By: Jacob Stevens

Butch Meily’s book, From Manila to Wall Street: An Immigrant’s Journey With America’s First Black Tycoon, is not only a memoir of personal and professional success—it is also a profound exploration of cultural adaptation, ambition, and the unique challenges of being an immigrant in a competitive landscape. Through his experiences working with Reginald Lewis, one of America’s earliest Black billionaires, Meily delves into the nuances of race, opportunity, and perseverance in the corporate world.

A Story That Felt Necessary to Share

For over three decades, Meily felt a strong urge to document the life and legacy of Reginald Lewis, a businessman whose ambition and complexity left a lasting impression on him. His interactions with Lewis significantly influenced his understanding of race in America, exposing him to realities he had previously only seen through the lens of Hollywood films and literature. This deeper engagement with the Black experience in the U.S. reshaped Meily’s worldview, adding an unexpected but important layer to his journey.

From Manila to the Land of Opportunity

Growing up in Manila, Meily led a cloistered life, shaped by 16 years of Catholic schooling. When he arrived in America, he was struck by the comparative sense of freedom. A cousin in California told him that in the U.S., he could pursue almost anything he wanted as long as he did not infringe on another’s rights. This realization was liberating, fueling his ambitions in ways he had never imagined possible.

Joining TLC Beatrice International, the company that Lewis built, propelled Meily into a world of financial and professional success that would have been far less likely in Manila. His inherent ambition found a new playground in the U.S., where opportunities for growth and advancement were more readily available.

Navigating Challenges as an Immigrant on Wall Street

Despite the opportunities, Meily faced notable challenges as an immigrant in the corporate world. At his PR firm, he was explicitly told that certain prestigious investment banks and law firms—often referred to as “white shoe” firms—were often inaccessible for him. This societal and professional barrier made him keenly aware of the unspoken rules governing elite circles in the U.S.

To succeed, Meily adopted a philosophy of hard work and perseverance. He maintained that in America, if you were talented and determined, you could advance, no matter where you came from. This belief fueled his drive to push forward, work harder than his peers, and prove his worth in an environment where he was often an outsider.

The Immigrant Experience: Challenges and Opportunities

Meily’s journey illustrates the enduring power of the American Dream. While the path to success was not without obstacles, he believes that the U.S. is among the most welcoming countries for immigrants. His story serves as an example, demonstrating that with persistence, one can achieve remarkable things regardless of one’s background.

However, he also acknowledges that success does not necessarily translate into happiness. His experiences underscore the complexity of life’s journey—while opportunities abound, true fulfillment often requires more than just professional achievements.

Bridging Cultural Divides

Straddling two cultures—Filipino and American—Meily navigated the cultural gaps by holding on to his core values while embracing the changes America brought into his life. He took to heart his father’s advice: to recognize the many strengths of America and its people, but also to be mindful of their flaws. This balanced perspective helped him integrate into American society without losing his identity.

Lessons from a Black Tycoon

Working closely with Reginald Lewis taught Meily invaluable lessons about business and life. Among them, the most significant were persistence and decisiveness. Lewis operated by the mantra “Ready, fire, aim,” suggesting that waiting for perfect conditions before taking action could lead to missed opportunities. This philosophy became a guiding principle for Meily in both his career and personal ventures.

Taking Risks in Business

Throughout his career, Meily took measured risks, from PR strategies to large-scale disaster relief initiatives. One notable failure involved investing in a new design for temporary shelters—a gamble that did not pay off and cost the organization significantly. Yet, even in failure, Meily saw lessons in resilience and adaptability.

Advice for Today’s Immigrants

Meily’s message to immigrants striving for success is straightforward: work hard, get a good education, and stay true to your values. He advises against dwelling on perceived injustices or insulating oneself within ethnic enclaves. Instead, he encourages full participation in American culture, learning the language, and embracing the broader experience of life in the U.S.

By sharing his story, Butch Meily offers insights for immigrants seeking to make their mark in a new land. His journey—from Manila’s sheltered streets to Wall Street’s high-stakes environment—highlights the possibilities that await those who are willing to adapt, work hard, and take risks. In the end, his narrative is not just about business success; it is about the potential for transformation when embracing new opportunities while staying grounded in one’s roots.

Pre-order your copy of From Manila to Wall Street: An Immigrant’s Journey With America’s First Black Tycoon on Amazon today.

Published by Jeremy S.