What began as a simple curiosity about scents has blossomed into a thriving business for Sophia Navarro, a 25-year-old entrepreneur from Davao. Her passion for crafting unique fragrances, driven by a fascination with how scents evoke powerful memories and emotions, has evolved into a thriving venture in the fragrance industry.
Sophia's journey began humbly in mid-2024, when she started creating perfumes for herself and gifting them to close friends. Word spread quickly, and before long, she was selling her creations to her inner circle. This initial success sparked her drive to take her passion further. She attended local flea markets and offered her products at pop-up events, gradually building a presence in the local community. Eventually, she launched her own brand, “Lithiá”, a name she had once dreamed of for her product.
she told VoxPop Davao when asked about the inspiration behind her small business.
“Now, as I’ve fully blossomed into a woman, I realize how much my connection to fragrance has become a part of my identity. It’s a way for me to express not only my outward femininity but also the layers of complexity, strength, and mystery that define me.”
These early experiences taught her the ins and outs of entrepreneurship, from product presentation to customer interactions, laying the foundation for what would eventually become a growing business.
As her brand gained traction, Sophia, originally from Hagonoy, Davao del Sur, saw the potential to reach a larger audience. With her sharp entrepreneurial instinct, she ventured into the online marketplace, launching “Lithiá” on Facebook and Instagram. Her products, primarily car diffusers and perfumes, quickly became popular, and she sold thousands of units.
This move allowed her to tap into a wide market, offering her self-made fragrances to a diverse customer base. Her online presence has further solidified her brand, blending her love for fragrances with the convenience and reach of digital platforms.
After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication from the University of Mindanao (UM) in 2022, Sophia ventured into business and marketing opportunities while working in a prominent banking industry.
As a savvy entrepreneur, she uses her communication skills to promote her brand while emphasizing sustainability and authenticity, which set her apart in the competitive fragrance world.
What’s more, Sophia’s business success is deeply intertwined with her love for animals. She has made it a point to donate a portion of her sales to charity, particularly to animal shelters in need. She allocates half of her sales to support these shelters, helping to provide food and care for the animals.
“This business has not only allowed me to pursue my passion for fragrances, but it has also taught me to deepen my love and connection to animals. I have always been an animal supporter, and through my success, I have been able to give back to causes that are close to my heart. Being able to support animal shelters, particularly in providing food and care for the animals, has become one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey,” she said, noting that success is not just about personal growth but also about giving back and helping those who cannot help themselves.
“I am always grateful to the people who have helped me along the way. While I value my independence, I have the best people who inspire me. I know venturing into business, especially with a product that’s unique, is risky, but sometimes, you have to do it scared so there are no regrets in the end,” she added.
From humble beginnings to a flourishing business, Sophia’s entrepreneurial spirit, commitment to her craft, and generous heart continue to drive her success, proving that following one’s passion can lead to extraordinary growth. DEF