In the male-dominated logistics industry, two remarkable women leaders at the
Airspeed Group, a Filipino-owned end-to-end logistics company, have shattered
barriers and achieved success. As we celebrate Women’s Month, let us meet
Rosemarie Rafael, the Chairperson and President of Airspeed Group, and Mariz
Regis, Airspeed International’s President and CEO, who have not only
demonstrated their capabilities but have also inspired aspiring female leaders in
the industry for almost forty years.
Empowering Others to Achieve Success
Chairperson Rosemarie Rafael has showcased her exceptional skills and
unyielding determination. Her leadership steered her company towards
prosperity and motivated numerous women within the industry.
In her own words, “Some people say that the grass is greener on the other side,
but to me, the grass is greener where you water it, where you are planted, where
you can do, where you can go. If you are planted in a company and know this is
where you should be, you grow more,” shares Chairperson Rafael.
Apart from her leadership responsibilities, Rosemarie has been commended for
her role as a female leader and the active president of the Women’s Business
Council PH. She has been invited to speak at various events focused on women’s
empowerment, sharing her experiences and insights with aspiring entrepreneurs
and leaders.
Recently acknowledged as one of the 38 Women of Power by the Philippine Daily
Inquirer, this recognition celebrates her remarkable accomplishments and
steadfast dedication to positively impacting her local community and beyond.
Engaging in initiatives that promote business development, empowerment, and
community growth, RPR (as her colleagues call her) collaborates with like-
minded organizations and individuals to shape a brighter future for all.
Creating a culture of leadership
Airspeed International’s President, Mariz Regis, has been a remarkable leader who
has made an impact on the company. With her dedication, commitment, and
unwavering pursuit of the company’s growth and success, she has earned the
respect and admiration of her peers and colleagues. Starting as Branch Head of
Airspeed Cebu, she became the President and CEO of Airspeed International in
2022.
Her rise to the top position at Airspeed’s International business unit is a
testament to the capabilities and achievements that women can attain when
given equal opportunities to lead. Her strategic thinking and proactive approach
have been instrumental in driving the company’s growth and success. She also
used to have a leadership role at the Philippine Multimodal Transport and
Logistics Association, Inc. (PMTLAI), representing Airspeed.
“The most important is to teach and empower people, allow them to think, be
creative, and be innovative. I don’t want to stifle their creativity. For me, there is
no monopoly of bright ideas, and people on the ground have more insights into
what is happening,” says President Mariz.
As a leader, she understands the importance of empowering her team and
believes that bright ideas can come from anywhere within the organization. Her
commitment to collaboration and inclusivity ensures Airspeed International’s
success.
Celebrating Women’s Achievements
As we celebrate Women’s Month, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the
achievements of women like Rosemarie Rafael and Mariz Regis in their industry.
Their stories serve as a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and
leadership.
By breaking barriers and proving their worth in a male-dominated sector, these
women have paved the way for future generations of women to pursue careers in
any field. Their unwavering dedication to empowering others, both within their
organizations and through their involvement in women’s organizations, will
continue to inspire and influence the lives of many.
