Arts and Culture: Joanna Duarte
A Young Entrepreneur Who Found Her Brush Later in Life
In the vibrant world of entrepreneurship, few stories are as inspiring as that of Joanna Ongpin Duarte. Joanna carved a remarkable path as a successful entrepreneur, early on, creating a suite of beloved homegrown clothing brands, namely Big & Small Co, Spin, Orange Juice and Havin’ A Baby. Joanna started Big & Small Co. at 19, as a college experiment. She wanted to start a business and provide jobs, and thought kids’ clothes were much cuter and more doable than getting into ladies’ fashion.
Her innovative spirit and dedication to quality have set her apart in the competitive fashion industry, making her a true pioneer.
Joanna’s journey began with a vision to provide stylish, high-quality clothing that resonates with Filipinos. She recognized the need for brands that reflect both local culture and contemporary trends, and she embraced the challenge with creativity and passion. Each of her brands has its own unique identity, catering to various markets that spanned the range of pregnant women to pre-teen fashion for boys and girls, while emphasizing comfort and style. Joanna’s entrepreneurial success is a testament to her ability to understand customer needs and her commitment to uplifting local craftsmanship.
Following her achievements in the fashion industry, Joanna took her talents to the prestigious Balesin Island Club, where she further honed her skills in business management and customer engagement. Her experience there solidified her reputation as a leader who combines a keen business acumen with a deep understanding of her clientele.
Currently, Joanna is Senior Director of Community Development at Ayala Foundation. She continues to advocate for meaningful initiatives that contribute to the community and promote sustainable development. Her role at the foundation allows her to merge her entrepreneurial expertise with her passion for social responsibility, creating a positive impact in the lives of many.
What truly sets Joanna apart is her artistic journey, which began as a hobbyist painter on Sundays. She calls herself the Sunday Painter. This newfound passion has allowed her to express herself creatively, exploring the world of art alongside her entrepreneurial endeavors. Her artwork not only serves as a personal outlet but also inspires others to embrace their creative sides, proving that it is never too late to pursue one’s passions.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Joanna is a loving wife to Ramon and a devoted mother to her two children, Jaime and Rocio. Balancing her career and family life, she exemplifies the values of dedication and love that are central to the Assumption community. Her commitment to nurturing her family while pursuing her dreams reflects the spirit of resilience that we all aspire to embody.
As we celebrate Joanna Ongpin Duarte in this edition of our Assumption magazine, we honor her as a trailblazer in both entrepreneurship and the arts. Her journey is a source of inspiration for all of us, reminding us that with passion, creativity, and hard work, we can achieve our dreams while making a meaningful impact on the world around us.
Thank you, Joanna, for being a shining example of excellence and for inspiring us to embrace our own journeys with courage and creativity. Your work and passion will continue to inspire future generations of Assumption graduates.