Women entrepreneurs should adopt a mindset that, with the right attitude and support, anything is achievable. This approach nurtures resilience, confidence, and innovation, enabling them to overcome obstacles, challenge stereotypes, and tackle business challenges effectively. With determination and a supportive network, women can turn difficulties into opportunities, make significant changes, and attain impressive success, demonstrating that gender does not limit one’s potential to excel and lead. Diane Zoleta is a prime example of an entrepreneur who has flourished through this mindset.

Diane Zoleta is a trailblazer in the advertising and production industry, serving as Founder and President of Dayang Media Production with vision and resolve. From modest beginnings as a booking agent, Diane has risen to lead a successful production agency, showcasing resilience and innovation. Her journey defies traditional expectations, especially in a market often dominated by influential figures. Diane’s ascent is marked by her creativity, pursuit of excellence, and exceptional client connections across Southeast Asia, challenging norms in a predominantly patriarchal industry.

Below is an excerpt of Diane Zoleta’s exclusive interaction with Women Entrepreneur Review magazine.

Tell us about your professional journey in the media and entertainment industry.

My journey in the media and entertainment industry began at 16, working to support my studies in international fast-food chains and later in the office of SM, a leading shopping mall chain in the Philippines. After seven years, I transitioned into the film sector as a marketing manager, which paved the way for my entry into modeling as an agent. Within a year, I established my own modeling agency, representing primarily Brazilian models who needed local representation to enter the Philippines. This experience led me to manage talents who transitioned to showbiz, eventually expanding my portfolio to represent photographers, TV directors, and other industry professionals. My hands-on approach and focus on nurturing talent, regardless of their background, have allowed me to grow in the media landscape. Today, I’m proud to have built a network that bridges local and international talent, continually evolving and adapting to the industry's demands.

What have been some of the most crucial junctures throughout your journey?

One of the most crucial junctures in my journey was breaking into the advertising industry from a humble background. Unlike many agency founders from influential families, I had to fight hard to be taken seriously. I faced discrimination and struggled to gain clients, but my perseverance paid off. I diversified my business by representing not just models but also photographers, Hollywood directors, makeup artists, and other professionals in the Southeast Asia region. This pivot, along with representing international talent from Tokyo, Dubai, India, New York, and Italy, helped my business gain momentum and solidify my position in the market, allowing me to build a reputable name.

As President of Dayang Media Production, what key responsibilities do you hold, and what are your growth focus areas?

As President of Dayang Media Production, my key responsibilities revolve around business development, strategic pivots, and client satisfaction. I focus on securing new accounts and adapting our approach, especially in challenging times like the pandemic. I prioritize servicing international ad agencies, emphasizing the importance of each project’s success to my team. I believe in the principle that we are only as good as our last shoot, ensuring a hands-on approach for every campaign. Additionally, I am committed to boosting team morale and providing support, understanding that a motivated team is crucial for driving growth and maintaining our reputation.

Throw light on the most significant professional milestones you have achieved throughout your professional journey.

One of the most significant milestones in my professional journey has been expanding our reach beyond the Philippine market. Securing projects from Singapore, Dubai, India, Vietnam, New Zealand, Australia, and Europe, despite the region's dominance by markets like Thailand, Hong Kong, and India, has been a major achievement. Consistently working with the top corporations in the Philippines, delivering campaigns almost every month or quarter, is another significant milestone. Each project we undertake is unique, requiring a fresh approach every time, making every successful campaign a proud accomplishment. The ability to penetrate diverse markets and consistently deliver impactful campaigns reflects our growth and resilience as a media production company in a highly competitive industry.

How do you foresee women leaders’ representation evolving in the Philippines’ business landscape going forward?

The Philippines, while still rooted in a patriarchal society, is witnessing a positive shift in women's leadership. More women are supporting each other, embracing their strengths, and confidently claiming their space. They recognize that each journey is unique, fostering collaboration over competition. Empowered women are now breaking barriers, inspiring others, and creating a ripple effect of encouragement. This solidarity is evident, with nearly 65 percent of leaders in the top 500 corporations being women. I foresee this trend only growing stronger, as platforms like yours amplify these voices and inspire more women to realize their potential and contribute meaningfully to the business landscape.

Diane Zoleta, President, Dayang Media Production

Diane Zoleta is the President of Dayang Media Production, known for her transformative leadership and creative vision. From humble beginnings, she rose from a booking agent to an industry leader, reshaping media production in Southeast Asia with resilience and innovative strategies. Diane exemplifies excellence and a pioneering spirit in her field.