Sheryle Gillihan is the CEO and owner of CauseLabs, a purpose-driven technology company that uses digital innovation to create meaningful social impact worldwide. Inspired by her immigrant roots, personal experiences, and passion for creating access and opportunity, Sheryle leads a mission focused on using technology for good. Fuzia is proud to feature her journey through Humans of Fuzia, celebrating her commitment to empowering communities, driving innovation, and leading with purpose.
Q: What inspired you to become the person you are today?
Sheryle: My biggest inspiration has been my mother. She immigrated to the United States from the Philippines and left everything behind — her family, language, and country — to create better opportunities for our future. She constantly reminded me of the sacrifices she made so I could access education, healthcare, and opportunities.
That sense of responsibility shaped my work ethic and pushed me to strive for excellence. Later in life, my husband also played a major role in shaping my journey. He encouraged me to pursue work aligned with my passion when I realized that the traditional corporate path wasn’t fulfilling for me.
Q: How did your journey with CauseLabs begin?
Sheryle: I joined CauseLabs in 2010, long before becoming its owner. At the time, I was working in mergers and acquisitions, climbing the corporate ladder, but I wasn’t truly happy. My husband found a job opening at CauseLabs and encouraged me to apply.
Soon after joining, I had the opportunity to travel to rural India, where I witnessed firsthand how limited access to basic resources still affects many communities. That experience deeply resonated with me because it reflected parts of my own childhood.
It helped me realize the power of technology to provide global access — whether through education, financial tools, or communication — and that’s what made me passionate about working in tech for social good.
Q: What does CauseLabs do and what impact does it create?
Sheryle: CauseLabs is a technology agency focused on using digital solutions to create positive social impact. We work with nonprofit organizations and enterprises to support sustainability, education, and community development initiatives.
We’ve worked on projects such as:
- Mobile money and digital payment solutions in developing regions
- SMS-based communication systems for communities in poverty
- Education and mentoring programs in rural areas
- Technology platforms that expand access to information and economic opportunities
Our mission is simple — to use technology to open doors and create opportunities for people who otherwise wouldn’t have access.
Q: What challenges did you face as an entrepreneur and business leader?
Sheryle: Entrepreneurship involves much more than passion. There are constant challenges — managing cash flow, hiring the right people, building a strong team, and maintaining financial sustainability.
When I took over as CEO, the company was facing financial difficulties and was close to bankruptcy. Understanding financial management, building strong partnerships, and making difficult leadership decisions were essential to turning the company around.
Running a business requires balancing vision with practical operations — from team management to accounting and client relationships. It’s not glamorous; it requires continuous learning and resilience.
Q: What are your thoughts on women empowerment, especially in the tech industry?
Sheryle: When I was first offered the CEO position, I initially said no because I doubted my ability. I experienced imposter syndrome and feared letting my team down.
What helped me move forward was support — from my husband and from other leaders who encouraged me and helped me realize that leadership roles aren’t reserved for extraordinary people; they’re filled by individuals willing to grow and learn.
For me, women empowerment means recognizing our capabilities, stepping into opportunities, and supporting one another’s growth. Having a strong support system makes a tremendous difference in helping women lead with confidence.
Q: What message would you like to share with aspiring entrepreneurs?
Sheryle: Support and encouragement exist all around us — not just from mentors above us, but from peers and even those we guide. Mentoring others and helping someone grow can reveal your own strengths and capabilities.
Leadership and growth come from community, connection, and shared learning.
“Encouragement and support come from all around us — not necessarily from above.”
Connect with Sheryle Gillihan:
https://sherylegillihan.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgillihan/
CauseLabs.com
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