At JR Wholesale Meats, women have broken barriers and redefined roles in an industry traditionally dominated by men.
Many of these women never anticipated careers in the meat industry but found their way through opportunity, determination, and a drive to learn.
Micah Busante Crisologo, Logistics Supervisor/ Project Manager
Micah Busante Crisologo never imagined a career in logistics, but a drive to upskill and take on new challenges led her straight into the fast-paced world of supply chain management.
Starting as a logistics administrator, she quickly found herself drawn to the dynamic, high-responsibility nature of the industry. Over time, she worked her way up to logistics supervisor, embracing every challenge along the way.
Her mother, who has been working at JR Wholesale Meats' production team, encouraged her to apply for an open role in logistics. This decision set her on a path of continuous learning and growth.
Crisologo was inspired by leaders like Adele Murphy at JR Wholesale Meats, whose dedication and vision have made the company a standout name in the industry.
“Watching Adele build a thriving business while balancing family life has been a lesson in resilience and ambition. She’s proof that with hard work and the right support, anything is possible,” said Crisologo.
“Confidence is key, but so is support. We need to normalize women being on the front lines, leading, and making an impact.”
She too has been passionate about fostering a workplace where women feel empowered and has championed equal opportunities, mentorship, and ensuring that women’s voices are heard.
As for the future, she hoped to see more women in leadership roles and greater support for female entrepreneurs.
“It’s not just about representation; it’s about creating opportunities, driving innovation, and shaping an industry that values and uplifts women at every level.”
Winny Zhao, Sales Development
Winny Zhao’s journey into the meat supply industry was inspired by her passion for high-quality food. Starting in store sales, she quickly realised the importance of connecting premium meat products with the right customers, particularly in the Asian market.
Over the past three years, she has developed a deep understanding of customer preferences, market trends, and supply chain dynamics, fueling her drive to grow in the industry.
Now, as an Asian market sales specialist, she has committed to bridging the gap between suppliers and consumers, ensuring they receive the best products available.
Before entering the industry, Zhao spent seven years in hospitality. Her time in foodservice gave her a deep appreciation for quality ingredients and their impact on dining experiences. However, it was motherhood that enhanced her awareness of food quality and safety and led her to explore opportunities beyond the kitchen.
“If I could go back, I’d tell myself to be patient, build strong relationships, and never stop learning,” said Zhao.
“Success in this industry isn’t just about what you sell; it’s about the connections you build and how well you adapt to change.”
Zhao credited much of her growth to the mentorship of her boss and manager, who helped her build her skills in market analysis, negotiation, and relationship-building.
“They’ve taught me the importance of building trust, understanding customer needs, and adapting to market changes.”
As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Zhao has also been passionate about fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment.
“Encouraging open communication is key. Women need to feel comfortable sharing ideas and challenges without hesitation. We need more women in decision-making positions, shaping the future of this business.”
She also understood the importance of work-life balance, especially as a mother, and supported flexible work arrangements that help women thrive both professionally and personally.
Rovina Schofield, Quality & Food Safety Manager
Rovina Schofield’s journey in the meat industry began with a desire to challenge herself and grow. With a background in microbiology, she initially thought her career would be confined to lab work. However, after a year in the lab, she realised it wasn’t the right fit. When an opportunity arose to apply her scientific expertise in the meat industry, she took the leap. She credited much of her growth to Stan Murphy, a mentor who provided her with invaluable guidance, support, and feedback.
One of the biggest challenges Schofield has encountered as a woman in the industry is not being taken seriously compared to her male counterparts. She has seen how this can lead to self-doubt and second-guessing.
She has committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for women in her workplace. She has worked to build a culture where feedback is welcomed, concerns are addressed without fear, and women feel empowered to take on leadership roles.
“More recognition, equal respect, and a business landscape where women don’t have to constantly prove their worth.”
Mong Na Boon, E-Commerce Coordinator Team Lead
Mong Na Boon’s journey into the butchery and meat industry was sparked by curiosity. She wanted to understand where food comes from, how quality is ensured, and what goes into producing sustainable, ethically sourced meat.
“For me, quality meat isn’t just about taste; it’s about ensuring humane treatment of animals, respecting the environment, and being mindful of the communities involved,” said Boon.
“The energy and complexity of the industry captivated me from day one. The more I learned about the production side of things, the more I appreciated being part of a business that values quality, sustainability, and community. It’s been a rewarding journey ever since.”
While Boon’s career has been rooted in butchery and meat production, her biggest inspiration came from the culinary world; Nadia Lim’s commitment to healthy, sustainable eating and accessible nutrition resonates deeply with her.
“She understands the importance of quality ingredients, including meat, and she champions responsible sourcing. Watching her work has reinforced the importance of educating consumers about where their food comes from.”
Being in a male-dominated industry, Boon has also learned from Lim the importance of mindfulness, confidence, and advocacy, ensuring that both industry professionals and consumers are better informed about the food they consume.
She believed that creating an inclusive and supportive workplace starts with fostering a sense of community among women in the industry. She actively encouraged open conversations, mentorship, and professional development to ensure women feel valued and heard.
“When women support each other, it creates a positive cycle of empowerment and growth. The industry can be tough, but each challenge builds confidence and skill. Never stop learning, always ask questions, and don’t rush the process; mastery takes time.”
For Boon, true progress in the business landscape meant ensuring that women are treated with the same professionalism, respect, and leadership opportunities as their male counterparts.
“It’s about more than just balancing the numbers—it’s about ensuring women’s contributions are acknowledged, compensated fairly, and respected. We need to create workplaces where women feel safe, valued, and empowered.”
Elsie Ulaula, Factory Packing Supervisor
For Elsie Ulaula, joining the industry was a decision shaped by family and practicality. The flexibility of her work hours was the perfect fit for her lifestyle, allowing her to balance her responsibilities at home.
This entry into the industry was also part of her journey back into the workforce. After some time away, she made the decision to return, finding an opportunity in the factory packing sector. It was a fresh start that not only allowed her to reenter the workforce but also provided a sense of stability and purpose.
Having a strong support system at work has made a huge difference in Ulaula’s journey. Being mentored by someone with experience has helped her grow in confidence and navigate the challenges of her role.
Reflecting on her experience, Ulaula emphasised the importance of asking questions and not being afraid to learn. She also encouraged others to take the leap and trust themselves. By providing access to learning and development opportunities early on, she has envisioned a future where women are more confident in taking up leadership positions and driving meaningful change in their fields.
Instead of limiting women’s roles due to outdated safety concerns, she advocated for an inclusive environment where women are given the same opportunities to learn and grow. She also hoped to see more women stepping into leadership roles across industries.
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