Former journalist Thelma Gecolea has transitioned from a successful media career and diplomatic relations to becoming a co-owner of Starkaffea Corp.
Gecolea’s educational journey, which includes a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) and a Master’s in Journalism from the University of Technology Sydney as an AusAid scholar, has provided her with a rich foundation for her personal and professional pursuits.
“Having worked in three diplomatic missions – the Australian Embassy, the United Nation Development Programme and the EU Delegation taught me to become more well-rounded and to become more tolerant of cultures,” she recalled.
Devoted to her family, she remains unmarried and without children, dedicating herself to the care of her elderly parents. Atty. Filemon and Teresita Gecolea are in their 90s and facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s. She and her two siblings strive to uphold the values of perseverance and hard work instilled by their parents.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have been raised by loving and responsible parents, who are my greatest blessings. I am deeply grateful for their sacrifices. I strive every day to honor them by giving back and embodying the principles they taught me,” she said.
Milestones, regrets
Despite her many achievements, Gecolea carries a deep regret of not becoming a mother, but her parent’s enduring love continues to inspire her.
“While I may not have my own children, I pour my heart into being a loving daughter and sister,” she said, exerting extra effort to be as selfless as she can for her family.
As work provides opportunity for foreign travel, her journey to 36 countries have instilled in Gecolea a deep respect for diverse cultures, reinforcing her entrepreneurial aspirations. She still works as a communications expert at the EU Delegation.
“To explore the world, both literally and figuratively, is to grow in ways I never imagined. Each journey taught me something new,” she said.
Brand with a heart
Her initiation into entrepreneurship began during the pandemic when Gecolea joined Starkaffea. Alongside her business partner, Cheng Pabilonia—who was once her student—Gecolea has cultivated a brand that emphasizes both quality and social responsibility.
“It is nice to be ‘learning’ the rudiments of business from my former student. We reconnected decades after she graduated. We have gone a long way from mentorship to business partnership to having a great friendship at the same time,” she said.
The company offers a delightful line of beverages – Kaffea, an instant coffee naturally sweetened with coconut sugar and Chocolea, a unique chocolate drink that is similarly laced with coconut sugar. Chocolea is a brainchild of Gecolea, from which the product derived its name.
StarKaffea have successfully brought Kaffea and Chocolea to markets in the US and Dubai, with hopes of further expanding its business footprint. The milestone of opening a kiosk at Duty Free Philippines was a significant achievement for Gecolea and her team.
Their commitment to supporting local coconut farmers is foundational to their business ethics, creating a mutually beneficial relationship built on trust and respect.
“A business without a heart is destined to fail. We thrive when we uplift those around us, especially those who help us succeed,” Gecolea said.
Advocacy
For Gecolea, success is measured not by financial gain but by the impact of the business on the community, believing that “happiness is all about sharing; we can’t be truly happy without sharing our success.”
Her journalism background has been an invaluable asset to her entrepreneurial journey, enhancing her communication, research and networking skills. She believes that good research is the foundation of both journalism and business.
“There’s no age limit to pursuing your dreams. With determination, every day offers a new opportunity,” she said, urging aspiring entrepreneurs to stay steadfast in their goals.
As she pursues her dreams, her mission is clear: to create a thriving business that uplifts others.
“My success is not mine alone, it belongs to everyone who has supported me. We rise by lifting others,” she said.
Driven by her vision of opening a dedicated coffee shop, Gecolea pours her heart into her current work, ensuring every cup of coffee and chocolate drink reflects her commitment to her business partners and the farmers, as partners for growth.
