Hazel Mae Madjos – Creative Director

My Journey From Teacher to Creative Leader and Beyond

I am Hazel Mae Madjos Margatinez, a proud mother of five. It might sound a bit overwhelming, but my children have been my greatest teachers, helping me discover my true passions and purpose in life. Through them, I’ve learned resilience, self-discovery, and the power of dreaming boldly.

Back in 2013, after graduating college, I pursued a teaching career at DepEd. To meet the special skill requirements, I began learning photography and videography. To my surprise, my panel was impressed with my creative work, and I realized I enjoyed it deeply. When I joined DepEd, I invested in equipment and started a photo and video business as a side hustle. I loved every part of it—it was my creative escape and my happy place.

Fast forward to 2020, financial challenges led me to sell my equipment, leaving me in debt and facing one of the darkest moments of my life. However, this difficult period turned out to be a gateway. It taught me valuable lessons about investment and resilience and pushed me toward a new venture: the online world.

The universe works in incredible ways. With just one application on Upwork, I landed a job as a video editor for a transformational supplement company. From there, my journey unfolded. The company soon recognized my skills in graphic design, and I felt proud knowing my creative work contributed to boosting their sales.

Over time, I was promoted to Creative Director, a role where I discovered my passion for leadership. I found immense joy in helping my team grow—not just in their skills but also in their mindset and personal development. Watching the creative department evolve was a highlight of my career.

During this time, another opportunity came my way through a recommendation. I started as a video editor at another company and was later promoted to Head of Media. Balancing two roles was fulfilling, but after giving birth to my fourth child, I had to make the difficult decision to choose one company.

In April 2024, the company I stayed with declared bankruptcy. While it was a sudden change, I embraced it with acceptance, trusting that everything happens for a reason. By June 2024, I gave birth to my fifth child, and with the unwavering support of my husband, I allowed myself to rest and recharge—a priceless gift during that season of my life.

Now, I’m ready for new adventures. I’m excited to explore opportunities that align with my skills, passions, and purpose. My journey has taught me to trust the process, embrace growth, and remain open to the endless possibilities ahead.

For a copy of Hazel’s resume, please click here.