Michael
Pantoja
vice-Chairman of the board
I’m former military under the Special Action Force. I started my journey in Calgary, Canada in November 2014 and got a job as security personnel - I was soon promoted as supervisor. To challenge myself further, I completed a program in Security Management at the University of Calgary. I graduated and received my certificate in the year 2018.
Our business all started when my wife and I both got laid-off from work. During the height of pandemic, like a typical business wannabe, I accepted orders only through social media (i.e., online marketplace). Now, most Filipino convenience stores in Calgary and nearby cities have my very own, signature blend of kakanin. Proudly representing our cultural heritage in displaying my products at Seafood City Calgary bearing a “sari-sari delights” sticker. I am grateful for my Sales experience back home that I utilize in my day-to-day business. In Last spring’s issue of “Savour Calgary Magazine,” Marcus Special Kakanin was given a chance to be in a cover photo and feature on page 12. Early this year, we ventured out and started our cleaning and janitorial business - some of our clients are industrial offices, small offices, require move out cleaning and/or window cleaning. I am fully confident that soon my cleaning and janitorial services will grow to new heights. I have taken inspiration from my co-board director in this sector. As of now, I am eager to overcome the challenge and obstacles ahead. I must know my strength and advantages to gain more clients. In addition, I’m also a licensed massage therapist and have plans to establish a massage clinic in the future.
As a UFEA Vice-chairman my rules of life are simply to let it go, never ruin a good day by thinking about a bad yesterday. Ignore them, don’t listen to other people. You must live a life that’s empowering to you. Give it time- for the time heals everything. Don’t compare yourself to others because for me, the only person to beat is the person you were yesterday. It’s okay not to have everything figured out. Know that in time, you will get there - in short, be patient and calm. Happiness is priceless, so it’s only you who can oversee your own happiness.