By: Olivia Nerpouni & Alondra Nicole

Recognized internationally for her entrepreneurial accomplishments and transformative leadership abilities, Leila Crisotbal has over 25 years of experience in international commerce. As the CEO and Founder of Elegant Trio Colors Inc., her operative philosophy reflects the modernization of practicing ethical business practices.

Leila’s business career began with a solid foundation; as former CPA and Head Auditor of a private commerce company, she mastered her skills of financial stewardship. It was her pivotal contributions to World Balance that placed her in the spotlight of corporate expertise. During the 1990’s international import-export crisis, World Balance was a struggling shoe brand on the verge of taking a damaging plunge. However, under Leila’s guidance, World Balance underwent an impressive revival, emerging maximally profitable. Cristobal’s approach to assessing the financial blind spots at World Balance solidified her reputation as a talented economic figure. Such career milestones fueled Leila’s ambition to venture into entrepreneurship on her own.

Cristobal’s personal business journey began in the midst of a lucky encounter. A client was seeking out Leila’s private guidance regarding her retirement from salon ownership. As the two began to discuss the inner workings of joining forces for a transitional project, a new business idea was formed. Jazzy France, a legacy cosmetics brand that revolutionized the ethnic beauty industry – was the brainchild idea of none other than Leila Cristobal. “During a trip to Paris, I realized that embracing diverse skin tones would put Jazzy France ahead of the curve,” revealed Leila. “This epiphany birthed Jazzy France into a name of inclusivity at a time when the market’s options were limited to pink-tone cosmetics.”

Jazzy France initially launched in Manila, but Leila quickly spread the powerhouse brand to 240 strategic locations across the Philippines as both a mix of kiosks and stand-alone stores. In 2018, Jazzy France began being sold through American retailers, specifically expanding merchandise presence throughout Southern California. “Jazzy France personnel stitch together the success we have experienced. Ethical leadership principles involve providing stable employment. There’s a direct correlation between internal morale and customer satisfaction, as well as there is a correlation between ethical leadership and honest-made profit,” said Leila. “The financial success of Jazzy France has been shared with our communities through providing scholarships to aspiring college students, and donating a percentage of our proceeds to sick children in different countries.” Jazzy France products are 100% vegan and crafted in Paris.

Entrepreneurial endeavors did not stop at cosmetics for business prowess. As Jazzy France continued to expand internationally, Leila Cristobal savvily developed Gatsby – a fusion of Filipino-American cuisine. With 15 thriving locations splashed throughout the Philippines, and an exciting location in West Covina, California – Gatsby reflects Leila’s culinary roots and adds to her growing list of business-related accomplishments.

Fom auditor, to beauty mogul, to restaurateur, Leila Cristobal is the embodiment of female dynamism. Each branch, product, and dish is a testament to her inextinguishable inner flame. “I feel that my purpose is to elevate standards and break barriers,” expressed Leila. As a beacon of inspiration to businesspeople and customers alike, Leila’s empire is a golden token within the entrepreneurship industry.