The Role of Faith in My Journey
Faith has always been a central part of my life. Growing up in Guayanilla, Puerto Rico, my family instilled in me the values of integrity, humility, and service to others, many of which I found mirrored in the teachings of the Church. As I navigated my career in public service and eventually became the president of RWM Real Property Inc., those early lessons in faith guided my decisions and leadership style. The Church, through its messages and community-driven teachings, deeply influenced my ethical approach to leadership and business.
When I reflect on my work, whether it was as the Director of Finance for the Municipality of Guayanilla or now as a consultant and business owner, I realize that the values I gained from my faith are at the core of how I approach business. These values, rooted in the Church’s teachings, emphasize selflessness, honesty, and stewardship—principles that have helped me make decisions that are both morally sound and community-focused.
Ethical Leadership: A Reflection of Church Teachings
Throughout my career, I’ve learned that true leadership isn’t just about achieving financial success or building a strong business. It’s about how you lead people and make decisions that ultimately benefit the greater good. The Church teaches us to lead with compassion and responsibility, and that’s something I’ve tried to apply in all my roles.
When I began consulting municipalities in the early 2000s, I quickly realized how important ethical leadership was in the public sector. I believe the Church’s emphasis on servant leadership, where leaders focus on serving others rather than seeking personal gain, is something that should apply not only in faith communities but also in business. In my work helping municipalities balance budgets and manage finances, I’ve always placed the needs of the community first. Serving others—whether through public service or private business—is a reflection of my commitment to those values instilled in me by the Church.
I’ve never viewed my work as a mere transaction or a way to make money. Instead, I view it as an opportunity to improve the lives of the people I serve. The idea of being a “steward” of the resources I manage, whether that’s municipal funds or business assets, has always been central to how I approach business decisions. In the Church, we are called to care for what is entrusted to us with respect and diligence, and I’ve carried that principle into my professional life.
Serving the Community with Purpose
One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been the ability to help communities thrive. Serving in public office and as a municipal consultant has given me the privilege of directly impacting the lives of many people. I’ve always believed that business is not just about making profits—it’s about making a positive difference in the community. My faith has been a constant reminder of that.
When I was involved with the Municipality of Guayanilla, I understood that managing the town’s finances was not just about balancing a budget—it was about ensuring that the resources were used to improve the lives of the residents. Whether it was supporting local schools, investing in infrastructure, or ensuring that public services were available to all, I saw my role as a public servant not just as a job but as a calling. The teachings of the Church reinforced the importance of helping those in need and being mindful of the greater good. I took this to heart in my work and still do today as I manage RWM Real Property Inc.
In business, this idea of service is often lost in the pursuit of profit. However, I’ve always believed that true success in business comes when we focus on serving others. A company that is built on the principle of serving the community, rather than solely on profits, will not only be more ethical but also more sustainable in the long term. My business has always been driven by this mindset, which is rooted in my faith. It’s the understanding that we are all part of a larger community and that our actions have consequences that extend far beyond our immediate circle.
Integrity in Decision-Making
One of the most important lessons from the Church that I’ve applied to my work is the importance of integrity. In my career, I’ve had to make decisions that affect the lives of many people—decisions about budgets, taxes, and policies that have long-term impacts on communities. Through it all, I’ve relied on the guidance of my faith to ensure that my decisions were made with honesty and transparency.
In my work as a consultant, I’ve always emphasized the importance of clear communication and ethical decision-making. Integrity is about being true to one’s values and staying committed to doing what is right, even when it may not be the easiest path. The Church teaches that honesty is not just a moral value but a necessity for building trust within communities. Whether I’m advising a municipality on financial management or helping a business owner navigate a difficult situation, I make it a point to act with integrity and to encourage others to do the same.
Trust is fundamental to any business, especially in the public sector. Without trust, there can be no collaboration, no progress, and ultimately no success. Through my faith, I’ve learned that the foundation of trust is built on honesty and doing what’s right—even when it’s not the most convenient option. This commitment to integrity is something I’ve carried with me throughout my career, and it has helped me build strong, lasting relationships with the people and organizations I work with.
Leading by Example
In both my work and my personal life, I’ve always believed that leadership begins with setting a good example. The Church teaches that true leaders are those who lead through service, humility, and sacrifice. This teaching has shaped how I approach my role as a business owner and consultant.
As the president of RWM Real Property Inc., I know that the example I set is crucial in creating a culture of respect, accountability, and service. The people I work with look to me not just for guidance in financial matters but for guidance in how to lead with integrity and compassion. By embodying the values of faith—such as humility, kindness, and selflessness—I strive to inspire those around me to also lead with a sense of purpose.
Leadership is not about authority or power; it’s about influence. And the best leaders are those who lead by example, demonstrating the values they wish to see in others. Whether it’s showing respect for every team member, making ethical decisions, or working to improve the community, I strive to lead in a way that reflects the teachings of the Church. Through this, I hope to inspire others to follow in those same footsteps.
Conclusion: Faith-Driven Leadership
As I reflect on my career and the values that have shaped my approach to business and leadership, I’m reminded of the profound influence that faith and the teachings of the Church have had on me. My commitment to service, integrity, and ethical decision-making is a direct result of the lessons I’ve learned through my faith. These values have not only guided me in my professional life but have also enriched my understanding of what it means to be a true leader.
In the end, business is not just about transactions and profit—it’s about people. And it is through faith-driven leadership, grounded in service to others, that we can build stronger, more ethical businesses and communities. It is my hope that by continuing to lead with the values I’ve learned from the Church, I can make a positive difference in the lives of those I work with and in the communities I serve.