When most people think of leaving a stable tech job, they imagine jumping into startups or corporate management. Laurence Angelo Ungson had a different plan: he left his full-time career as a web designer to clean and restore sneakers.
“When I saw other competitors opening branches, I knew this industry had real potential—and I took the leap,” Ungson tells Financial Adviser PH.
Today, his business SoleProtect is a go-to destination in La Union for sneaker cleaning, restoration, and care. What began as a side hustle during pandemic nights has grown into a thriving brand with a physical shop, a growing customer base, and plans for expansion.
From Web Design to Sole Care
After graduating with a degree in Information Technology, Ungson worked remotely for a US-based company, building websites and interfaces. But while he valued the income, something was missing.
“I wanted to build something of my own,” he says. “Something that aligned with both my interests and my long-term goals.”
With a lifelong love for sneakers and a newfound interest in cleanliness brought on by the pandemic, Ungson saw an opportunity: professional sneaker cleaning wasn’t yet available in his province.
A Side Hustle That Made Sense
The idea checked all the boxes:
- It was affordable to start (under ₱5,000 in capital)
- It could be run from home
- It addressed a real need in the market
So he began experimenting with DIY kits, testing methods, and offering services to friends and family. The response was overwhelmingly positive.
Soon, he created SoleProtect’s social media pages, launched targeted ads, and introduced pickup and delivery—all while still working full-time at night.
Knowing When to Make the Jump
The turning point came when Ungson noticed other sneaker care businesses expanding, confirming that this niche market was scalable, not just trendy.
“That’s when I decided to go all in,” he told Financial Adviser PH. “I left my job to focus entirely on building SoleProtect.”
It wasn’t an overnight decision—but it was the right one. In January 2024, he opened a physical store, signaling SoleProtect’s evolution from hustle to full-fledged business.
Why This Career Pivot Worked
Ungson’s leap of faith paid off for three key reasons:
Passion – He genuinely enjoyed the work, which made learning and improving easier.
Timing – The pandemic raised awareness around hygiene, creating demand for his services.
Market Fit – The sneaker community was growing, but proper restoration services were lacking.
By aligning passion with opportunity, he created a business that felt fulfilling—and financially viable.
Advice for Career Shifters
To those contemplating a similar move, Ungson says it’s not about quitting blindly—it’s about proving the concept first, building momentum, and making the jump when the time feels right.
“Start with what you have. Don’t wait for everything to be perfect. As long as you’re learning and serving a real need, you’re already building something valuable.”
