and making a difference that extends far beyond ourselves.

Let’s continue to build cathedrals.