Josefina Payad's Story

Today, as a Learning and Development leader at Sodexo, Pinky brings not only her global expertise but also a deep passion for nurturing talent and creating meaningful impact. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, belonging, and the courage to come home and start anew.

When I left the Philippines to work overseas in the UAE, it wasn’t just about career growth—it was about making a sacrifice to secure a better life for my family. Though I was far from them, every step I took was with their well-being in mind.

I spent about 13 years working abroad, missing important moments and milestones in my children’s lives while watching them grow from a distance. I carry the emotional weight of being away, hearing my 4-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son say, "I missed you, Mama... it's been a long time since you put us to bed." These solemn yet crushing words resonate with me each time we talk on the phone. We had a pact: whenever they felt sad at night, I wanted them to look out the window and gaze at the stars... and transform their sadness into joy, because we are all gazing at the same stars. These stars in the night became my heart and soul's shelter at times of uncertainty... reminding me every day of my life's purpose. 

Despite all the personal challenges, my years in the UAE shaped me into the Learning and Development leader I am today. I worked in diverse industries, met people from various cultures, and built expertise in talent development, leadership training, and HR strategy. As time passed, though, I felt a strong desire to come home—not just to reunite with my family but also to bring everything I had learned back to my country.

Coming Home: A New Beginning with Sodexo 

Returning to the Philippines after more than a decade was not as simple as booking a flight back home. I had apprehensions about my age, reintegration into the workforce, and potential biases after being away for so long. Would I still fit into the local corporate landscape? Would my experience abroad be valued? Or did my clock already stop ticking?

 Then, I found Sodexo. When I applied, I felt welcomed, valued, and supported. I was given an incredible opportunity at Sodexo Strategic Account—one that allowed me to work in a highly diverse, inclusive, and innovative environment. It felt like the perfect blend of my global experience and my passion for learning and development. 

Thriving in Diversity & Inclusion 

At Sodexo, no two days are ever the same. I engage with brilliant minds from different backgrounds, and together, we foster a culture of growth, inclusivity, and excellence. The Sodexo team has been a pillar of support, allowing me to introduce innovative training solutions, develop leaders, and create meaningful learning experiences. One of the highlights of my journey has been the chance to mentor others, just as I was guided by incredible leaders throughout my career. I see myself in the employees I train—the same eagerness to grow and the same hunger to make a difference. 

Looking Back, Moving Forward 

Reflecting on my decision to leave, grow, and ultimately return home, I realize that every step—every challenge and every sacrifice—has led me to where I am today. The years spent away were never wasted; they were an investment in my future and my family’s future. Sodexo is my second home in the Philippines—where I felt valued and fueled my passion by effectively utilizing my skills and helping me to thrive in my ways. My fruitful journey has taught me that empowerment is not merely about career advancement; it’s about finding a place where you can make an impact while staying true to yourself and your values. To me, this embodies the essence of celebrating women and leadership—the ability to rise, return, redefine what success truly means, and keep going no matter what. 

Looking back, I see that every challenge, every tear, and every sacrifice has shaped the person I am today. The years I spent abroad were not lost time; they were steppingstones toward a future where I could give back—not just to my family but to my own country. 

Sodexo became my homecoming, a place where I was valued and empowered to use my experiences to create change. My journey has shown me that empowerment isn’t just about climbing the corporate ladder—it’s about finding a place where you can thrive while staying true to yourself. To me, this is what celebrating women and leadership is all about—the ability to rise, to return, to redefine success on our terms, and to keep moving forward, no matter where life takes us.