Young entrepreneur shares blueprint for balanced life
MANILA, Philippines — Zephaniah “Khalid” Mesa stands as a quiet but powerful counter-narrative. At just 29, he’s achieved what many chase for decades — he’s the co-owner of Zion Philippines, a luxury massage chair brand; Pablings Barbershop, a modern grooming haven; and heads Veryfyd Platforms Inc., a tech company on the brink of its next big launch.
But what truly sets him apart is his unapologetic belief in something most entrepreneurs sideline: balance.
For Mesa, wellness isn’t just a marketing buzzword — it’s a way of life. “When your mind and body are well-rested, you’re sharper, kinder, and more creative”. “People think rest slows you down. But it’s actually the recharge that speeds you up.”
It’s no accident that one of his flagship businesses is all about relaxation. Zion Philippines doesn’t just sell massage chairs — it sells the lifestyle Mesa himself practices: one that honors hard work but equally values downtime. The same can be said about Pablings Barbershop, which he envisioned as a space where self-care meets everyday routine — a pause button in the middle of the urban rush.
Mesa is also the founder of The Project Eight Initiative, a diverse community of advocates united by a shared mission: to empower individuals across all facets of life. Through inclusive initiatives and meaningful engagement, they strive to inspire personal growth, social impact, and collective well-being.
Mesa’s entrepreneurial roots are anything but cushy. At 12, he was selling mangoes and fish at the local market. Later, he hustled flowers and trinkets through the bustling corners of Tomas Morato. Every venture, no matter how small, was a stepping stone — not just to financial freedom but to a future where he could redefine success on his own terms.
“I’ve seen what burnout looks like — I've lived it. That’s why I build differently now,” Mesa says. His approach to business centers on people, purpose, and yes, pauses. In a fast-paced work environment, he encourages his team to take breaks, go home on time, and protect their weekends whenever possible. “Burnout doesn’t build businesses. Passion does. And passion needs rest to stay alive.”
This philosophy carries through even in his leadership style. Mesa leads with empathy and insists that strength is not in control, but in care. He mentors his employees and reminds them to take care of themselves first, a lesson he’s learned the hard way after facing betrayals, failures, and emotional exhaustion.
Faith plays a central role in keeping him grounded. He starts his day with prayer, ends it with reflection, and in between, finds comfort in quiet rituals — like a walk, a shared meal, or time with family. He’s also the founder of Change Life Cares Foundation Inc. and Lawyers for Christ, both expressions of his belief that success without service is hollow.
“As much as I love the thrill of building something, I don’t want to miss the little joys along the way,” he says. “Because really, what’s the point of success if you’re too tired to enjoy it?”
As Mesa looks to the future — with plans to expand his brands and uplift more communities — he stays anchored in one truth: the best version of a leader, a husband, a dreamer, shows up when rested, whole, and present.
In an era dominated by hustle culture, Mesa offers a refreshing reminder: balance is not the enemy of ambition — it’s the fuel behind it.
