In Photo: Maria Teresa Layron, an entrepreneur and proud CARD client from Malolos, Bulacan proved that no matter how hard life’s challenges may be, success is attainable through dedication and optimism.
Maria Teresa Layron of Malolos, Bulacan, has built a successful beauty salon from the ground up, embodying the power of hardwork, resilience, and a positive mindset. Her journey inspires aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone chasing their dreams, no matter the obstacles life throws their way.
A Humble Start
Driven by passion, Maria’s business journey began in her home in Cofradia, Malolos, Bulacan, where she initially ran a simple parlor and often offered home beauty services.
Determined to hone her skills, Maria enrolled in a TESDA-accredited beauty cosmetology course, allowing her to expand her services by adding manicure and pedicure services.
In 2006, Maria became one of the pioneering clients of CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO) where she started with small loans ranging from PHP 1,500 to PHP 4,000. As Maria’s financial needs grew, she was transferred to CARD MRI Rizal Bank, Inc., a microfinance-oriented rural bank, where her loans gradually reached up to PHP 200,000. Her loans played a crucial role in helping her meet family needs, grow her business, and improve her home.
“As a client, I make sure my loans are used efficiently, especially in running my business,” Maria says.
Overcoming Challenges
Running a business is never without its challenges. Maria acknowledges the common struggles that business owners face, like the so-called “ghost month,” when sales and customers tend to dip. Despite these struggles, she has always maintained a positive outlook.
The stability of her family life and the success of her business eventually allowed Maria to focus on her salon full-time. “Despite life’s challenges, I stood tall and remained strong, making sure to provide for my family,” she reflects.
Her resilience and determination in the face of adversity have allowed her to navigate tough times, always finding new ways to keep her business growing.
“Resilience and dedication are important, but it is just as essential to understand the business you are into. This helps you manage effectively, even if your staff isn’t around,” Maria shares.
A Partnership with CARD
Maria’s partnership with CARD MRI Rizal Bank has been about much more than just financial assistance—it has been a steady source of support throughout her journey.
“With CARD RBI, my journey is more than just financial help—it’s the source of inspiration and motivation to keep going, to continue dreaming of a better life, and to successfully manage my business,” she says.
The bank has provided her with essential financial tools and guidance, empowering her to manage and grow her business. But perhaps most importantly, it has been a source of unwavering support, helping her stay focused on her long-term goals.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Maria’s journey is a powerful reminder that starting a business requires more than capital—it takes dedication, resilience, and a strong will to succeed.
“Business isn’t always about profit. There will be ups and downs, but a positive mindset and determination can lead you to success,” she said.
Through her salon business, Mystica Beauty Studio and Barbershop, Maria created a livelihood and built a stable foundation for her family. The salon now caters to both men and women, offering a wide range of services, including haircuts, coloring, manicures, pedicures, hair treatments, and more.
Maria’s story is one of persistence and unwavering belief that anything is possible, no matter the obstacles. Her journey proves that with dedication, resilience, and a positive mindset, success is always within reach. (Edrian Banania, Junior Writer/CARDMRI)
