Filipina and Thai entrepreneurs
with similar journeys join forces in business
A special kind of magic sparks when women join forces. There is a synergy that goes beyond individual ambition and creates something “beautiful.” This power is seen in the story of two self-made female entrepreneurs, Linda “Lyn” Macanas from the Philippines and Kwan Wannathong from Thailand.
The two have jumped into a joint venture to launch LM Makeup and Skincare. The partnership, sealed on March 8, International Women’s Day, is both a major business deal and a celebration of two power women’s resilience, shared values, and strength in business.
Both Lyn and Kwan’s journeys are proofs of the power of perseverance. Lyn, now a major player in the construction industry, hails from humble beginnings in Samar, Philippines.
During the interview, she recalled her early struggles, saying she used to walk nine kilometers to school, worked on a farm, tended to animals, and did everything she could to survive. She shared that she did not have a mother and her father was unable to fully support the family. Despite these challenges, Lyn financed her education through plain grit and determination, eventually building a successful construction firm. Her venture into the beauty industry was inspired by her daughters, leading her to think, “Why not create my own?”
Kwan’s story shares a similar rise from modest circumstances. Before becoming the CEO of Vega Natural Cosmetics in Thailand, she was a street vendor selling fish balls in Bangkok. She described her initial aspirations with simple conviction – that she lived on a dream and took action to make it come true. She built her business in manufacturing cosmetics and partnered with clients along the way.
This shared experience of once simple girls with big dreams from the Philippines and Thailand became the foundation for an immediate connection when the two women met over a business dinner in Thailand.
When hearts and minds met
The bond between Lyn and Kwan goes beyond mere business transactions. Kwan spoke warmly of their initial encounter.
“When we talked, I felt how strong her energy was. It touched my heart to see how she cared for the people around her, just as we do in Thailand. I knew we could succeed together,” she said.
Their decision to sign the official agreement on International Women’s Day was also a deliberate act, a symbolic gesture acknowledging the power of female forces in the business world. The signing ceremony, held in Parañaque City, was witnessed by Kwan’s family members who traveled all the way from Thailand.
Modern beauty crafted with care
LM Makeup and Skincare, Lyn and Kwan’s joint project, is set to introduce a range of premium yet accessible beauty products to the Southeast Asian market in 2025. The brand’s philosophy centers on high quality, utilizing skincare innovations from France and Spain.
A key focus is ensuring the products are well-suited for the climate and complexions most common in the Philippines and the wider region. The initial product line will include essentials such as soaps, creams, lotions, and serums.
Beyond catering to the Philippine market, LM Makeup and Skincare has ambitious plans for regional expansion across Southeast Asia. This move signifies a significant step for both businesswomen and their commitment to bringing quality beauty products to a broader audience.
Inspiring other women
Lyn and Kwan see their collaboration as an opportunity to inspire other women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Lyn offered a piece of straightforward advice in the vernacular, “Everything can be done. Everything is possible. You have to focus. First, pray. Ask the Lord. Make the Lord the center of your life. When you do that, everything will follow without you realizing it.”
Kwan echoed the words of wisdom, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and perseverance. “This opportunity came at the right time. We will bring the best products here and beyond. We will succeed together,” she confidently stated.
The launch of LM Makeup and Skincare in 2025 offers more than just a new beauty brand entering the market. It gives us the spirit of women empowerment, the strength in unity, and the possibilities that can be realized when women support and uplift each other. Undoubtedly, there is beauty in kindness and shared dreams.
