Dashing dads

MANILA, Philippines -There is a new consciousness among today’s generation of dads.  They married in their late 20s or early 30s  — they are of a different level — they love good healthy food, they gym, they like to travel and explore new places, enjoy being pro-active with their kids growing up, and make time for “date night” with their wives.

My son-in-law Chris knows how to change nappies (upon the princess’ request) and tells his wife to sleep in on a weekend as he takes over.  I’ve had an eye-opener these past two years after being a “Nana” to Karine.  Curiously chatting with young moms on how their husbands are with babies, toddlers and kids. These amazing partners are hands-on. Wow — you young moms are lucky!

 These young dads are inspirations to me and I admire them not only for what they have achieved as both fathers and successful entrepreneurs but also for their sense of style, be it casually chic or formally sophisticated. I was excited to dress them for Silk Cocoon’s latest capsule collection of shirts which are made from stretch cotton.

I designed these shirts for younger men who are fashion-conscious and have the strength of character to carry them. The shirts have details of pleating and embroidery, more modern collars, new cuffs, new darts and cuts to shape the body more – an Italian fit.  It makes a more interesting look that is versatile – to wear for travel, work, or out to a cocktail or dinner – to pair with dress pants, denim or khakis, tucked in or worn out.

I have been inspired as I watch Chris pick his shirts from his different travels – and realize that there is that missing element of edgy shirts for the confident young entrepreneurs on the move – they wear lilac, peach, salmon pink, all shades of blues and greens and are bold enough to wear shirts with embroidery.

Chris Feist

Wife: Katrina Goulbourn

Daughter:  Karine (2)

Company: Advanced Nutritional Technologies, Inc.  (Dr. Edwards sterilized drinking water, Hipp organic milk for babies)

The best part of being a father is waking up in the morning and hearing my daughter Karine say “Hi, Dada.” This always makes my day. Sometimes I get a big hug and kiss which is extra special. My wife Katrina and I get the most joy out of all the little things that she does daily that make us laugh.

The best lesson I always teach my kid? We always teach her to say “Please” and “Thank you.” It's easy to think that you can teach your child this at a later stage, but if you start early it becomes a habit that carries on through the rest of his or her life.

The best lesson I have learned from her? Watch what you say because when you least expect it, she'll repeat that word she was not supposed to hear. Ask me a year from now and I'm sure I'll have about 10 other lessons she's taught me.

David Azanza

Wife: Kat Rempe

Children:  Nicolas (15), Matteo (12), Luca (3)

Company: Feelgood Inc. (Juju Cleanse and Juju Eats)

The best part of being a father is introducing my kids to all the things that I love and am passionate about and seeing them respond the same way I would at that age.

The best lesson I always teach my kids is  there’s always room for humour.

The best lesson I have learned from them is that everything is awesome.

Carlo Lopez

Wife: Monique Albert

Daughter:  Thalisa  (20 months)

Company:  Waigu Inc.  (Bye Bye Mosquito)

The best part of being a father is realizing and finally knowing how my Dad feels about me.  It’s a feeling of what it is to love someone more than yourself... Entering the house after a long day at work and seeing her face light up with excitement and have her run over and cling to you with so much joy.

The best lesson I always teach my kid? As my daughter is only one year old, best I can do is to teach by example. What you do is more important than what you say. As she gets older I’d like to impart the right set of values my parents taught me. I want her to learn to be honest, confident, have a sense of self-worth and be a kind, compassionate, respectful, humble and God-fearing person.

The best lesson I have learned from her? Being a hands-on dad is very rewarding. I've learned to have an infinite reserve of patience and tolerance.  I have become more nurturing, giving my daughter lots of love and affection, hugs and smiles.

Roque Tordesillas

Wife: Maritoni Rufino

Children:  Emilio (15), Tessa (9)

Company:  Intrasia Investment & Management Corp.

The best part of being a father? When I think about my children, or when I just observe them, I often experience what I can only describe as pure joy.  I am truly happiest when I am with my wife and my children.  I feel close to God during those moments when I become aware of the intense love I have for them.

The most important lesson I always teach my children is to seek to love God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind.  And love your neighbor as God loves you.

The most important lesson I have learned from them is how important it is to listen.  As a parent, my instinct is to turn everything into a lesson – to keep teaching, to keep explaining or even warning. I can also be very opinionated and I often catch myself pushing my opinions on them. If overdone, I could miss out on hearing what they have to say stories to tell, experiences to share, questions to ask, and opinions to voice.