For Rose Ayuyu Morales, SHRM-CP, life is an adventure.
She grew up on the beautiful island of Guam, located in the Western Pacific, before moving to California and launching her HR career there. After 23 years, she returned to the island in 2012—and found it’s the perfect home base as she pursues her love of travel.
When not at work or seeing the world, she shares her energy and enthusiasm with other HR professionals as president of the Society for Human Resource Management’s (SHRM’s) Guam chapter. Under her leadership, the chapter last year received a Pinnacle Award, was recognized by the SHRM Foundation as one of its top 25 fundraising chapters, and increased membership and attendance at its monthly breakfast briefings.
But she’s most excited about the work she has yet to do. As J.R.R. Tolkien wrote, “The greatest adventure is what lies ahead.”
What motivates you?
Knowing that I made a small difference in someone else’s life. Seeing the person grow to be a better individual. Giving back to the community that we live in. That’s the biggest reason why I volunteer with SHRM and other organizations.
What do you do in your spare time?
I love reading, shopping and, most of all, traveling. I find every spare moment to explore new places, which can be hard sometimes living on a remote island. But that’s the fun in it—trying to figure out how to get somewhere for a three-day weekend. The best thing about being on Guam is that within a few hours, you can get to the Philippines, Japan and Hong Kong. And in just 45 minutes, you can be on the beautiful island of Saipan, the largest of the Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. commonwealth.
What is your work philosophy?
Lead by example. Do the right thing. Always give your best, and never be afraid to ask for help.