When you visit a mall to shop, eat, or watch a movie, it is easy to forget about the people who design those experiences. Behind the big plans and daily operations of SM Supermalls are real people with unique stories, favorite foods, and personal dreams. A recent look into the lives of two key leaders, Steven and Carinna, reveals what drives them when they are not running board meetings.
For Steven, working with SM is all about serving the community. One of his favorite work memories was the launch of the cinema at SM Aura Premier, which brought a fresh and modern look to movie theaters in the country.
When he visits a mall on his own time, his main goal is shopping, but he hopes to add more green open areas inside malls so visitors can relax. Outside of work, Steven loves listening to hit music from the 1980s.
He values the comfort of crispy fried chicken, loves spending time in Paris where he studied, and considers free time his biggest luxury. His ultimate day off is having zero meetings so he can spend quality time with his mother. Above all, he follows the famous advice of SM founder Henry Sy Sr., which is to always listen to your customers, and he wants to be remembered for helping the community.
Carinna has a deep personal connection to the mall giant. One of her fondest memories took place before SM Mall of Asia officially opened, when she celebrated her birthday on the property grounds.
She loves to eat out and explore new food spots when visiting malls, and she aims to bring even more local and international brands to shoppers. Many people are surprised to learn that Carinna used to study performing arts and once wanted a career in theater. She enjoys a good cup of coffee, warm waffles, and visiting Melbourne, where she lived during her school years.
Her ideal free day involves walking through different mall spaces to observe new trends without any work appointments. Guided by her father’s advice to stay focused, stay hungry and stay humble, Carinna hopes to build her own name and be recognized for her true self.
Through their shared commitment to listening to people and creating meaningful experiences, both Steven and Carinna show that the future of retail is built on heart and purpose. As SM Supermalls continues to evolve, these leaders remain grounded in the simple joys, personal values, and community connections that make their work truly impact everyday Filipino lives.
