For Eldee Africa-Villapando, becoming an HR professional was never part of the plan. But after pivoting from medical school and discovering a passion for people management, she found herself on a new path—one that led to a deeper purpose and bigger opportunities.
Still, there was something missing: the confidence to lead at a higher level. That changed when she earned her Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP) credential in the Philippines.
“The CHRP gave me the confidence to speak up,” Eldee shares, “and the strategic grounding to back it up.”
Her story is proof that the right certification isn’t just a résumé boost—it can be a turning point in your career.
From Execution to Strategy
Before earning her CHRP, Eldee had already built a solid foundation in HR. She had rotated through multiple functions—from employee relations and recruitment to compensation and organizational development—giving her a well-rounded view of the field.
But stepping into strategic conversations with senior leadership still felt daunting.
“I knew what I wanted to say, but I wasn’t always sure how to say it in a way that resonated with decision-makers,” she says.
That’s when she began searching for a credential that could enhance both her knowledge and her voice at the table. The CHRP program stood out not just for its local relevance, but for its global recognition and strategic framework.
Why CHRP Made the Difference
For Eldee, the impact of the certification went far beyond theory. “It validated what I already knew—but also challenged me to think more critically,” she says.
The program gave her tools to align HR practices with business objectives, apply labor law more confidently, and design people strategies with measurable results.
“It wasn’t just technical. It was transformative,” she adds. “Suddenly, I had frameworks I could use to present ideas to executives—and the courage to do it.”
Today, she’s involved in strategic planning, leadership development, and organizational change initiatives. And that growth, she says, began with CHRP.
Earning Respect, Opening Doors
In the workplace, credibility matters. For Eldee, the CHRP credential sent a strong signal—not just to others, but to herself.
“It showed my peers and leaders that I take this profession seriously,” she explains. “That I’ve invested in growing—and that I’m equipped to contribute at a higher level.”
She’s since found herself invited into more strategic discussions, trusted to handle more complex issues, and better positioned to advocate for both employees and company goals.
A Message to Aspiring HR Leaders
Would she recommend the CHRP certification? “Absolutely,” Eldee says. “It’s not just about earning a title. It’s about showing up differently—more confidently, more competently, and more strategically.”
Her advice to HR practitioners looking to level up? Don’t wait to feel ready.
“Sometimes what you need is the push—and the right program can give you that.”
