GREENSBORO, Ga. — Riezl Baker, co-founder and principal owner of Luxury Lake Oconee Real Estate Group, spoke at the 14^th National Empowerment Conference of the National Federation of Filipino American Association, the largest non-partisan, non-profit organization, and affiliation of Filipino American institutions, businesses and individuals. NaFFAA has thousands of members in thirteen regions that cover the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii, and the Pacific Islands. The conference theme was “Navigating the Present, Shaping the Future.”

Baker was invited to speak about successful entrepreneurship in America and making a difference as an immigrant. She shared positive turning point stories that led her to where she is today. One of those stories she named “11 at 11.”

“I was a night manager for a hotel company for two years working from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m. most days, making $11 an hour. I wouldn’t trade it for anything because it taught me the essential trait necessary to run a business and that is hard work,” said Baker.

She also joined a panel of distinguished business owners and executives for a general session on how to build a successful business and navigate through downturns and challenges.

“To be a successful entrepreneur, you must have the ability to adapt to change, and adjust to different conditions brought about by the economy or the market. You have to be agile,” said Baker, as she narrated launching  Luxury Lake Oconee Real Estate Group with her husband Ted during the pandemic in 2020. 

The company had record sales volume for the past three years and Baker was recognized as Top Luxury Real Estate Industry Leader in 2021 during an event in Atlanta. She and Ted were also recognized as Best Community Impact for all their contributions to the Lake Oconee community. They moved to the lake in 1997 and have a combined experience of over 40 years in real estate. They also have been involved in various organizations that have positively impacted the community. 

When asked about her role model, Baker spoke about her “Lolo” (grandfather), the late Ramon Bagatsing, who was the longest serving mayor of Manila, Philippines. A WWII veteran with the U.S. Armed Forces of the Far East and a survivor of Bataan Death March, he was awarded the American Defense Ribbon and was posthumously honored with the Congressional Gold Medal during a ceremony at the Capitol attended by Baker and her son.

 “Lolo lived his life serving others. He was an amputee and I would watch him swim with one leg while we talked about life lessons and how he overcame adversities. I learned about empathy and compassion at a very young age. My family always believed that you should share your talents to enrich the quality of lives of others wherever you live and work,” said Baker.

During her speech, Baker talked about the journey that many immigrants go through to get to this country which strengthens their resilience and patience that prepare them for the challenges of starting a business. 

“Entrepreneurship is one of America’s most celebrated emblems. I am proud of my Filipino heritage. I am also proud to be a citizen of this great country and call America my home where you have the opportunity to pursue your passions, start something out of nothing, and thrive in the midst of uncertainties,” added Bakler.