When Laurence Angelo Ungson launched his sneaker cleaning business SoleProtect, he wasn’t a shoe care expert. He didn’t come from a family of entrepreneurs. He didn’t even have formal training in the craft. But what he lacked in credentials, he made up for in something more powerful: curiosity, discipline, and drive.
“I’ve made my fair share of mistakes before learning the proper methods. I had no background—just curiosity and drive,” Ungson tells Financial Adviser PH.
What began as a pandemic side hustle became a masterclass in learning by doing—and eventually, a full-time business that’s earned the trust of sneaker lovers across La Union and beyond.
From DIY Kits to Pro-Level Service
Back in 2022, Ungson was working the night shift as a web designer when he noticed something missing in his hometown: no one was offering professional sneaker cleaning or restoration services.
Armed with a few DIY cleaning kits and a passion for sneakers, he started experimenting—on his own pairs first, then on those of family and friends.
“I learned a lot by trial and error. I ruined a few shoes along the way, but every mistake taught me what not to do next time,” he says.
Over time, he studied techniques online, tested various products, and began refining his process until what started as an experiment turned into professional-grade results.
Turning Feedback Into Fuel
Ungson didn’t hide behind perfection. Instead, he leaned into learning.
He welcomed customer feedback, kept refining his craft, and made sure every pair was cleaned or restored with the utmost care. His clients noticed—and word spread.
“We were honest from day one. If we didn’t know how to do something, we’d study it. Clients appreciated that we were always improving,” he told Financial Adviser PH.
That transparency helped build trust—and helped SoleProtect stand out from day one.
Mastery Isn’t Magic—It’s Repetition
Today, Laurence and his growing team offer full-service shoe care, including deep cleaning, deodorizing, sole reglue, and color restoration. But that mastery didn’t come from school—it came from showing up every day, being consistent, and embracing failure as part of the journey.
He’s now trained staff using the same principles he learned from experience: attention to detail, respect for the product, and pride in the process.
And the results speak for themselves—loyal customers, growing referrals, and a reputation for excellence in a niche market.
A Message for Self-Taught Hustlers
Ungson’s advice to anyone wanting to start a business—even in a field they know nothing about—is simple:
“You don’t have to be an expert to begin. Just start, keep learning, and stay consistent. The results will follow.”
