By: Clara Jennings

In Butch Meily chronicles his remarkable transition from a cloistered life in the Philippines to the high-stakes world of American business. His story is one of ambition, adaptation, and profound personal growth, shaped by both cultural contrasts and the mentorship of Reginald F. Lewis, the first Black tycoon in America.

A Newfound Freedom in America

Meily’s early years in Manila were marked by a strict Catholic education and a conservative environment. Moving to the United States was a liberating experience, one that transformed his outlook on life and ambition. “It was like getting out of jail,” Meily recalls. He embraced the American ethos of freedom and opportunity, recognizing that hard work and talent could take him further than he ever imagined.

Joining TLC Beatrice International, Lewis’s conglomerate, catapulted Meily into a financial league that would have been unattainable had he remained in the Philippines. His ambition, already strong, was supercharged by the vast possibilities in America. He quickly learned that in this new land, success depended not only on effort but also on the ability to adapt to its direct and assertive business culture.

The Cultural Balancing Act

One of the challenges Meily faced was balancing his Filipino identity with the demands of American corporate culture. Filipinos, he explains, are generally modest and hesitant to draw attention to themselves—an approach that didn’t serve him well in the competitive and aggressive business landscape of New York City. He had to push past cultural tendencies of deference and embrace a more assertive, outspoken style.

Despite these changes, Meily remained rooted in the values instilled in him by his upbringing. His father’s letter, which he quotes in the book, reminded him that while America was a land of great opportunities and admirable people, it also had flaws. That wisdom guided him through his professional and personal journey, helping him discern when to embrace change and when to hold onto his core values.

Lessons from a Titan of Industry

At the heart of Meily’s professional growth was his mentorship under Reginald F. Lewis. Working alongside Lewis gave him invaluable insights into both the Black experience in America and the power of Wall Street’s financial mechanisms, particularly leveraged buyouts (LBOs). Meily witnessed firsthand how wealth could be created and how business could be a tool for empowerment.

The experience also left a deep personal impact. The intense six years he spent working with Lewis were filled with both exhilarating successes and painful challenges. The sudden passing of his mentor was a jarring lesson in the unpredictability of life and the importance of balancing work with family. Meily reflects that while he gained much in his career, he might have saved his marriage had he prioritized family time more.

Navigating Business as an Immigrant

As an immigrant in a fast-paced industry, Meily chose to stay true to his principles. Honesty and integrity were his guiding tenets in all professional dealings. While he acknowledges that being an immigrant and a minority could have been perceived as obstacles, he saw himself simply as another professional striving for success.

Taking risks was part of his journey. In the realm of public relations, every media interaction carried a level of uncertainty. Later, as head of the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation, he made bold decisions, including one that led to a costly failure. But for Meily, taking calculated risks was essential to making an impact, whether in business or humanitarian efforts.

The Enduring Promise of the American Dream

Through his book, Meily hopes to inspire readers—especially those from immigrant backgrounds—with the message that the American Dream remains attainable. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, adaptability, and staying grounded in faith and family.

His journey also serves as a reminder of the richness of America’s diversity. “Black people are good people and they’re just like everyone else“, he notes, pointing out that some immigrants arrive with their own prejudices. His experiences, particularly with Lewis, taught him that success knows no racial boundaries, and that America, for all its flaws, still offers tremendous opportunities to those willing to seize them.

Ultimately, Meily’s story is not just about business—it is about transformation, cultural exchange, and the relentless pursuit of success while staying true to one’s roots. His book serves as both a memoir and a roadmap for those who dare to dream beyond borders.

Get your copy of From Manila to Wall Street: An Immigrant’s Journey With America’s First Black Tycoon on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

Disclaimer: The content of this interview is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. The American Dream, as discussed in this article, is a personal perspective and may vary for different individuals. The publication makes no claims regarding the accuracy or completeness of the statements made by the interviewee.

Published by Jeremy S.