From the Philippines to Peace River

A Story of Ambition & Success

Labelle Enerio | Peace River, AB

Labelle Enerio (centre) and the KFC Peace River team

From the bustling streets of the Philippines to the quiet charm of Peace River, Labelle Enerio’s journey is one of resilience and ambition.

After moving to Canada 17 years ago in search of new opportunities, Enerio worked her way up and eventually became the proud owner of KFC Peace River—turning her entrepreneurial vision into a reality.

“It was always my dream to go out of the country and explore another place,” said Enerio. “I wanted to bring my family here to enjoy a great future and more opportunities.”

Growing up in the southern part of the Philippines in a village, Enerio experienced a humble life, and her parents worked hard to give their children the best they could.

Determined to succeed, EInerio focused on her education. She received a scholarship to a prestigious school where she earned a degree in management accounting.

“I was working in government before moving to Canada, so starting over was a big change,” said Enerio. “I arrived in Fort McMurray in March 2008 as a temporary foreign worker and went from working in an office back home to a dollar store in a new country, adjusting not only to a different job but also to a very different climate.”

Aside from adapting to the weather, Enerio also had to re-learn parts of the language as many of the American English terms she was familiar with in the Philippines weren’t commonly used in Alberta.

“My colleagues helped me with a lot of the terms at the time,” said Enerio. “I also adjusted to the culture here by observing people whenever I could.”

Enerio moved to Peace River where she worked at KFC as a cashier, cook and eventually assisting with bookkeeping. All the while, she never expected the answer to one simple question would shape her future.

“When my boss asked where we saw ourselves in five years, everyone said supervisor or manager,” said Enerio. “I was the last to answer, and I just said ‘entrepreneur.’ I didn’t know he’d remember that.”

In 2015, Enerio’s boss mentioned he wanted to sell the business. Enerio planned to stay on as an employee until a new franchisee could take over.

After about a year with no interest from larger franchisee owners willing to move north, he remembered Enerio’s dream of becoming an entrepreneur—a goal she had shared with him six years earlier.

“At first, I was shocked when he told me I should take it over,” said Enerio. “I was living paycheck to paycheck, but he said that since I knew the banks and how to deal with them, he encouraged me to start a business plan.”

Having the opportunity to pursue her dream, Enerio was determined to make it happen. With her business plan, her background in management accounting and her experience at KFC Peace River, she was able to secure a loan and schedule an interview with the KFC panel.

“This was the first time they considered giving ownership to an employee, and they were hesitant. They wanted to ensure I was in it for the long run,” said Enerio. “I told them I had stayed through both the boom and recession years, and I wasn’t going anywhere. That gave them the confidence to move forward.”

In 2017, Enerio became the owner of KFC Peace River and transitioned into her new role seamlessly. She quickly learned her employees were ready to succeed alongside her.

“They were very happy for me and stuck by my side as I took on this new position,” said Enerio. “Showing our customers and the community that we had the same staff members who wanted to provide the best service possible made a big difference.”

The sense of community they felt in Peace River was a defining factor in Enerio’s decision to own a local business and stay in the area. She and her husband found comfort in the townspeople’s kindness and support.

“Peace River is such a close-knit community where people really care about each other,” said Enerio. “Whether it’s at church, the Rotary or just walking down the street, people are so welcoming, and it makes us feel like this is where we truly belong.”

Today, Enerio works to grow her business and improve their company processes.

“My future goal is to have another restaurant one day, but for now we want to focus on making our service even better and continue serving our community,” said Enerio.

Enerio encourages those considering a move to Canada to seize the opportunities available to them. She believes success is possible, but it requires effort and vision.

“Canada offers equal opportunities for everyone, and it’s up to you to take them, but you have to do the work,” said Enerio. “If you’re considering moving here, be open to bigger opportunities, and if you find some, take them.”

Enerio trusts her faith to guide her and often refers to a particular bible verse to keep her going.

“I think of Matthew 6:33, which says ‘But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you,’” said Enerio. “It’s one of my favourites.”

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By Dani Wearden | Photography by Tyrell Parenteau