Sally Dimalanta: The People-First Co-Founder of UNAWA

Discover how Sally Dimalanta, UNAWA’s co-founder, champions people-first legal tech, driving innovation with empathy and user-focused solutions.

Melissa “Sally” Dimalanta stands out
as a beacon of people-first innovation. Recently acknowledged as one of UNAWA’s
co-founders, Sally’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and a
commitment to making technology work for the people it serves. As highlighted
in a recent
article on the UNAWA blog, Sally’s belief that “our team is our biggest
asset” underscores her leadership style and focus on nurturing talent to fuel
innovation.

A Trailblazer’s Professional Journey

Sally’s career began in the BPO sector, where
she dedicated 16 years to honing her skills in team dynamics and operations
management. Starting as an entry-level agent, she steadily rose to the rank of
Senior Director of Operations. These formative years not only showcased her
determination but also cultivated a deep appreciation for people-centric
leadership.

“I learned early on
that it’s not just about meeting KPIs or hitting targets. Success is built on
how we empower and engage the people behind those numbers.”

Her transition to UNAWA in 2021 marked a
significant pivot in her career. Initially brought on board as a consultant,
Sally focused on client management. Recognizing her knack for leadership and
her ability to foster team cohesion, she was soon offered full-time roles as
Senior Account Manager and later as HR Director.

A People-First Philosophy in a Tech-Driven World

At the heart of Sally’s work is her steadfast
belief that technology should be an enabler for people. As legal tech continues
to revolutionize industries, Sally is keenly aware of the challenges that come
with adopting new tools. Her approach is simple yet profound: prioritize user
experience without compromising on functionality or compliance.

“Technology should simplify, not intimidate.
At UNAWA, we aim to build solutions that are not just innovative but also
intuitive,” Sally explained in her interview.

This philosophy is evident in UNAWA’s flagship
products, such as SignSecure and UCheck. SignSecure, with its biometric authentication
powered by UNAWA
Face Recognition (UFR), offers a legally enforceable and user-friendly way
to sign documents. Similarly, UCheck streamlines Anti-Money Laundering (AML)
compliance by enabling efficient and accurate name screening.

“We’ve seen how intimidating compliance can
be, especially for smaller businesses. My goal is to ensure that our tools make
processes simpler and more accessible while keeping our clients compliant,”
Sally said.

The Road to Co-Foundership

Sally’s recent recognition as UNAWA’s
co-founder is both a milestone and a testament to her impact on the company.
This acknowledgment reflects her expanded role in shaping UNAWA’s strategic
direction, advocating for its team, and ensuring that its products align with
user needs. The announcement was celebrated in an article on Journal.com.ph,
which highlighted how Sally and her fellow co-founders are driving UNAWA’s
mission forward.

As HR Director, Sally introduced initiatives
that foster a collaborative and inclusive workplace. From organizing team
retreats to spearheading skill-building workshops, she has created an
environment where employees feel valued and empowered.

Her influence also extends beyond UNAWA’s
walls. As a co-founder, Sally has become a spokesperson for the company,
embodying its values of integrity, teamwork, and innovation. Whether presenting
at industry events or collaborating with partners, she represents the heart of
UNAWA’s mission: bridging the gap between people and technology.

Balancing Innovation with Humanity

Sally’s dual role as co-founder and HR
Director positions her uniquely within the company. She champions a balance
between technological advancement and human needs—a perspective she believes is
crucial in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.

“When we design
products, we always ask: How will this help our users? How will this make their
lives easier? It’s not just about the tech; it’s about the people who use it.”

This user-first approach has earned UNAWA a
reputation for delivering solutions that are as practical as they are
groundbreaking. For Sally, this is a point of pride and a motivation to
continue pushing boundaries.

Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Empowerment

Sally’s journey from operations leader to
co-founder is a testament to her adaptability and vision. As UNAWA continues to
expand its offerings and reach, Sally remains committed to ensuring that its
people-first philosophy stays at the core of its operations.

Reflecting on her role, she shared: “Being
recognized as a co-founder is an honor, but it’s also a responsibility. It’s a
reminder that we’re not just building products—we’re building trust,
relationships, and a future where technology truly empowers people.”

Her words encapsulate the essence of her
leadership: a blend of empathy, innovation, and a deep-rooted belief in the
power of collaboration. For Sally, the acknowledgment as co-founder is not just
a title—it’s a validation of her relentless efforts to champion both people and
technology.

As UNAWA continues to lead the way in legal
tech, Sally Dimalanta’s story will undoubtedly inspire others to embrace a
people-first approach, proving that innovation is most impactful when it serves
those who need it most.

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES