Name: Maria Carren S.
Position: Rooms Division Voyager (Management Trainee)
Hotel: The Westin Manila
Dream destination: Canada! Visiting this country opened my eyes to how cultural diversity shapes the way people express care, respect and hospitality.
Drink or treat of choice: Coffee.

Equal parts exciting and daunting. That’s how the Voyage program (Marriott’s leadership-track program) felt for Carren, a Rooms Division Voyager and Management Trainee at The Westin Manila, in the Philippines.   

Fresh out of university, she stepped into her first professional role, learning on the job, surrounded by colleagues who had been doing this for years. “I entered a professional space filled with people from different backgrounds and levels of experience, and I was learning the operations while also learning how to find my own voice,” says Carren. 

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Little by little, the trust her leaders placed in her, through both big and small decisions, began to change how she saw herself. 

But if she had to pick just one highlight, it would be the hands-on experience she gained across different departments. In her case, that included Rooms Operations, Sales, and Food and Beverage. “Each rotation helped me understand how the hotel comes together as one team,” Carren says. 

What began as a first job has grown into a journey of discovering who she is and the kind of leader she hopes to become. Keep reading to learn more about how Carren continues to grow through each challenge and milestone along the way.

What has been a decisive moment in your career? 

Joining the Marriott Voyage Leadership Program right after graduation. Stepping into a leadership‑track role as a young woman was exciting, but it was also overwhelming.

What gave you the confidence to keep going despite the initial fears? 

There were moments when I wondered if I truly belonged or if I was ready for that responsibility. But with every challenge I was trusted with, every briefing I led, and every small decision I was encouraged to make, something within me slowly shifted. I began to see that I was not just there to observe, but that I was there to contribute.

What is one leadership lesson you take from that experience? 

That realization helped me see myself not only as a learner, but as someone capable of growing into leadership. It taught me that growth does not wait for perfect confidence. Sometimes, it begins the moment you choose to step forward, even when you are unsure.

How have you learned to handle challenges along the way?

I’ve been supported by mentors, leaders, and colleagues who trusted me with real responsibilities even while I was still learning. Instead of shielding me from challenges, they encouraged me to lead briefings, contribute ideas, and take ownership of tasks across departments.

There were moments when I made mistakes or felt unsure, but they made it safe to learn rather than fear those experiences.

“Growth does not wait for perfect confidence. Sometimes it begins the moment you choose to step forward even when you are unsure.”

Carren S. – Rooms Division Voyager

How did it shape the way you lead today?

I remember what it felt like to be new and unsure. Now, I lead with empathy and humility. I try to create spaces where people feel safe to ask questions, make mistakes, and learn, just as I was allowed to do. This experience taught me the importance of being proactive, taking initiative, and contributing even when confidence is still developing. It showed me that leadership is not about knowing everything. It is about showing up with courage and being willing to grow alongside others.

Looking back, what is something that makes you proud?

I am most proud of becoming someone who embraces growth and responsibility with confidence. 

What advice would you give to women looking to accelerate in their careers?

Take up space and embrace opportunities even when you don’t feel completely ready. Seek mentors, build your support system, and trust your abilities. Leadership has no age, background, or timeline. Your voice and perspective will always matter.

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