Atty. Regina Jacinto Barrientos has led an interesting—and inspiring—career so far. Aside from being the CEO of PJS Law, she now leads the regtech firm UNAWA, which aims to equip businesses with the solutions they need to close transactions digitally and seamlessly.
We sit down with her as she shares invaluable lessons she has learned along her journey.
Q: Women take on many roles throughout their lives; juggling these roles is a constant struggle. What are your thoughts on this?
RPJ: Women have a greater challenge because we want to succeed in all aspects of our lives. We want to be the best mom, wife, daughter, friend, and colleague we can ever be. We tend to be our own harshest critic and to strive to be the best in all these fields is just impossible. Know that asking help and relying on others is not a sign of weakness. It can be a great strength so use it and know that you are also helping others, as asking for help empowers.
Q: How did you break the glass ceiling in your chosen profession?
RPJ: I was only able to break the proverbial glass ceiling when I acknowledged its presence and accepted the reality that I had to work harder. Working harder than the men in my field was the only way to prove to the industry that I am just as capable as any of them. This meant no shortcuts, working longer hours, and having the gravitas to quiet the inner voice of fear and doubt.
Q: How can women thrive in a male-dominated industry?
RPJ: Never be intimidated when you’re in a room filled with men. You have a voice that must be heard. Learn to use different methods of making that room hear your voice. Know that you do not need to have a loud voice, just a wise voice. And however you express your message, always be true to yourself.
Q: How do you bounce back from a failure?
RPJ: I have made many mistakes and so has everyone else. It is the courage to pick up yourself and try again that allows you to continuously grow. When a mistake happens, pause and understand why the mistake happened and come up with a plan to avoid making the same mistake again.
Life is a marathon. Be kind to yourself because this allows you to run the distance and win the race.
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Pioneering regulatory tech ("regtech") startup UNAWA offers the simplest and most convenient way to digitize key transactions through UNAWA Express. Through its suite of comprehensive solutions, organizations have what it needs to transact digitally and seamlessly so you can close deals and realize revenue, faster. Learn more at www.unawa.asia.
