Guts & Glory

What does it take for a creative to thrive abroad? These US-based Filipino designers talk about how they secured their spots in the global market and why they were ready to risk it all

- MARIAN SAN PEDRO

Rafe Totengco

Rafe Totengco started his design business in Manila back in the late 1980s. Then came one of the best decisions he made in his life: moving to New York.

"Design comes from a place of love, and I always want to enhance a moment," says Totengco. "I have a multicultural and eclectic aesthetic. It's not about jumping on a trend, but evoking an emotional response through design."

As Totengco sees it, the biggest risk for anybody in business is the day they decide they want to give it a go. The cost to establish one's self abroad is tremendous: deep pockets and an incredible support system have to be in place already. Plus, the fashion business is a business.

"My being a Filipino designer was in no way an obstacle," Totengco shares. "As a matter of fact, I think it gave me an edge because I had different cultural references, so I approached ideas from a new perspective."

Pia Gladys Perey

At 26, Pia Gladys Perey flew to Sydney with only $400 in her pocket. She stayed at her friends’ extra rooms and couches, offering to make wedding gowns at discounted prices in return.