Any education is incomplete without a specific skill underlying it. Gimmarie Reyes’ decision to become a leader stemmed from a deep belief that education and skills training can transform lives. She saw a gap in accessible, high-quality professional development, especially for individuals seeking international opportunities. Founding GEMS Global Institute was her way of bridging that gap. Over time, she expanded into healthcare, homecare, events, and real estate—fields that not only create business growth but also generate meaningful social impact. “For me, leadership has always meant creating platforms where people can grow, thrive, and realize their potential,” she said when she spoke with Insights Success about the way they, at GEMS Global, are blending education with skills to prepare leaders of tomorrow. Ahead is that candid discussion.
Reyes, what are the biggest challenges your industry faces, and how have you worked to overcome them?
The education and training sector faces three main challenges: keeping programs relevant, building global linkages, and ensuring quality standards. Many institutions struggle to adapt to the fast-changing demands of healthcare, technology, and service industries. At GEMS, I address this by forging strong partnerships with hospitals, hotels, and international organizations—ensuring our students are not only trained but also connected to employment pathways. We also established clear policies on certification, compliance, and continuing professional development to maintain high standards. Overcoming these challenges required persistence, collaboration, and a forward-looking approach.
What keeps you motivated to come up with new ideas, even when times are difficult?
My motivation comes from the stories of my students and clients. Every time a graduate secures a job abroad, a caregiver uplifts a family, or a small business owner succeeds through our training, I am reminded why I do this work. Challenges are inevitable—economic shifts, regulatory changes, or even social perceptions—but impact stories fuel me to keep innovating. I also thrive on curiosity: I constantly ask, ‘What more can we do? How else can we make a difference?’
How do you approach taking risks when you’re trying something completely new or different?
For me, risk-taking is not reckless—it’s calculated courage. I assess three things: the need for the initiative, the resources available, and the long-term benefits. For example, when launching GEMS HomeCare Plus, we ventured into a competitive field. But by emphasizing compassion, comfort, and care as our pillars, we differentiated ourselves. I believe that if risks align with values and vision, they are worth taking. Even failures offer lessons that strengthen the next move.
What does “innovation” mean to you personally, beyond business success?
Innovation is human-centered progress. It is about solving problems in ways that make life better—not just for clients, but for society at large. Innovation means creating opportunities for underserved communities, raising professional standards, and bringing dignity to people’s work. It is not just about introducing something new; it’s about ensuring that new ideas resonate with purpose, compassion, and sustainability.
How have your life experiences shaped the way you lead your team and make decisions?
My journey has been shaped by resilience. As a journalist, educator, and entrepreneur, I learned to navigate different industries while staying true to my core values. Early in my career, I experienced both challenges and triumphs, which taught me that leadership requires humility, empathy, and adaptability. Today, I lead by empowering my team, giving them ownership, and making decisions that balance business growth with social good. My experiences have ingrained in me the belief that leadership is service first.
Can you share a specific moment when your work has made a positive impact on people, your industry, or society?
One defining moment was when our Nursing Assistant graduates were accepted for on-the-job training at leading hospitals in Bahrain. Many of them came from modest backgrounds, and seeing their pride in wearing a uniform and caring for patients with professionalism moved me deeply. This wasn’t just about training—it was about giving them dignity, confidence, and a pathway to a better future. For me, these moments reaffirm that our work is truly changing lives.
What personal habits or routines help you stay focused and creative as a leader?
I practice structured reflection and constant learning. I start my day with planning and end it by reviewing what worked and what can be improved. Writing—whether articles for Pinoy Aksyon News Bahrain or personal notes—helps me sharpen ideas. I also make time for community engagement and conversations with my students and staff. These interactions fuel my creativity because they reveal real needs and fresh perspectives. Discipline, prayer, and a sense of gratitude keep me grounded and focused.
How do you balance short-term challenges with your long-term vision for your industry?
Balancing short-term and long-term goals requires clarity of vision. In the short term, we ensure operational excellence—managing classes, certifications, and partnerships efficiently. But every short-term decision must align with our long-term mission: to be a trusted global hub for training and care excellence. I always remind my team that obstacles are temporary, but our vision is enduring. That mindset allows us to stay resilient while steadily moving toward our larger goals.
What advice would you give to young leaders who want to make a real difference in the world?
My advice is simple: lead with purpose and persistence. Don’t chase titles; chase impact. Be curious, stay humble, and don’t be afraid to fail forward. Surround yourself with mentors and partners who challenge and uplift you. Most importantly, remember that leadership is about service. When you focus on serving others—your team, your clients, your community—you will naturally create meaningful change and lasting influence.
