Christine Espinosa-Erlanda | Breaking Stereotypes in Architecture | The Designer Recruiter | Ep.12
In this inspiring episode of The Designer Recruiter, host Esther Echeverria sits down with Christine Espinosa-Erlanda, Associate Director at Godwin Austen Johnson, to explore her 20-year journey from humble beginnings in the Philippines to becoming one of the UAE’s most respected architects.
Christine opens up about her rise through the ranks, entrepreneurial ventures, leadership lessons, and the biases she’s broken along the way — proving that grit, grace, and purpose can reshape any career.
You’ll hear:
How Christine went from Tondo to top-tier architecture in Dubai
The truth about stereotypes facing Filipinos in leadership
Lessons on balancing motherhood, creativity, and ambition
Insights into company culture, mentoring, and career longevity
Why financial literacy and self-belief are crucial for success
A must-watch for architects, creatives, and women redefining what leadership looks like in the design world.
👉 Watch now or listen on your favorite podcast platform.
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Follow Christine:
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-espinosa/
⏱ Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Christine Espino
01:10 Christine's Early Career in the Philippines
03:29 Transition to Dubai
07:52 Career Growth at Godwins St. Johnson
09:19 Balancing Family and Career
19:35 Entrepreneurial Ventures
24:07 Financial Literacy and Investments
24:42 The Green Sanctuary Resort
28:34 Creative Pursuits and Achievements
31:34 Managing Work-Life Balance
33:53 Balancing Family and Work Responsibilities
34:14 Office Life and Innovation Strategy
34:37 Leadership and Delegation
35:50 Breaking Stereotypes About Filipinos
37:53 Empowering Filipinos in the UAE
43:22 Facing Discrimination in the Workplace
48:40 Hiring the Right Candidates
53:34 Company Culture and Employee Retention
57:08 Personal Insights and Quickfire Questions
01:04:33 Final Thoughts and Advice