About

Here’s a refined and more polished version with better flow, clarity, and emotional impact—while keeping your original message intact:

Change is the only constant in our lives—whether it’s a shift in perspective, aspirations, or plans. It can be something we deeply need or something we fear. Either way, whether we embrace it or resist it, change will always find its place in our journey.

This rings true for Rhona Doria, a former retail operations executive from the Philippines, who chose to embrace change when she moved to Canada with her family in 2016. Starting over in a new country meant navigating unfamiliar territory—unlearning, relearning, and rebuilding. Yet through it all, she found the courage to create something meaningful: Hablon Styles & Hues, a retail startup showcasing handwoven products from Iloilo, Philippines.

The Philippines has always been home, and moving across the Pacific meant leaving many things behind—but not her knowledge, experience, and passion. With over 20 years in retail operations at International Toyworld Inc., where she managed Toy Kingdom, one of the country’s largest toy store chains, Rhona built an impressive career. She began as a store manager and eventually rose to Vice President for Operations before making the life-changing move abroad.

Today, she works as an Events and Sponsorship Coordinator for the Surrey Board of Trade. Surrounded by business professionals and a thriving entrepreneurial environment, her passion for building something of her own continued to grow. Five years after migrating, she officially launched Hablon Styles & Hues (HS&H), a Surrey-based distribution company bringing handwoven home and fashion pieces from Iloilo to Canada through its mother company, Hablon de Iloilo.

Although the dream began in 2016, it wasn’t until October 2020 that it truly took shape. A call from her university friends and former roommates sparked the opportunity to collaborate. Despite the distance—her partners based in the Philippines—Rhona took the leap. With shared vision, deep-rooted friendship, and perseverance, they turned a long-standing dream into reality.

For Rhona, this business is more than just a venture—it’s a bridge. A way for Filipinos in Canada, whether immigrants or Canadian-born, to stay connected to their roots. At the same time, it uplifts weaving communities in Iloilo by creating opportunities, especially during the challenges brought by the global pandemic. As Rhona puts it, “It was high time for us to help people and the community. That’s how it all started.”

Her passion and purpose shine through in everything she does. By sharing a piece of her hometown, she continues to serve communities both in the Philippines and Canada. Her story is a testament to the power of embracing change, staying determined, and leading with heart.

And this is only the beginning.

If you want, I can also make a shorter version for social media or break this into carousel slides 👀