Pandemic survivor: Businesses can play a bigger role beyond profit

Filipina entrepreneur stresses need to give back to society

- BY TRICIA GAJITOS

Lourds Adalia-Evertse

As regional tensions continue to create uncertainty for businesses across the UAE, many companies have been forced to focus on rising costs, operational disruptions, and staff concerns.

But for Dubai-based Filipina entrepreneur Lourds Adalia-Evertse, the difficult period has become another reminder that businesses can play a bigger role beyond profit.

While navigating challenges of the current situation, Evertse organised free meals for frontline workers including delivery riders and security guards, arranged grocery support packages for employees, and introduced mental resilience sessions to help staff cope with stress and anxiety.

“Of course, business realities are important, but purpose matters too. We believe businesses should not only generate profit but also create a positive impact within the community,” Evertse told Gulf News.