On March 8th, 2024, some of the most beautiful, empowered, and empowering women gathered together to celebrate the international women’s month, at Mayuri ballroom in Dusit Thani hotel, Makati. The conference was entitled: Women Lead.
This successful event was organized by the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines headed by Sergio Boero (President), Lorens Ziller (VP) with their director of events and marketing Ms. Gabrielle Lopez. The conference was in partnership with the Global Women BPW Club under the supervision of their inspirational executive director Rayla Allertsen (CEO, Global Educator). The club was founded Myrna Yao.
Powerful and encouraging speakers such as Ms. Charo Santos-Concio (Executive Consultant of ABS-CBN), Martha Sazon (CEO, GCash), Rosemarie Rafael (Chairman Airspeed and WomenBiz), Sarah Mateo (SPD Jobs Inc), Gabby Concepcion (GMA 7 Television host & partner, NMGRA Law offices), shared their inspiring life journey with courage and wisdom. Their highs and lows, challenges – which later led to flourishing opportunities, self-empowerment, and stability.
I was fortunate to be one of the panelists in the health, beauty, and wellness segment, which was moderated by the witty and lovely Monette Hamlin (CEO, TeamAsia). Together with me in the panel was a dear friend Leah Yolo, MD (CEO, Kaizer International), and Sherry Bolisay (Luxe Beauty & Wellness Group).
Other amazing panelists who generously shared their expertise in their respective enterprise were: Myrna Tang-Yao (CEO, Barbie and Chicco Ph), Lota Manalo (mayor, Lobo, Batngas & CEO, Ginga), Rhoda Caliwara (TV host & CEO, Executive Genesis), Pinky Tobiano (CEO, Progressive Laboratories), Mary Lou Estrada (CEO, All Transport Inc.), Rebecca Singson MD (Robotic Gynecologist Surgeon), Abbie Casanova (President, SB Finance), Jenny Lyn Maano (President, SunSmart), Miles Ballestar (CEO, IONTEK), Mary Ann Uyching (Director AXA), Tuesday Angliongto (Exec Director, Pocofino), Marilou Koa (CEO, Max Mara Philippines), Vicky Herrera (Co-founder, She Talks Asia). Also, Leigh Jocson (VP, Jocson College), added immense joy to the celebration by delighting us with two heartwarming songs.
Gender un-equality is still prevalent in some workplaces. But this shouldn’t be a reason to discourage women from achieving the position aimed at work or society. Hence, let it be the drive force of the femininity equipped with a natural inherent warrior strength – to keep going and stand stronger in the face of adversities. To always remind oneself, to never fear when you are doing what is right and just. Let your actions and intentions be your voice.
To my fellow women, embrace your gentle yin nature. Let your softness be your potent tool to capture hearts. Love yourself for who you are without judgement. Be adventurous. Explore your potentials. There is nothing more beautiful than to be bold and show the world your honest truth.
Become a powerhouse of positivity and kindness. Let it be your superpower. Lift up those around you, without forgetting yours. Recognize your worth. Prioritize your wellbeing. For with your overflowing light and faith, anything is possible. And with your immeasurable love, innate compassion and soothing whispers, you could mend any wound, even yours.