BUSINESS MENTOR: From Humble Beginnings to Global Ambitions

By Armando “BUTZ” Bartolome

In a world where success stories often seem reserved for the privileged few, the tale of Jonas and his brand, Unisol, stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration. What began as a modest venture in Cebu has blossomed into a thriving uniform company with aspirations that reach far beyond the shores of the Philippines. Jonas’s journey is not just a story of business success; it is a testament to resilience, vision, and the power of Filipino ingenuity.

The Birth of Unisol: A Dream Rooted in Humility

Jonas’s entrepreneurial journey began over two decades ago when he started selling T-shirts to schools. Back then, he was just a young man with a dream, navigating the uncertain waters of business with little more than determination and a willingness to learn. “I started selling T-shirts to schools 20 years back,” Jonas recalls. “It was a humble beginning, but it taught me the value of hard work and perseverance.”

In 2014, Jonas took a bold step forward by founding Unisol, a uniform company that would eventually become a game-changer in the industry. Unisol positioned itself as a tech-driven apparel company, leveraging innovation to disrupt the traditional uniform market. But the road to success was far from smooth. “We started with around 10 people and a few machines,” Jonas shares. “We had to learn everything from scratch. I knew nothing about manufacturing or uniforms. It was a big challenge.”

Overcoming Challenges: The Power of Vision and Resilience

One of the most striking aspects of Jonas’s story is his unwavering commitment to his vision, even in the face of adversity. When he first ventured into the uniform business, he was entering uncharted territory. The transition from selling T-shirts to producing high-quality uniforms required a steep learning curve. “I knew nothing about manufacturing,” Jonas admits. “But I was determined to figure it out.”

This determination paid off. Today, Unisol boasts a workforce of around 250 people and has become a recognized name in the uniform industry. But Jonas’s success is not just measured in numbers. It is reflected in the pride he takes in his work and the impact his brand has had on the community. “Our goal has always been to create a Filipino brand that we can be proud of,” Jonas says. “And now, we’re taking that brand global.”

The PTF Revolution: A Filipino Pride

One of the most exciting developments in Unisol’s journey is the creation of the Philippine Tropical Fiber (PTF), a groundbreaking material made from locally sourced fibers such as pineapple, bamboo, and abaca. This innovation is not just a testament to Jonas’s ingenuity; it is a source of national pride. “This is 100% Filipino,” Jonas proudly declares. “From the raw materials to the finished product, everything is sourced and produced locally.”

The PTF is more than just a material; it is a symbol of what can be achieved when passion meets innovation. “We’ve created something that is wrinkle-free, durable, and sustainable,” Jonas explains. “It’s a product that we can proudly showcase to the world.”

A Global Vision: Taking Unisol Beyond Borders

Jonas’s ambitions for Unisol extend far beyond the Philippines. His vision is to create a global brand that represents the best of Filipino craftsmanship and innovation. “Our goal is to bring Unisol to the global market,” Jonas says. “With the technology we have today, it’s now achievable.”

But Jonas is not in a hurry. He understands the importance of building a strong foundation before scaling up. “It took us 10 years to get to where we are today,” he reflects. “We had to learn, grow, and align our team with our vision. Now, we’re ready to take the next step.”

Words of Wisdom: Lessons from Jonas’s Journey

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Jonas’s story offers valuable lessons. When asked for advice, he emphasizes the importance of mindset, vision, and resilience. “First, you have to be ready to fail,” Jonas says. “When you start something new, you’re bound to make mistakes. But if you’re prepared for that, it won’t discourage you.”

Second, Jonas stresses the importance of having a clear vision. “You need to know where you’re going,” he explains. “Even if you fail, as long as you have that vision, you’ll find a way to get back on track.”

Finally, Jonas underscores the importance of perseverance. “Never give up,” he says. “No matter how many times you fail, you have to keep going. That’s the only way to achieve your dreams.”

A Legacy in the Making

As Jonas looks to the future, he is not just building a brand; he is creating a legacy. Unisol is more than just a uniform company; it is a symbol of Filipino pride, innovation, and resilience. “We want to leave a legacy,” Jonas says. “We want to show the world what Filipinos can achieve.”

Jonas’s journey is a reminder that success is not just about talent or resources; it is about vision, determination, and the willingness to keep going, even when the odds are stacked against you. His story is an inspiration to anyone who dares to dream big and work hard to make those dreams a reality.

Join the Journey

As we celebrate Jonas’s achievements, we invite you to follow the Business Mentor Column every Monday for more inspiring stories and valuable insights. Like The Philippine Business and News on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest trends and success stories in the world of business. Together, let’s celebrate the power of vision, resilience, and the indomitable Filipino spirit.

Jonas’s journey is far from over, and with Unisol poised to make waves on the global stage, the best is yet to come. So, let’s follow his lead, dream big, and never give up. After all, if Jonas can do it, why can’t we?