I spent years climbing the wrong ladders.

For a long time, I operated on a simple, unspoken rule: be less of myself.

I learned to soften my edges, to be more cautious about what I said, to think about how others would react before I acted. When I came back to Canada after living in the Philippines, I literally changed the way I spoke to fit in. Later, as a manager in a big corporation, I learned to take fewer risks and just put my head down to do the work.

With every adjustment, I was losing a little more of myself.

What I eventually learned is that people are going to judge you no matter what—whether you're playing small or thinking big. The only choice you have is to be yourself.

My journey was a masterclass in checking the right boxes. I pursued a degree in nursing because it was the stable, sensible thing to do. I passed the board exam and got my license, achieving the goal I was "supposed to." But when I got there, I had the undeniable feeling: this just isn't me.

So I pivoted. I dove into the corporate world, starting at the bottom and quickly working my way up into management at a national company. The higher-ups saw potential in me, and I chased the dream of becoming a top leader, a director. But the higher I climbed, the more I saw that the corporate world, with all its politics, wasn't for me either.

On paper, I was successful. But I had spent years climbing ladders that led to someone else's rooftop.

But looking back, through all those different chapters, there was one common thread. One part of every job that always felt true, that always lit me up.

Whether I was leading an award-winning team in the corporate world, running my own businesses, or even during my time in nursing, the moments where I felt most alive were always the same: I loved helping people grow.

I loved seeing potential in my team members and helping them get to the next level. I loved being a true partner to my clients. I discovered that my energy was boundless when I was working with someone who was as committed to their own growth as I was. The more they put in, the more support I was thrilled to give.

And finally, I had a simple, powerful realization:

What if I stopped climbing ladders altogether and dedicated myself entirely to helping other people find and build their own?

That’s when Hiraya Coaching was born.

So what makes my journey unique enough to help you with yours?

Honestly, nothing. I believe there are thousands of talented, ambitious people out there who feel just like I did—like they're playing a role that doesn't quite fit. I've come to call this person the 'Humble High-Achiever,' and my entire coaching practice is dedicated to helping them find their voice and build a life that is authentically their own.

The only difference is that one day, I decided to stop waiting for permission. I chose to break loyalty with my past limitations and become the architect of my own future.

That is what I want to help you do. My mission is to be your Trusted Guide. My role is not to give you a map, but to be the mirror and compass as you find your own way forward. If you're ready to start that journey, I invite you to start the conversation.

When I'm not coaching...

• My first love was volleyball. I played varsity throughout high school and college, and even had a role as a player-coach. I guess helping people see and reach their potential has always been in my DNA.

• You'll usually find me with a matcha latte in hand. I'm a tea person, through and through.

• I'm a perpetual student of growth and business, always learning from modern thinkers and creators like Ali Abdaal and Steven Bartlett, the host of Diary of a CEO.

A few kind words...

"No BS, no cheesy pep talks, just real talk mixed with serious skills... he’s got this chill vibe that makes you feel like you’re working with a friend who’s also low-key a genius at this stuff."

- Jonathan U., Customer Service Manager