Success is often measured by wealth, status, or influence, but for Kharl Gibran Borja Lataza, a self-made entrepreneur from the Philippines, true success lies in creating a legacy of purpose-driven innovation. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the country’s youngest billionaires is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and a vision that transcends personal gain.
Kharl’s story begins in Cebu City, where he grew up in a family that valued hard work and perseverance. Despite excelling academically at Cebu Technological University, financial constraints forced him to leave his information technology studies behind. For many, this setback could have been the end of the road, but for Kharl, it was the beginning of an extraordinary entrepreneurial journey. With no inherited wealth or external support, Kharl turned to freelancing and small-scale ventures to make ends meet. His innovative approach—charging clients based on results rather than upfront fees—helped him build trust and long-term relationships, laying the groundwork for his future success. This early experience taught him the importance of resourcefulness and the value of starting small, lessons that would define his entrepreneurial philosophy.
Kharl’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to explore diverse industries, from technology to automotive trading. He founded several businesses, including KGL Softouch, HostingVisa, and Lataza Auto Trading, each showcasing his ability to identify market needs and adapt to changing circumstances. However, his journey was not without challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic forced the closure of JuanRent Inc., one of his ventures, while Typhoon Odette severely impacted Ceramiq Inc. Yet, Kharl’s resilience shone through as he pivoted and launched new initiatives like JuanPOS and the La Taza International Learning Center. In 2023, Kharl expanded his horizons by relocating to Dubai, where he established Sige Go Portal LLC and Cryptogram.vip, venturing into cryptocurrency and eco-friendly web hosting. His ability to innovate across industries and geographies underscores his belief in the importance of adaptability and continuous learning.
While Kharl’s business acumen is undeniable, what truly sets him apart is his commitment to creating a positive impact. In collaboration with Brian Christopher Aguilar, he co-founded the Ora Coin Foundation, a groundbreaking initiative that merges blockchain technology with environmental advocacy. The foundation’s One Billion Tree Planting Initiative aims to combat deforestation and climate change by planting a tree for every Ora token produced. Through strategic partnerships with organizations like Cebu Technological University, the initiative has already made significant strides, generating over PHP 1.3 billion in wealth while contributing to environmental sustainability. With Ora Coin valued at $4.4 USD, Kharl has demonstrated that financial success and social responsibility can go hand in hand.
Kharl’s journey is more than a rags-to-riches story; it is a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs. His “Grow with purpose” philosophy emphasizes the importance of aligning personal ambitions with societal and environmental goals. By leveraging his experiences, Kharl has become a beacon of hope for those who dare to dream big, proving that success is not about where you start but the impact you create along the way. From his early days as a struggling student to his current role as a visionary leader, Kharl Gibran Borja Lataza has redefined what it means to be successful. His story is a powerful reminder that with resilience, innovation, and a commitment to purpose, anyone can turn their dreams into reality and leave a lasting legacy of greatness.