Grace David is the CEO of Edukasyon, an edtech platform in the Philippines that provides guidance from learners' education to their employment journey.

Launched in 2015, they claim to have more than a million registered users. They have won several impact awards in SEA. In 2021, they were lauded as the SME Champion in the Community Engagement and Partnerships from the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles Awards.

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👋🏼 How would you explain your job to someone outside tech?

I'm in charge of ensuring that Edukasyon runs like a well-oiled machine so that the team can stay focused on making [a] positive impact on the lives of our learners.

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🧐 What's something about you or your job that would surprise us?

Coffee is not my best morning start but yes it's essential. My best Edukasyon days started with proper unadulterated me time. But also has been the most difficult one when you see the temptation of a notification bar.

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🏆 What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

My evolution as a leader. I'm definitely more versed now in managing an entire business. But more than that, I'm a better version of myself as a people leader.

The easiest is to be an inspiring leader with directions to give. And now, I'm also comfortable having days being a leader who needs to make difficult and unpopular decisions and stay firm with them without apologies.

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🔍 What's a startup trend or space you're watching this year?‍

AI in edtech. Can it really be our best teachers in the future?

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💼 What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry? 

You don't have to do it solo. Build a team who can be your circle of trust. So that when you make mistakes, help is readily available. And when you successfully accomplish things, you have your team to celebrate with you.

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🗣 What's one thing you can keep talking about for hours? 

My nephews and nieces. They're my favorites and I'm their most favorite tita!

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🎥 What's your favorite movie/TV show? 

Suits.

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🍨 What's your go-to ice cream flavor?‍

Vanilla.

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FYI. We’ve edited this interview for clarity.