To celebrate women’s achievements and elevate Filipino women’s visibility, we are excited to recognize this year’s 100 Most Influential Filipino Women. This is the 2nd year that we’re putting together in one list Filipino women who are adding value to the LinkedIn community and making an impact on their own communities, niches and industries. 

This project is a collaboration between Gina Romero of Connected Women and Virginia Bautista of VB Consulting.

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“Be true to who you are. Not everyone will like you and that’s OK, you can’t please everyone. Do not be afraid to speak up! If there’s no seat at the table, it’s OK, you don’t need a chair, STAND UP and STAND OUT!”
— Mari Pantoja-Smith

These influential women are from various industries including: 

• Education and training
• Professional coaching and consulting
• Healthcare
• Retail and commerce
• Banking and finance
• Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
• Mental health
• Media and entertainment
• Information Technology (IT)
• Marketing and advertising
• Human Resources

Let’s #BreakTheBias by helping elevate the visibility of Filipino women and celebrating their achievements.

 

Get to know the Top 15 Most Influential Filipino Women on LinkedIn:

#1: Doreen Cooper | Professional Speaker, International Trainer & Content Creator

Industry: Education & Training
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About me: 

I am an advocate for and a firm believer in every individual’s capacity to achieve their potential if given a nurturing environment for learning and development. I believe in learning by doing and in being the best I can be so that I can help others be their best.

I also believe in focusing one’s eyes on the goal while using every obstacle as a stepping stone and a challenge to reach their goals. My sense of fulfillment comes from seeing the impact of my work in the lives of others.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

The nature of my work brings me in contact with individuals of various cultures, ethnicities, genders, ages, and interests, as well as of different professional levels from staff to executive level.

My interchange with these individuals from various spheres provide the content for the training work that I do in much the same manner that it is how I am able to enrich their quest for learning and growth.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Remember that you are capable.

You are strong, and you can be what you dream of if you put your heart and your mind into it.

Strive for excellence and do your best.

Be happy in what you do.

You are a woman, and you can do all these – and more

 

#2: Mari Pantoja-Smith | Principal Digital Strategist

Industry: Healthcare
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About me: 

I was born and raised in Manila, Philippines. I certainly did not grow up “rich”, but I would not be who I am today if it wasn’t for my upbringing in the Philippines. Growing up in the 3rd world country taught me the value of family, hard work, ambition, education and enjoying the little things in life. 

At a young age I saw the good, the bad, and the ugly in life. I treasure every part of those life lessons which certainly served as the foundation for how I approach life each day. As you read the nominations, I’ve been labeled “strong, tough”. Very few know my life story, someday, maybe I can share my story so people would fully understand why “I’m strong and tough” LOL, (maybe it was the hustling I had to do growing up) .

I am very passionate about helping people and certainly passionate about healthcare. My healthcare passion has 3 pillars: global health equity since I personally experienced losing my Lola due to healthcare inequity; healthcare technology for it bifurcates towards clinician efficiency and positive patient outcomes; last but not the least, global clinician shortage because as a nurse, I know the consequence of that. 

I came to the US at 15 years of age and the transition was certainly tough for me. I came from a highly populated city (7 million then to be exact) to a town of 14,000 people. It was then that I first learned what diversity meant, it was then that I experienced how to be included but NOT belong. It was very tough. 

In life, it’s what you make of it. “Things happen for a reason”, for every milestone experience/life lesson, good or bad, I took something out of it and turned a negative situation into a positive one somehow, and leveraged that to strengthen me for the next life wave.

Today, I hold a master’s degree in Nursing Education, and I am currently pursuing my Doctorate in Healthcare Science at Eastern Virginia Medical School. I am a volunteer Board Member for the American College of Healthcare Executive (ACHE) of South Florida and this year, I serve as the first Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging chair.

I also volunteer for Maya’s Hope which is an organization that helps impoverished children in the Philippines necessitating medical and surgical needs. However, to date, my biggest accomplishment in life is overcoming obstacles as a very young mom, enforcing the importance of education to my 3 children. I leave you with this: 

Don’t judge people without understanding their background, upbringing, environmental factors for everyone has a reason why they do the things they do.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

This is a great question.  As a woman of color, mother of 3 biracial children and as the first ever DEIB chair for ACHE of South Florida, I use my influence by emphasizing, educating and promoting that each letter in the DEIB means different things and to truly achieve value in DEIB, one cannot exist without the other. 

Remember that D-Diversity is seen, E-Equity is fulfillment, I-Inclusion is felt, B-Belonging is acceptance.

In spirit of #breakthebias, we came up with the acronym BREAK for 2022 ACHE of South Florida DEIB goals:

B – Be the change

R – Realize we all matter

E – Embrace our differences

A – Acknowledge our similarities

K – Keep moving forward….

Here’s a quote for you: “Embrace my uniqueness for I bring a different perspective in every situation.”

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

More than ever, “Be true to who you are. Not everyone will like you and that’s OK, you can’t please everyone. Do not be afraid to speak up! If there’s no seat at the table, it’s OK, you don’t need a chair, STAND UP and STAND OUT! 

If something has never been done before, be the first to do it. As women, society tends to have us settle, hide our emotions and apologize profusely. STOP IT, show emotion, do not apologize and reach for the moon, the worse that could happen is you land among the stars.“

 

#3: Aileen Sinay | Managing Director of Margherita Lotti Inc.

Industry:  Human Resources
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About me: 

Sharing a common passion of helping people with my sons and daughter, we founded MLI to engage in linking people with jobs that are aligned with their own personal passions and aspirations. We are experiencing the fulfillment of turning grief into hope and leading people to better careers extending to their families. Thus, I am dedicating the rest of my career to developing and transitioning careers with our consulting and search firm.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

As a Headhunter, by influencing our clients in hiring candidates with diverse backgrounds, promoting diversity initiatives, and providing equal opportunities and treatment throughout the potential employees’ experiences

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

The challenge in the new normal is about mastering the work-home balance. While at home, we sometimes continue to wonder how we can fit even more activities into our busy work schedule. It’s sometimes the source of stress – we have too much to do and too little time.

If you’re married with children, combining both work and family can be very fulfilling, it can also be quite stressful as you attempt to succeed on all fronts. Perhaps one of the hardest things a working mother has to deal with is guilt. Working takes time away from being with your children, or spending time together in the evening because you must work all day. 

What works well for me is I do plan to spend some time with them each day when I sit down and really listen to their concerns. Scheduling “children’s hour” works as well. It helps if you can lovingly and patiently address their concerns and be with them emotionally and they know it.

The goal is to balance. If you have the support and comfort gained through loving relationships, you are free to achieve the mastery you seek in the workplace and vice-versa. Feeling good about yourself on the job allows you to feel self-confident and able to attend to your family better.

 

#4: Aileen Zalameda | People Management & Development Manager

Industry: Retail & Commerce
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About me: 

Perseverance, patience, knowing what you want, made me the person I am today. 

I graduated as an Industrial Engineer but I have a heart to serve people. Started my career in the academe. Been in the academe for 7 years (my childhood dream becoming a teacher/professor) then while in college aside from being an Engineer I also wanted to be in the field of Human Resources. 

That dream became a reality when I left the academe and joined one of the biggest organization in the Philippines and became a HR Officer (HR-Plans and Programs) without any experience in Human Resources. From then on I was able to climb the ladder of success in the field of Human Resources. 

I joined big and start-ups companies in different industries for the past years. Been doing HR consultancy and headhunting services as well. I became successful in People Management and managing whole Human Resources functions. Served and helped companies in starting up and building their Human Resources Department. 

I do believe that if you want to grow as a person and you want to achieve something, you have to strive harder, be open to new learnings and do not be afraid to explore opportunities. To fuel your passion, enjoy what you are doing and believe that you can do it.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Since I am a Human Resources practitioner, my answer will be based on what we do in our workplace. I can use my influence to create a world of diversity, equitable and inclusive. Let’s start with our workplace. Involving our people in all our company activities from a different social, ethnic backgrounds and of different genders, sexual orientations, etc. 

Let our people join employee engagement activities, create a room of transparency, make them feel that they belong in the organization. Accept our differences and embrace each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Do not judge, accept everyone’s beliefs and values. We are all equal and we are not perfect. All of us have flaws. Let’s use our influence to empower the people around us, believed in what they can do and you can do as a team

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

As a WOMAN we have to speak up, share our thoughts, feelings and beliefs. Do not be afraid, be spontaneous, be confident, empower yourself, show empathy in all you do, accept change because change is everywhere in the new normal. Remember, Women can do what men can do. We are all unique in our own ways, continue challenging ourselves in the new normal and make ourselves successful.

 

#5: Mariel Tablan | Associate Director of AIA PH Academy

Industry: Banking & Finance
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About me: 

I am a firm believer of purpose, passion and life-long learning. Since college, I have always felt that my purpose is to help people. Back then, I wanted to be a clinical psychologist and have my own clinic. 

When I was exposed to coaching, I immediately fell in love with the process. It is amazing how conversations can change a mindset or a perspective and this can create ripple effects on a person’s being – both the coach and the coachee. 

I am passionate about developing people through coaching, training and mentoring – three key ingredients in intentionally unleashing one’s potential. Lifelong learning is a part of my DNA. I have sought guidance from various mentors for 20+ years and they have been so much a part of who I am today – both in life insurance and in professional coaching.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I use it by creating an avenue to have clarity first so that we respond rather than react to any given situation and then inspire courage by listening to people’s perspectives, allowing them to share without editing and then come to a resolution together.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Leverage on your strengths. You don’t need to be anyone else but yourself to influence others to be better. Come from your core and always be led by your purpose. Learn and master your craft by always seeking to be one percent better everyday

 

#6: Penny S. Bongato | Life & Career Coach, Motivational Speaker, Author

Industry: Education & Training
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About me:

My values are respect, integrity, lifelong learning and love for God, country and family. I am passionate about helping people, especially Filipinos reach their highest potential and be the best that they can be. As a Filipino race with our historical culture, we have always been of service having been colonized for so many years. I know that we can excel and be a first world country if we all will it and I want to help teams and individuals be the best not only at work but in their holistic life. I believe in the goodness and greatness of the Filipinos. And I know we can achieve what other countries (first world) have achieved if we set our hearts and minds to it.

I also believe in giving back to others. I have been blessed and it is in giving that we receive. I want to give my knowledge, wisdom and experience to those who need it and want it. It’s time to always share with others.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4fnGmlIwI0&ab_channel=PennyBongato 

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

All of us are one – one human race, no matter what the gender, religion, ethnicity, age. We are one. I have made my posts for everyone to be inspired and be the best version of themselves.

I remember a friend of mine when I was assisting in the Canfield program and he was asked by Jack as a volunteer for an exercise. And when asked what he was “afraid” of, he said, he realized that he was the only “black” in the group. I didn’t see him as “black”. I saw him as a friend and that is what I’d like to share with others. We are one.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Be the best YOU. Not just because we are women we should settle for second best. We can do what men can do (maybe not physically) but in other things – career, relationships, financial, health, we can be equal or even better if we wish to be.

Gone are the days when women stayed home just because they are women. Women now stay home because it’s our personal choice. We, women, are responsible for the outcomes of our lives. Let’s make sure the response to every event provides the outcome that we so desire.

#7: Kurly de Guzman | Global Career & Leadership Coach

Industry: Professional Coaching and Consulting
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About me: 

I love learning, growing, and supporting others in their learning and growth as well. I strive to bring my curiosity with me in whatever I do as this allows me to stay grounded, humble and open to the abundant possibilities and blessings in this world. 

I love deep heartfelt conversations, especially those with my kid. I enjoy exploring ideas and activities, because I know we’re never too old or too young to try and learn something new.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

My work as a Leadership and Career Coach, an HR/OD Consultant and a former corporate employee in a multinational company allowed me to meet and collaborate with people from different walks of life. 

Though I am not perfect, I always strive to create a space for trust and respect in every interaction I have. Though I share my ideas and stories through social media, speaking engagements or trainings, we all know that actions speak louder than words. 

I believe that it is when you treat other people with integrity, kindness, and respect, it creates a ripple effect that encourages them and those around to do the same.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Practice self-compassion and recognize your worth. Women juggle so many roles and serve the family, community and organization so selflessly. We deserve love, care, trust and respect. If we’d like others to realize our worth and what we are capable of, we must be the first to recognize our own worth and value. If we’d like others to care for us and love us, we must learn to love ourselves first.

Let’s start with ourselves. Let’s start by learning to give ourselves respect, to value what we do, to value who we are

 

#8: Michelle Morales | Co-founder of Leading With Success & Senior HR Manager

Industry: Media Content; Training and Consulting
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About me: 

I am a Psychology Major, Certified HR Professional, Master of Industrial Relations, Certified Management Consultant, Certified Six Sigma Yellow Belt and a Registered Psychometrician with extensive experience in the field of Human Resources in various industries.

My passion for HR continues by being a freelance HR consultant where I am assisting companies in setting up their HR system. I am also a freelance Trainer where I consistently facilitate learning sessions to various industries, both in the public and private sectors.

My advocacy of giving back to the community includes being a partner organizer of ROI PH by Dee and Michelle, a community that is supported by ROI Institute that aims to provide free learning sessions on process improvement, HR transformation and ROI. I’m also a core volunteer of various well-known HR community groups in the Philippines namely: HR Group (PHRG), ASEAN HR Leaders Circle Philippines (AHRLCP) and HR CaLaBaRZon.

My life’s mantra is #livelearnshare. I believe that we exist because we have a mission to fulfill; to ourselves, to other people, to our organization, and to our country. 

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

For me, diversity, inclusion, and equity are like dancing. We may have different moves and genres, and yet we all groove to the same tune and rhythm.

My contents may be different from the others and that’s okay because I believe that through my contents at least one person who may have read it may be inspired or influenced. I may have made a difference for a better change for that one person. Thus, I chose to continue providing a variety of #mventure and #livelearnshare contents on LinkedIn and to my other Social Media accounts.

The same thing with the other people’s contents. I have read a lot of content and I agreed with many of them, and not so much for some of them. And that’s also okay as they may have also inspired and influenced others through their content.

Every pitch may vary, every swing, and yet they all were variations of a familiar theme – to share, inspire, empower other people, and #BreakTheBias. And I chose to be part of this theme, and celebrate and value differences.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

We are more than enough…

Our life’s calling is sometimes appalling

We even experienced pun instead of fun

We are more than enough to overcome life’s hiccups

Be it old normal or new normal

Don’t let self-doubt hold us back

We are Filipino women and we are more than enough

 

#9: Charlene Lucas | Registered Psychologist, Trauma Therapist & Organizational Behavior Consultant

Industry: Mental Health
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About me: 

I live to inspire until I retire” a statement that I embody in everything that I do. Life hasn’t been that good to me when I was young, I’ve struggled in all aspects of my life growing up, but somehow my will to survive has always been strong. Back then when I was just starting my career and as I worked my way up to the corporate ladder, I needed to work very hard to the point of sacrificing myself because if I don’t I’ll never escape my situation, and I don’t want my life to remain the same.

I was sleepwalking for almost all of my corporate life, following somebody else’s dream until life finally hit me, and that’s where I started finding my purpose and following my own voice. I am now healing people who were victims of violence and abuse or suffering from trauma, a specialization or work that I’ve never thought before would bring deeper meaning and fulfillment in my life.

May Paraan: Dream job na 17 years in the making 

 

I believe that you can always find meaning behind your suffering and you can turn your pain into a blessing to others, as it is not only in line with what I do as a Trauma Therapist but have also experienced and embodies it in my life as well.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I use my voice to help people understand that all human beings have the capacity to hurt and be hurt. Divisions were made because we are blinded by our limitations and pain; neglecting to see that we are all the same regardless of gender, race, background, and beliefs. 

When we’re able to see the essence of humanity in everyone, we get to understand that our pain and issues were never different from each other; we all wanted to be connected, to belong, to be heard, and to be understood.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

When a woman shows courage, strength, and makes a stand, her influence can empower others to believe, fight, and be inspired.

Never underestimate your power to give hope and to inspire.

 

#10: Wandalyn Tan-Calupig | Founder of Working Moms Academy & Career Coach

Industry: Professional Development and Training
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About me: 

My top core values are family, love, service, and freedom.

I am passionate about training, coaching, solving problems, and finding revenue gaps and opportunities.

I believe that God has a unique purpose for each life and every burden is a blessing in disguise like how my burnout led me to reinvent my career and my life align with my passion, purpose, and family’s needs. 

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I look forward to helping moms get clear about who they are and find confidence in themselves, so they can positively influence others.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

For Filipino women to thrive in the new normal, I learned that it is important to:

1. Ask yourself a lot of questions to get clear about who you are and what you are meant to do (your purpose) so you can sleep in peace and wake up in joy
2. Accept what is happening now, let go of the past and dream big so you can live in peace and with effortless ease
3. Act consistently and persistently so your goals will happen and surrender it all to God who has the perfect timing and version of your dreams and prayers

 

#11: Katherine Castro | Founder of Thrive Global CFO & Outsourced CFO

Industry:Banking & Finance
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About me: 

I am a passionate Filipina finance professional who is always on the lookout to continuous learning, improve the way we do business and inspire many career-shifters and fellow accountants to pursue their dream lives.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

It has always been my goal to use the influence I have to inspire and motivate people to pursue their best selves, even if it means going out of the norm, changing careers unrelated to what you finished in college, starting businesses regardless of background or credentials. We can break the ceiling of age, gender, traditions, stereotypes and standards by leaping out of our comfort zones.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Now is the best time for Filipino women to pursue things that make their life meaningful — whether that means starting a family, being a stay-at-home-mom, juggling a freelance career, climbing the corporate ladder or starting businesses. The new normal has empowered us not by technology, but with the countless opportunities created by our changing world.

 

#12: Jennette Cajucom | CEO Branding Strategist & Brand Storyteller

Industry:Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations
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About me: 

I’ve always believed that storytelling has a powerful way to make the people that you want to help and connect to “experience” who you are, what you’re passionate about, what you believe in and what you stand for – especially in today’s digital world. There is a great need nowadays to be more human as we become even more digital.

My passion for storytelling and helping people tell their story in the most meaningful and authentic way has perhaps been the highlight of what makes me wake up in the morning and what keeps me up at night for the last 5 years or so. There is something about storytelling that connects us to other people, that makes us feel that we are not alone as we struggle in our journey; that there is hope and that our dreams will eventually be realized.

Bringing the element o f storytelling in someone’s CEO brand (or personal brand) with the right frameworks brings out and justifies one’s brand’s identity and core values. I love it when I hear clients share their own raw stories and say, “…and that is probably what made me who I am today” as it sends a hopeful message to a specific target audience that people who are at point A in their journey will eventually reach their point B because of someone else’s story.

AMAzing Story: Jennette Cajucom, Editor And CEO Branding Strategist

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I’ve always been an advocate of promoting humanness, especially in the recent years where everyone is forced to operate more digitally – to be more visible digitally; to connect and build relationships digitally; and to achieve goals digitally.

Believing in the power of our humanness in a lot of ways encompasses diversity, equality and inclusivity. To be able to promote humanness by sharing stories of other people and by providing a platform (through my podcast and writing) where they can share their stories – how they have struggled, how they have been discriminated against, how they have allowed themselves to be vulnerable, and how they have overcome all of those hurdles – leaves a meaningful digital footprint that sends the message to those starting in their journey that “there is hope” (for a better world) because of the power of these people’s stories.

While I know I can somehow be a voice for the voiceless and be able to use my influence, I see more power in setting the stage (in my own little way) for voices to be heard.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

There is a popular quote that says you have to act like a lady and think like a man to survive and be a boss.

I must say that a woman’s superpower is already in her DNA – being nurturing, giving and caring. Top that with the unwavering resilience that’s innate in every Filipino woman. all these fuel her to give value to the people around her and fulfill her own dreams.

So I say, just unleash those superpowers and TELL YOUR STORY if you want to thrive in this new normal. The technical side of things can be easily learned.

 

#13: Grace Kagahastian | Executive Coach & Entrepreneur

Industry: Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
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About me: 

I am an HR Professional turned a full time Professional Organizational Coach and my mission is to empower leaders to their untapped potential and to offer clarity on demand.

Aside from that, I also enjoy mentoring coaches from around the globe and multiply my impact ten times more. I also love partnering with start-ups to build their brand through their people and see where they can harness their power.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I dream to be a light for others and build a community of self-made leaders to be more mindful and intentional while pursuing their aspirations

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Dress up, show up. Find your niche and do it scared.

 

#14: Mae Cuison | Podcast Producer & Manager

Industry: Podcast Industry
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About me: 

The podcasting landscape in the Philippines is massively growing. In fact, Spotify, a podcasting giant is tapping local content creators after seeing the increase in demand. There’s power in podcasting! I want to be part of it.

Podcasting turned my life around and I can’t wait for it to transform people’s lives, too. From a teenager suffering from inferiority complex, extremely afraid of showing up and speaking up to being a podcast producer/host enjoying the benefits of meeting C-Level executives and business owners and helping them communicate their message and change the world.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

One of the goals of podcasting is to make people’s voices be heard. For great messages to be shared. You never know how telling your story or getting heard can create an impact. Podcasting is a great tool to promote diversity, equity and inclusivity.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Be laser-focused on your goals. Distractions are everywhere. You are your greatest cheerleader. No matter how many rejections you get, never never give up! Don’t forget to celebrate small wins, be grateful and live in the moment.

You have your own momentum. Do not compare yourself to others. You don’t really fail, you learn. Greatness doesn’t happen all at once. One step at a time. Let the Lord lead you and guide you in the way you should go.

 

#15: Roselle Munsayac | Vice President & Author

Industry: Banking & Finance
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About me: 

I consider myself a spiritual human being. To be in this state of love and peace is one of the best blessings I have come to know and enjoy. I praise God for letting me reach this level of consciousness. To understand that the only way to achieve bliss is to start from ourselves, take the power from the mind, and understand that living life fully is realized by accepting and understanding life as it happens, never judging or identifying anything as good or bad, but just part of aliveness. 

I am a women empowerment and mental health advocate, I compose poems to inspire and encourage women to have faith in themselves, muster that confidence to be the best and live the lives of their dreams. I am also an author of my very first eBook about love.. where I discussed ways to achieve true unconditional love. I post a series of poems in LinkedIn, the latest of which that I started in January 2022 is about soul searching.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I always said, if I can touch even one soul, then I would have lived my purpose. Everyone has the ability to influence others through his or her words so I choose what I say, write or think from a clear and positive mind, in the realm of the only thing that should guide us which is love. 

When I inspire others to live from the perspective of love for all, an unbreakable connection is formed, making love the only norm,. And when that happens, we will embrace diversity, that however distinct we are as individuals, no race nor color nor religion nor age can 

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

To always use their power of presence: to know that we can turn our lives around by managing our thoughts; by choosing those we allow to enter our being and converting negatives to positive ones. Choosing only those that will serve our purpose to integrate such into our emotions, actions and see how it changes our mood, our day and ultimately our lives. 

This will make women survive and thrive in the new normal, because whatever circumstances they face, they can handle the best way, because they know they have the power.

Here’s the complete list of the 100 Most Influential Filipino women 2022 (in alphabetical order): 

 

Ace Gapuz 

Industry: Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations
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About me: 

I am a go-getter, workaholic, entrepreneurial, and goal-driven individual. I believe that all people feel your energy, which is why I always do my best to give off good vibes and good energies only — this is what a lot of people remember about me. I practice these core values in everything I do: excellence, love for work, professionalism, grit, and amor (love for people).

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

It starts with genuine love and care for other people. Being in a position of influence as the chief executive of my company, it’s imperative for me create an environment that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive.

First and foremost, I’d like to emphasize that our current team is an all-female team. We also have a 10,000-strong influencer community that is mostly female. Regardless, I also believe that we have created a very accepting and inclusive environment, both online and offline, that fosters collaborations among our community of creators and influencers.

As a leader, I believe we have done this just through genuine love and care. People will always remember how you make them feel.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

I have to say excelling and thriving whichever environment you’re placed in has a lot to do with self-awareness, self-care, and self-love. It’s important to put yourself first, because at the end of the day, I do believe you cannot pour from an empty cup. As for me, thriving means bringing more value to the people around me, and I do that by protecting my peace and making sure my cup is always full

 

Alyzza Rica Pera 

Industry:Education & Training
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About me: 

My personal mission will still be the same:

I wanted to add value and change the world ONE PARTICIPANT AT A TIME. It shows that with the line of work that I decided to take, which is the field of learning and development.

I am fond of learning and growth. I always believe that there’s no finish line or end game when it comes to learning

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

For me, I can use my influence in LinkedIn by posting very relatable and relevant contents regardless of gender, status in life, age, etc. I will help promote inclusivity, equality and diversity most especially in the workplace.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

If you have a goal in life, FOCUS ON IT. Visualize it like it’s your own reality.

And then WORK REALLY HARD FOR IT. HUSTLE. PERSEVERE. DO NOT GIVE UP. Never ever look back to the doubters and naysayers — they are just noise along the way to your success.

DECIDE. Be very willing to let go of the weight on your shoulders. If you know that it hinders your growth, just let it go. You have to stand up by your own decisions — even if it’s difficult; most especially when it is.

Most importantly, FACE YOUR FEARS. Do not be afraid. It will delay you. Continue your faith in God. Always believe in yourself, and trust the people who genuinely support you.

 

Anda Goseco, ICF-PCC

Industry: Coaching and Training
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About me: 

Growth is stretching our boundaries. It takes courage to be at the edge of our comfort zone. We constantly have to ask ourselves what we can learn, unlearn and relearn to be better leaders. The most difficult part, but most crucial to growth, is what we need to unlearn.

I learned about growth through challenges in life and playing sports. When we face reality and hard truths, we are able to make better decisions. I use this philosophy when I coach leaders and teams. I support them by helping them use their courage and commitment to become a better person every day. When they are more deliberate and reflective with their actions, they are aware of the impact they have on the people and environment

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I have always believed that everyone needs to be treated with love and respect. Everyone is equal and we all have something valuable to contribute.

I coach leaders to help them see that being a leader is all about people. Their role is to create a positive influence and help others grow. Leadership is not only thinking about the numbers but also the human side of the business. I help leaders create a safe environment where there is trust, understanding and collaboration.

During my team coaching sessions, I help members of the team create better dynamics with the people they interact with. I help them listen to what other people need and find ways to be able to help others. They are able to “take one for the team” and focus on what will benefit everyone. I also help them know how to maximize their unique strengths to build relationships and achieve goals.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

We have to be clear on our goals and how we want to live life. It is always a question of what we are optimizing for. Where do we want to be in the next 5 to 10 years? We need a blueprint to guide us especially when we lose our way.

We can be very busy with the many roles that we have – wife, mother, sister, friend, co-worker. As a woman, we feel responsible and we will try to do our best in every role. When we start feeling stretched and tired, it can also lead to burnout. What we need to do is to be kind to ourselves and give space to breathe. 

We need to ask ourselves more often “What do I need today”? Do not forget yourself and who you are. When we love ourselves, we have more to give to others.

We have to be deliberate and intentional on how we want to live our life everyday. Let’s say no when it is not helping us and yes the choices that lead us to where we want to be

 

Anna Patricia R. Lopez

Industry: Consumer Electronics
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About me: 

I started my career as a headhunter, this made me really passionate about doing recruitment. As a headhunter, there’s fewer restrictions on doing end-to-end to recruitment, here I can also help more people across various roles, industries, and nationalities. On the side, I have a mini food blog – @gooeydrippy. I use my sweet tooth in helping local startup stores in promoting their brand. Doing small acts of kindness is pretty much fulfilling.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

For LinkedIn, it’s very important to advocate both sides of the relationship. For example, as an HR professional, I use this platform to cement the concept that not only the recruiters are at fault when the recruitment process fails, sometimes, the applicants are responsible and or the company. People need to understand well the sides and their contributions.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

No one needs anyone’s permission to succeed. Just do your job, and soar high!

 

Annaliza Laxamana

Industry: Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations
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About me: 

I see myself as a continuously growing person, someone who, even after years in the industry, is still hungry for learning and self-discovery.

Mindfulness is a value I treasure the most. Every day, I take a few minutes off of work and social media to breathe in and absorb the now. To be fully present in mind, heart and body grounds me and helps me make wise and right decisions, be it in business or at home. It heals me from unpleasant experiences and compels me to live positively.

Because of this, helping others heal has naturally become my passion, too. I introduced Art4Healing to my community to encourage others in overcoming pain and trauma through visual art expression.

Your Impact Matters is my personal advocacy project focusing on leadership and community influence. My experiences as an entrepreneur, artist, and as a wife and a mother taught me that in order to thrive and be more fulfilled in life, healing yourself is a must.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

By helping make quality education more available, especially in rural and tribal areas. If one would ponder on the root of inequality and the lack of inclusivity, especially in the corporate world, it would be none other than the limited access to standard higher education, hindering a young person’s pursuit of his/her full potential. To eliminate this, it’s not enough that our young people dream to come to the city to study. Quality education must come to the provinces and the farthest communities.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

That the new normal is not a hindrance to your dreams, but a new opportunity to show how adaptive and resilient you can be. That you are able to not only go along with the changes in the world, but also lead it. That you can make things happen, because you are smart and strong, and you have a community of women rallying for you and with you.

 

Annette G. Tayao

Industry: Real Estate
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About me: 

The number one thing that defines me is that I am a single mom to a wonderful 5-year-old girl named Lexie. She inspires me to be the best version of myself every day.

With Lexie often being my source of inspiration, one lesson that I teach her, and that I try to teach others, is to always stand up for what we believe in and to go for what we want. Integrity is at the top of all my values, and so I make it a point to be firm with what I believe in and encourage others to do the same.

Of course knowing what you want and what you believe in is good. However, it’s also important to keep an open mind, and be open for feedback which is a great avenue to learn and grow. Getting other people’s feedback is what allows us to grow as people, and yes, I even accept feedback from my daughter. Her candidness and radical candor is a reality check that I welcome and appreciate.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I truly believe that LinkedIn was made to foster a world that is diverse, equitable and inclusive. The platform is full of wonderful people with wonderful stories and insights. All you have to do is to keep an open mind and challenge others to do the same and you will flourish on this platform. 

That’s what I do at least. I share my opinions and experiences and have an open mind to the opinions of others. We often gravitate towards our own beliefs and understanding of things, but being inclusive, opening our minds to the opinions and beliefs of others is a step towards a more inclusive world.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

The new normal has brought many and new challenges in the professional landscape. However, no matter what the landscape is, if you don’t know where you’re going, if you don’t know your destination, you are simply lost. So my advice to Filipino women who wish to thrive in this new normal, is to be clear with what you want, and what your beliefs are.

Be clear with what you want. Have a target, a goal, something to aim for, and then pursue it. Don’t let the obstacles and the challenges ahead stop you. If it’s what you want and you know it’s good for you, then go for it. If you need to ask for it, ask for it. If you need to work for it, work for it. What’s the worst that could happen? We get turned down or people say no? A 1% chance is better than 0%.

Be clear with your beliefs. It is not enough to know what you want, you must also know yourself. Establish your beliefs and be firm with it. This goes hand in hand with knowing what you want. Do not sacrifice what you believe in just to get what you want. Integrity is one of the keys to success. If you know what you want and you’re firm with what you believe in, the obstacles and challenges won’t matter. 

 

Belle Baldoza

Industry: Media & Entertainment
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About me: 

As a creative brand storyteller, I am driven by a passion for developing compelling narratives and impactful campaigns for brands that are redefining consumer behavior and trends in popular culture.

With an entrepreneurial spirit, I work best when building from day one. I specialize in developing and leading impactful multi-market integrated Communications campaigns anchored on consumer insights, with an objective to nurture brand affinity through stories that create conversation across paid, owned and earned channels. I have a deep understanding of the roles that social media and branded content play in elevating storytelling efforts, complemented by my strengths in strategic planning and project/event management

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I find every opportunity to promote diversity of perspectives and encourage embracing a global mindset, with an understanding of how one’s cultural reality shapes his or her own identity – whether through the teams I work with or through the different platforms where I could exercise a degree of influence. I believe that it’s important to not only ensure diversity, but it is even more important to be truly inclusive, with a recognition of each individual on a truly human level

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Find and embrace your own ‘Why Not?’

The pandemic which has disrupted the world as we knew it has taught us the importance of living life urgently – and truly living your life also means embracing your own truths. And sometimes, you can only find these truths when you venture out of your comfort zone or make that pivot. Get comfortable with charting the uncharted. You’d be surprised with what you’ll discover about yourself!

 

Bim Gutierrez

Industry: Healthcare
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About me: 

I am a digital leader, builder and strategist.

Throughout my career I have worked for top global companies in various industries, assuming leadership positions in innovation, product development, sales and marketing. Gaining this diverse experience, I take a multi-disciplinary and integrative approach in getting things done.

Questioning the status quo since 👧🏻 age 5, my vision has always been beyond the 📦 and my journey, an endless pursuit of uncharted territories. As an innovator I take pride in building solutions that reimagine what your business could be, marrying technology, design and human aspirations.

I have a consistent track record of delivering outcomes that accelerate business performance, pioneering 🥇award-winning platforms, and effectively inspiring cross-functional teams to spark change in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

👩🏻‍🌾 part-time gardener 🌸

👩🏻‍🎨 𝔀𝓪𝓷𝓷𝓪𝓫𝓮 𝓹𝓪𝓲𝓷𝓽𝓮𝓻 🎨

👊🏼 amateur boxer 🥊

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I  make it a point to lift other women up in corporate. The truth is, there are women who see you as competition and would rather see you fail. I have experienced this firsthand from older women.

So I do the opposite, there is more than enough space for women in the boardroom.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Learn new skills. Use this time to upgrade your knowledge on digital, whether you are in sales, marketing or other functions.

 

Bonnie Factor

Industry: Education & Training
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About me: 

My Life Manifesto:

Laughter is my currency.

Peace of mind is my love & happiness.

Self-compassion is my growth path.

I value radical acceptance, honesty, & transparency

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I share whatever knowledge I have.

I build in public.

This way people know how it is to be an entrepreneur and would be inspired to also share their journey in public

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Your most precious resource is TIME, guard and protect it with all you have.

Prioritize only projects and tasks that would give you the results that would contribute to your end goals.

 

Camille Madriñal

Industry: HR & Recruitment, Community & Social Services
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About me: 

I do believe that spreading kindness in all forms will benefit you in your professional and personal life. How you interact with others regardless of the position, how you extend help to those you are in need and how you inspire others to do the same. 

In my 10+ years in the industry, I focus on hiring fresh graduates and career shifters. Mostly are those who failed with other companies due to lack of experience. Being inexperienced is not a major factor but rather an opportunity for us to shape and train them to an expert in Recruitment. The homegrown managers, supervisors, and leads in our team right now are the same set of freshers we hired years back.

In Nezda Serves, we want to inspire others to give back to the community. Reminding everyone that we don’t need to be a politician or to be a well-known personality to serve people.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

As part of the Recruitment industry, this is one thing that we should really look into. We can always use our influence by not being biased in our interviews and by giving chance to everyone regardless of their gender, race, and background. We can create a healthy work environment by encouraging diversity in the workplace

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

We should collaborate and participate to ensure that women will not be left behind in the pursuit of change. Together, Let’s #BreakTheBias!

 

Carla Villanueva Manas

Industry: Coaching and Coach Training
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About me: 

I’m a Professional Certified Coach, Executive Coach Master Trainer, Senior Faculty for Center for Executive Coaching and CEO and founder of Coaching for Exponential Leadership ( COEXL).

I am passionate about supporting leaders and coaches to create a roadmap to achieve their next level of success, challenge their limits and expand their range of possibilities to attain transformative impact and exponential growth.

As a champion of human potential, I find fulfillment in helping people maximize their potential, challenge their limits, and go beyond what they think is possible.

My passion for leadership development and building resilience provides the fuel to develop a growth mindset in my clients that sees adversity as an opportunity to pivot in new directions and turns obstacles into opportunities.

My professional mission is to apply over 30 years of corporate experience, coaching and consultancy experience to empower leaders and coaches to drive innovation, performance and exponential growth so they can make a lasting impact on the individuals and community they serve. I focus on proven methodologies and solutions that result in measurable breakthroughs to bring about positive change.

I take pride in bettering myself to offer more effective resources for those I work alongside. Throughout the years, I have been honored with several accolades for my work in the coaching industry. In 2021, I was awarded the Best Executive Coach honor and featured in NYC Journal as one of the top 30 coaches in 2021. I am also an Executive Coach Master Trainer, a Global Leadership & Success Coach among others. Everything I do to advance my own wealth of knowledge is to elevate others so that they can be at their best.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

As a woman, I am well aware of the challenges of finding a seat in the table where big decisions are made. So in my coaching and training that I do and the way I run my business, I help others not only get a seat at that table, but also create their own table.

In my talks, posts, trainings and in our coaching community, we promote a culture that uplifts and elevates each other regardless of gender, race, religion, ethnicity, etc.

The community we have in my business fosters diverse thinking, where every voice is heard, welcome, and respected. I find that having such diverse voices is helpful in generating ideas and producing constructive feedback while at the same time creating an environment where everyone feels relevant and part of a shared mission

We can solve many more problems if the people making those decisions come from varying background and points of view. It might sound trite, but I sincerely believe that we can achieve more if we lift each other in community instead of taking each other down in competition. And we practice this not just in the stories we tell but in how we show up and live our lives.

I also use my influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive by providing opportunities to co-uplift others in the advocacy projects I have founded:

 

• Alay Sa Pinoy Frontliners, an advocacy to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to healthcare workers who are treating COVID-19 patients. In the spirit of “Alay” (the Filipino word for “Offering”) we want to support the very people who selflessly put themselves in harm’s way to care for those stricken with this deadly virus.
• Covid Warriors- A support community for COVID Positive warriors who are fighting with their hearts, using faith and hope as their weapons.
• Next Step, a non -profit educational initiative for Filipino professionals looking to pivot careers or start a new business during the pandemic.
• We provide free practical and actionable tips and solutions to help them move forward one step at a time.
• CoachesCare – a community of Coaches who Advocate resilience and Empathy. We provide free coaching to sectors most in need such as medical frontliners, educators, students among others. We aim to help preserve and strengthen their wellbeing via stress management, resilience building and coping strategies via coaching.

 

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

I think the key to thrive anywhere is to Master your Mindset. Our Mindset is so powerful that it controls not just our thoughts but the way we act and react. It can propel you to success or sabotage your success. Mastering your Mindset is taking 100% responsibility for your life. We can’t always control what happens but we can control how we react to it.

Thoughts become things. By taking ownership and filtering our thoughts, we can create different results.

It’s not just an attitude. It means quieting the inner critic that sows doubt, forging ahead despite the fear, believing that you are capable, setting a goal, and taking intentional action to achieve the success you deserve.

If you believe that something is possible, you find opportunities. And if you believe the opposite, then you find excuses. Someone with a fixed mindset will say I can’t. The one with a growth mindset will say ” I can find another way’

You can have your heart set on a dream or a goal, but success is only possible if you also set your mind to it and take intentional steps towards it.

 

Carla Perlas

Industry: Technology
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About me: 

I have 19 years of experience in the publishing, tech, and startup scene, and have dedicated most of my career in creating content and building communities catering to women and parents. I now lead communications at The Parent Inc., where I started as the content head of its flagship brand, theAsianparent, in the Philippines and moved up to leading the entire content team across the Asia-Pacific region. I’ve been associated with the company for eight years now, as I believe in its mission to help parents have healthy pregnancies and raise healthy families – and I’m proud to have spearheaded the creation and implementation of the company’s CSR platform to support its mission. 

Mothers are undervalued members of society and I’m saddened that they are still the default caregivers of children. There’s nothing wrong with prioritizing kids, but I believe in prioritizing a mother’s self-worth as led by her own choices and in carving her own path and making a positive impact on society without the external pressures dictating what her worth and contributions should be. 

I’m a mom of two daughters. I recently started dabbling in polymer clay jewelry as a way to decompress and teach myself something new that brings me joy.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I’m a big proponent of not only women empowerment, but mothers’ empowerment. I use my influence to celebrate and tell the stories of inspiring mom leaders, to promote opportunities for mothers to learn and to be heard, to be real and share what it’s like to be working mother – the joys, the pains, the worries, and how to cope when challenges that have to do with work and home pile on top of each other.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Be kind to yourself, and be honest with yourself. Know your strengths and your limitations. For the latter, surround yourself with people who inspire you, encourage you, will push you out of your comfort zone, but will also respect and support you in your need for mental space and emotional security. Find your personal tribe who will help see you through to your success.

 

Carmina Bayombong

Industry: Banking & Finance
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About me: 

Similar to the students that we serve, I get up and do this work every day to pursue a dream. My aspiration in life is to fix one seemingly unsolvable problem in society. I guess that’s my dream because it’s working on something that’s going to last beyond my lifetime. There are so many students who are poor in resources now but are rich in ambition for tomorrow. They just need financial resources and guidance to achieve their full potential. 

When we started solving this problem, my co-founders and I kept asking ourselves: “How come no one has succeeded in doing student loans to underprivileged students at scale?” We found out that around the world- most had concluded that students from disadvantaged backgrounds were not creditworthy- because they were young, poor, and without collateral. But we soon discovered that there existed no legitimate evidence of this claim. 

So we set out to prove the opposite: That disadvantaged students are creditworthy and that their potential was worth investing in. I’m so proud of our students for achieving their dreams, lifting up their families, and for being the soul of our mission: To prove to the world that when we invest in young people’s potential, we empower entire families out of poverty — and at scale, we empower entire nations towards progress.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

We’ve achieved significant progress in the change we’re trying to create, which is to reduce young people’s barriers towards success. However, to get to the next stage, we need to drastically elevate the awareness and participation of the public in our advocacy. Upon studying systemic change, one of my takeaways is that communications and public relations is a critical component. Without this, we may be unable to change the status quo.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Everything worthwhile comes with a price and a whole lot of pain. The way to win is to make the sacrifices mean something and to channel pain into something positive.

When we decide to pursue our dreams, our lives change forever. Surround yourself with people who are productive for your mission. There are a lot of well meaning people who exacerbate your feeling of not being good enough. My advice is to lose them.

 

Casey Ordoña

Industry: Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations
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About me: 

I have been working abroad for many years and have recently came back to the Philippines. The pandemic has truly brought light to what matters: family and loved ones. While becoming a digital nomad is still in the plan, I count each day as a blessing because we are closer than ever.

Whenever possible, I share my knowledge through content creation: writing articles, sharing tips on youtube, attending speaking events, conducting trainings and seminars.

My core belief is “growth”. Growth is synonymous to improvement and therefore, you will hear me saying this a lot: What you can measure, you can manage, and what you can manage – you can IMPROVE.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

My mantra is to lead by action. I have worked with agencies with teams and clients that often comprise different nationalities, different beliefs, Always seek genuine connection beyond confounding factors like gender, skin color, religion, socio-economic class, and so on. The key is to be genuine in knowing about their background. Pro tip: Listen more than you speak; start with food.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Stay educated. Always adapt. Improvise. EVOLVE. Digitization has abolished so many barriers and it created more opportunities to work remotely. One can easily switch careers, work commute from across the globe, network, and acquire new skill sets (start with this!). Create an online business. Whatever you do, just start… then fail hard and fast, then start (a new one) again – failure and discipline can take you to places motivation can’t.

Now is the best time to be a Filipino woman in the New Normal – go and make the best out of it!

 

Cheri Lynne E. Venegas

Industry:Resume Writing and LinkedIn Optimization
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About me: 

I am a seasoned marketing and sales professional that have helped brands such as Philips, Chippy, Mang Juan, Selecta Milk, Fiesta, and Cloud 9 succeed in the market. 

From marketing products, I now market jobseekers and entrepreneurs, making sure that each individual’s unique selling proposition is clearly communicated to the target market. 

As Resume Writing Director, I use my marketing perspective to ensure jobseekers stand out among a crowd of qualified applicants and get hired for the jobs they desire. I help those who have difficulty getting interviews, struggle to get themselves promoted, are changing careers, or have taken a long break from work.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

The thing I love most about my job is that it’s main purpose is to lift people up. By highlighting people’s strengths in their resume and LinkedIn profile, I not only increase their chances of landing a job, I also make them feel more confident about themselves. I learned early on that this confidence plays a significant role in the job-seeking journey. Job seeking (especially when a person has just lost his job, transitioning from a break, shifting to another industry, or unhappy with his current situation) is oftentimes a scary endeavor. 

I use LinkedIn to help ease this pain. When people share their job-seeking journey, career milestones, and reach out for help on LinkedIn, they make it possible for me to witness a small portion of their life. It allows me to cheer them on, give encouragement, and even help! I am able to spread some much-needed positivity… and honestly, I think it affects me more than anyone else! 🙂 “

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Tip #1: Don’t be afraid to try something new. 

Tip #2: You don’t need to know everything before diving into it. Dive into whatever you want to do, and you’ll learn quickly along the way.

My biggest fear when I let go of my corporate job was I was also going to let go of my security, aka my salary (that will surely come every 15th and 30th), health insurance, company car, the list goes on, and on. 

No one grows up thinking that they want to be a resume writer or digital marketer or any other new profession that suddenly popped out in recent years… and yet here we are, and we’re here to stay. And, when you work smart, the “security” that people like me were so afraid of letting go of soon follows.

 

Cherrie Atilano

Industry: Agriculture
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About me: 

I am a farmer, an agri-scientist and agri-economist, food systems champion, staunch advocate of sustainability towards our people and planet.

I started teaching farmers at the age of 12 years old as I grew up in a sugarcane farm in Negros. A simple book of growing vegetables and doing composting inspired me to pursue a lifelong calling that gives me hope to wake up more alive everyday.

It was tough growing up since my mom is a single mother taking care of 5 children. I needed to find my way out of my humble beginnings , find strength in that to build my inner resilience, be resourceful yet beyond grateful all the time for all the blessings I received along the way that made me finish my university as a scholar and a working student.

My mom once told me, “I don’t want you to be successful, I want you to be significant and relevant. I want you to learn to connect the shortest distance in life – the distance between your brain and your heart.” This statement is a reminder to me everyday to do things with great intentionality, focus on transformational work not just transactional and live life to the fullest where dreaming is not only for yourself but by bringing, empowering and uplifting others too.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Offline, I do work on the ground. I like it when I do high level stuff I also get to work closely with the farmers. I am like a happy child when I am on the farm developing new technologies for the farmers to adopt, training women and youth.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

To all the Filipino women, decide what kind of life you want to live to thrive well in the new normal. Take a pause to reflect on what matters the most. It is necessary to do a lot of self love, as living is more important than existing. 

When you have found clarity in that, make it as your personal mission while honing your personality towards it, finding your passion that inspires you to wake up daily with great hope in your heart and a purpose that keeps you more alive every second you breathe. Don’t forget to take good care of yourself.

 

Cielo Marte Presas

Industry: Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
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About me: 

I am from a conservative family and I am a self-confessed maverick in my early years. Went to Catholic schools/universities that have more or less tamed me. 🙂 Life has been kind, giving me two children who are both learning to be a better version of their mom.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I write from experience and I hope my stories helped people understand themselves better, regardless of their gender, race and social status. We may be different in more than one ways but we are of the make.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Keep the faith, pray for guidance , work your best and be the best proud PINAY in this time of change. Don’t wait for others, do it yourself.

 

Cleo Valeroso

Industry: Information Technology
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About me: 

I’ve been an HR professional for nearly 20 years and am motivated every day by the people around me. I’m passionate about growing the business through people, because people are the core of the company and integral to its success. I’m also passionate about building and driving strategies to foster and nurture a company culture inspired by our diverse experiences and backgrounds.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Every organization is different, so you have to first identify not only their needs but also any barriers that exist. I work across the entire organization, not just the leadership team, to help team members understand how embracing diverse, equitable, and inclusive principles not only creates a better work environment but also drives the business forward across all areas such as development, revenue generation, and hiring. This motivates the leadership team to implement DE&I initiatives and measure outcomes.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

My best advice to help women thrive today is to first be clear around what you’re try to attain. Define your specific goal and then focus on this outcome so you’ll be less likely to be sidetracked by other pressures and able to work consistently toward this end.

 

Connie Barrientos-Carey

Industry: Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
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About me: 

I love social enterprise and I am a total sponge for learning. I enjoy mentoring people, because it’s both an honor and a privilege.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Promote and fund social enterprises as I have always done and break glass ceilings and flip tables, so I can bring in more women to lean in.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

You have no time to feel sorry for yourself. Pick yourself up and write your own story.

 

Cristina Calaguian

Industry: Community & Social Services
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About me: 

I am passionate about Community Economic Development. A strong believer of volunteerism. Promote peace through diversity and inclusion.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Been invited to a lot of speaking engagements on Women Empowerment. Promote campaigns on diversity by creating a page where women’s opinions and voices are heard. I give training, support and empower people with disability in career management and development.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Nothing is impossible, the new normal opens a lot of opportunities. To find opportunities to meet in live settings from mixed backgrounds so they don’t lose their interpersonal skills. Be very up to speed with professional remote communication/ digital platforms to present themselves as professionally as possible. 

For managers and leaders, to create a schedule of formal and informal communication opportunities with every team member individually and collectively. Similarly, create a private schedule to reach formally and/ or informally on a regular basis with their direct managers and peers. 

Take the opportunity to seek out, review and share interesting informative and relevant articles, papers, presentations from outside the organization with colleagues and your wider connections (FWN) Last but not least, assess the validity and value of future live meetings and travel to ensure that an online option will not be as or more effective for the organization.

 

Cybill Getgood

Industry:Staffing & Recruiting/ Recruitment Process Outsourcing
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About me: 

I am a mother of 4 and a serial entrepreneur. I started business when I was 17 when I was recruited to be a recruiter. Since then, I have grown from being a recruiter / virtual assistant to being a manager, to becoming an operator, to becoming an M&A broker and to now being a business owner of TeamRecruit. 

My passion has always been using my experience to uplift others. I grew up from an average family from the small city town of Bacolod City. I have always dreamt big and knew I would be a business leader one day. 

Today I lead a large workforce with a true people-focused lens constantly looking at the potential of each individual employee and igniting the drive and fire within them. I’m proud to say I have achieved my life’s goal which is to be a multiplier, a leader who brings out the best in people.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

As a people-focused leader, I use LinkedIn to talk about my leadership and how I aspire to positively change the lives of my workforce. 

As a community builder, I own a leadership group with more than 3000 members where we constantly build content around People-focused Leadership! LinkedIn is also where I first started talking to my husband, it’s where our love story started! “

As a people-focused leader, I strongly hinge on the belief that all people should feel belonging and have equal rights to opportunity. As a leader, I enter hiring decisions setting aside any bias and I hire people for attitude, aptitude and culture fit, completely setting aside any age, gender, and racial bias. I proudly support religious groups, the LGBTQ community, and stay respectful of other cultures in our organization! 

Belongingness is the foundation of human need and nature. Knowing this has shaped my leadership and has built in me strong principles of collaboration, inclusivity and collectivism. In meetings, I let everyone speak. 

In strategy sessions, no matter your rank in the business, your idea needs to be heard. In mentorship, no matter who you are in our company, you get a chance to have  a call with me. I often hear our people say, I have never met a VP who gives me her time of the day and truly cares for me as an individual. 

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Ooohhhh this is one loaded answer! 

I have to say, the Filipino woman is a trailblazer and a warrior by default. We were raised to be superwomen just like Gal Gadot with the Amazons in Wonderwoman the movie! We need to open our eyes to that fact and see our worth is the first thing! 

Filipinas are innately talented to compete in the world market. I think we should look at beyond what we can do locally and use the international market as the benchmark for aspiration and success. Look beyond borders and expand your reach!

To thrive in the new normal, Filipino women need to not just grow deeper in an area of knowledge but also broaden their skillsets.

Being successful today requires an equilibrium of depth and breadth of expertise. All of this is achievable on LInkedIn. 

I use LinkedIn to build my profile and start appreciating my experience and worth. I also utilize it to look at other countries and see how I compare in the world market. Lastly, I use LinkedIn Learning to sharpen my skills daily and improve my expertise one skillset at a time. 

 

Danica Octa

Industry: Education & Training
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About me: 

My mission is to help people achieve a better quality of life in this world and I do this through career coaching and talent solutions. When the pandemic expedited the world’s adoption of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, many talents fear for their future. 

Jobs are now seen as scarce, replaced by technology, and completely eliminated. Our company dedicates itself to be a team of experts that shifts mindsets, eliminates limiting beliefs, and rewires perspectives for a better future. The world is problematic as it is, it’s time we taught people how to develop, not only for their sake, but also for our own.

I believe in the power of growth mindset, empathy, and the law of attraction, among other magical things that the world has to offer to great people. I recognize that people can get anything they can ever dream of if they just believe. How many times have we seen new inventions and change happen simply because of a belief of the impossible? I truly see that it is a life anyone can achieve.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

By using my voice to talk to people that only people like me have access to. I recognize my privilege and it is up to me to extend this to people who need it.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Believe. All the great things in life start when you believe. You have to start it in yourself so that you can influence others to believe in themselves too. The more people believe in themselves, the bigger the impact and change we can bring to our world resulting in a sustainable environment and a prosperous life.

 

Delby Bragais 

Industry: Education & Training
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About me: 

I help executives, entrepreneurs and experts level up their professional image, leadership presence and personal brand to attract opportunities, grow their careers and business.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I create content inspiring Women towards finding work they love where they can experience purpose, passion and prosperity.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

We all have the Power to Reinvent ourselves to be the person we want to be!

 

Dolly de los Reyes

Industry: Education & Training
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About me: 

First, I am GOD’s daughter, who has fallen flat on the ground for so many times due to her disobedience and lack of trust. It took me years of rising and falling before I have finally surrendered my life to Him. Everything I do is about Him.

At this point in my life, all I want is for my calling and passion to align. It is one thing to talk about GOD, but it is also another thing to really put yourself out there to serve and make a difference in the life of those around you. I do this as a teacher. Every single day, I pray to be able to impart something that my students would carry with them as they tread their own path.

Another part of me wishes to reach out to more people. There were opportunities in the past where I spoke in front of individuals, students and professionals alike, to talk about topics ranging from teaching methodologies to life’s lessons. Being a part of Toastmasters International has even opened more doors of connecting and serving with like-minded leaders.

In summary, I love to serve whether it be in and through my current role as an educator or maybe outside the box that the pandemic has forced us to embrace.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

LinkedIn is filled with value posts from millions of people around the world. It has, as a matter of fact, helped improve millions of lives, including mine. A simple reminder could bring so much value to a person in another part of the world.

However, no community is too big for a person who desires to share a message of hope and love. My posts, along with the rest, could serve as a catalyst for change in somebody else’s life.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Know your truth, and stick to it. We are an empowered generation, so much so that we have everything we need at our fingertips. Find that quiet time, and come face to face with your fears. 

Listen to the voice of GOD in your heart. He would tell you that life is so much more than finding ways to put food on the table. The moment you understand this deeply is the moment you will tell the world “I AM READY TO LIVE A LIFE OF SIGNIFICANCE.”

 

Donna Raisa Tan

Industry: Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations
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About me: 

I had an international hospitality experience for 11 years that perhaps molded me to have the personality to serve others and understand cultures from different communities and races. I feel that so much of that takeaway is useful in my business right now, dealing with people and comprehending their perspective to achieve common goals in life.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

By being a good example to others, it is really making this world a better place. It could be respecting others’ opinions in their comments or points of view, trying to understand where they are coming from and why they act in that certain way.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Be you! This means accepting and embracing who you are, before you can accept and love others, you need to love yourself first. Work on something that could build your confidence, skills, mental health, knowledge or talents. Become the best version of yourself. Believe me, when you do that, nothing nor anyone can bring you down because you know your worth and value in this world.

 

Elizabeth Ocampo

Industry: Manufacturing
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About me: 

My passions are spreading love, humanity, happiness and kindness with my family and with every person. I value treating others with the same kindness and respect that I want to myself and my family. I believe in choosing love in everything you do and it will fall in line.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Make it easy for my LinkedIn FAM to participate in some free training resources with my connections and with my friends that are willing to help me out to develop the high potential talent of people needed for help.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Always think positive. Our mind is a powerful tool and believing that we are powerful and believe in ourselves that we can do it.

 

Emile Therese Bautista Garcia

Industry: Consulting
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About me: 

Growing up, we were taught to always do the right thing. So it has become my guiding principle in life. No matter the challenge, no matter the consequence, I always strive to do the right thing. 

This has become a great “asset” in my role in HR especially as I moved up the ladder. When it comes to relating with others, I am very passionate about helping them (my team, friends, clients) hone their God given talents into strengths.

I believe that a world where people have unleashed their true potentials and brought it to good use, is a world we can certainly pass on for generations and generations more, a world filled with peace, happiness and awesome new discoveries.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

In HR, Strengths Coaching or Wellbeing, I always ensure to allow opportunities across genders, countries and social classes or segments in the corporate world. 

For example, some people will say that coaching is expensive and only for executives. But in fact coaching is for everyone, some just don’t have the means to invest in it. Through pro-bono coaching, I am able to help employees who also need help navigating their current situation to move towards their success.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Most of us grew up where boxes are everywhere – from traditional and stereotypical gender roles to certain types of profession for women. We are now in the age where these boxes have opened up and boundaries have started to break down. 

As women, let’s continue to ask ourselves how to contribute to this progress and how we, in turn, prepare and create a more gender equal, balanced world, where women (and all other genders for that matter) can live carefree (not to be confused with careless). And always remember that we always support each other, reach out when you need help and, when you have the capacity to help others, open yourself up for mentoring and coaching the young ones and those in need as well

 

Erika So

Industry: Banking & Finance
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About me: 

I’m a sunshine yellow! I’m charismatic, friendly, bubbly, the type who would always try to make everyone feel warm. Being a recruiter works well for me because I’m the type who loves meeting new people and learning from them. Although I take all the roles that I play in my life very seriously, I make sure to incorporate “fun” all the time. I enjoy being a positive force to others and I hate negativity.

I advocate shifting careers especially if it meant pursuing something that will truly make you happy. As for me, I made a 360-degree turn when I shifted to recruiting from being a nurse. It wasn’t easy, I had to learn everything from scratch but it was all worth it. 

I wouldn’t trade happiness over a career that could probably make me 5x richer but is not something I genuinely want. Besides, if you pursue something you’re passionate about and you work hard to excel in that area, money, position and recognition will all follow.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

As a recruiter, I help build diverse teams by sourcing candidates across different channels and not just limiting my pool towards one type of profile. I’m a firm advocate of taking calculated risks in recruiting and providing equal employment opportunities to everyone regardless of their gender, race or beliefs. I’m happy to be a part of an organization that promotes that and more.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Take care of yourself, too. Spending time recognizing your individual needs is not selfish. I understand that there are so many things that can get in the way of us taking care of ourselves like responsibilities for the family, work, social commitments and more. 

But we have to realize that when we do take care of ourselves and our needs that’s when we’re best able to show up for all of the other people in our lives

 

Eunice Punzalan-Juanzo

Industry: Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations
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About me: 

I grew up in a Christ-believing family, the ones that go to church every Sunday, raise their hands and serve in church. At the same time, I also grew up self-serving, arrogant and prideful. Thinking that I’m better than the other kids in school. Christ really did not make a lot of sense then.

Not until I learned the true meaning of having a relationship with Christ and his love for the world- for sinners like me. I learned about humility and what truly it means to serve other people. Things changed from thereon.

I brought the “serving people” mindset in the workplace and came from a place of genuine help to others, especially in Marketing. I work passionately in my line of work but I also enjoy rest days with my husband. I love listening to podcasts and producing podcasts for others.

I recently discovered a new passion for arts. I like watercolor painting. It helps me relax.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I know that everyone comes from different upbringing, background, and culture and for me it’s important that I express love, respect and acceptance as the foundation in creating contents, engaging in conversations and building online communities.

I encouraged everyone to voice constructive opinions, share their personal insights and respect each other’s perspective. After all, we can all agree to disagree.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

You are smart, beautiful, and resourceful! You and I know that life in the past two years has been challenging, but here you are reading this article for a reason. And I know for sure that you are getting a lot of amazing ideas, leadership-thoughts and stories from inspiring Filipino women like yourself.

And I want you to know that you have the power in your hands to take control of your career and your life. There are many resources and options for us now.

 

Fabi Cariño

Industry: Education & Training
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About me: 

My mission in life is to make an impact in people’s lives and career. I started from humble beginnings. Coming from Baguio City, I moved to Manila at the age of 19 after graduating Clinical Psychology major in Counseling with the vision to build my career. I had no network or financially rich family. 

I started from the ranks in the corporate world as an HR practitioner. I am blessed with the gift of gab, and I chose to develop a career in learning and development. From the pharmaceutical industry where I specialized in sales to the business process and shared services handling APAC . I also had the opportunity to work with media where I was integral in setting up a corporate university. My last job as Country HR head of a leading multinational advertising firm.

As a psychologist, neuro-science certified practitioner and coach I have developed and facilitated numerous programs for my employer and shared these with many other companies in the Philippines and in Asia. I was a radio-host for 3 years with the show called “Pinoy Kaya mo yan” empowering Filipinos to be the best version of themselves.

During the peak of the pandemic, I specially designed modules for leaders, HR community and employees to prioritize their wellbeing with the focus on Self- Care and Mind your mind programs. On top of these, I have participated in many events and seminars to contribute my learnings in the field of human resources.

My number 1 belief I practice would be that Mindset is everything – what your mind can imagine and dream, you can truly achieve through faith and action. Believing in yourself is the first step to success. 

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

In the past 24 months, I found a better purpose and have actively made a choice to consistently be a content provider on Linkedin by sharing my beliefs and practices on mindset, mental health, inspirational life and workplace lessons

I understand that each of us are going through a lot and through reminders, encouragement and motivation, somehow you can inspire people to feel supported and pushing others in having faith in themselves.

I share my own stories of failures, struggles and experiences which many can resonate with. I am grateful and inspired to do more when I get responses and feedback on how positive and full of impact my stories and posts have on them.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

My best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal is by setting their minds to be the best version of themselves through learning and education. It is to have that growth mindset and seize the opportunity to learn and be responsible for yourself before taking care of others . Everyday there is something to learn. Choose empowerment, courage and gratitude

 

Gail Concepcion Cruz-Macapagal

Industry: Information Technology
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About me: 

I am very passionate about emancipating, educating and empowering street children. Our Humanity shelters are located in Bogo, Cebu and Makati City.

I am also into empowering women and encouraging them to participate in the male dominated Tech World, hence my participation in Women in Blockchain in the Philippines.

I am also passionate about providing digital identity and economic freedom to the indigenous people in the Caraga region via our project Caraga Convergence Initiative.

I support women and children and I have 3 wonderful kids.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I use my influence via LinkedIn and via my speaking engagements. I ensure that the content of my talks include diversity, equitability and inclusivity.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

My advice: Be brave, be bold and do not let anything get in the way of your dreams and aspirations. Let me leave you with my favorite quote: “Little by little, day by day what’s meant for you will surely come its way.”

 

Ginger Arboleda

Industry: Information Technology
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About me: 

I co-lead the Lean In Manila Network and we provide a safe space for women to talk about issues and challenges. Also, with the platforms that I have, I use them to help educate people about equality and push for solutions that promote inclusive growth.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I realized that my purpose was to help other people who want to get into entrepreneurship or start a business or pursue a freelancing career. As you’ve noticed, I have businesses that help me do that. 

I believe that continuous learning is crucial for self development and helps in achieving our goals. I also believe that empathy, integrity and self awareness can help us become successful at what we do.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

We should help each other. Collaboration over competition is vital for all of us to achieve the dreams that we have for ourselves and for our community. Always be kind and be open to opportunities that give value to others.

 

Gladys Anna Guañez

Industry: Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations
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About me: 

I believe that client-getting is not rocket science. It is not born out of natural talents, rather it is something that you can learn and even nurture… Because client-getting is also a skill! And you can make it work for you, too.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

To help create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive, I always make sure to create room for openness and compromise.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

It all starts with simply being visible… Each of us has a mission, whether we’re already aware of it or not. So we need to be seen, heard, and remembered in order to fulfill what we’re supposed to become. It’s time to be seen and let your voice be heard

 

Grace Reyes

Industry: Banking & Finance
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About me: 

I came from humble beginnings, immigrating from the Philippines when I was 4 and was raised in the south side of Stockton. My mom was a single mom raising three kids while working multiple jobs — sometimes three jobs at a time.

Since her full-time job as a special education teacher’s assistant was on break during the summer, she would always go to a cannery in Alaska during this period, canning fish while we stayed with my younger aunts who were like older sisters since they were closer in age to me.

While my mom never stopped working, every moment that my siblings and I had with her were filled with love (and home cooked Filipino food like the best chicken adobo ever!).

She passed away at the young age of 50 from cancer. I was only 25 at the time. And while she’s gone, the value of hard work and quality of time with family has been ingrained with me. It’s something I will always keep forever. It has instilled within me a strong appreciation of the need for work/life balance and never taking any moment for granted.

My passion is networking and connecting with others from all walks of life. Working within the field of finance while promoting a message of diversity and inclusion – something I strongly believe in. Our work to create a future of more diverse impact and help advance minorities, women and young investment professionals across our field, is something that inspires me daily.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

In particular I’m grateful to the support within the TIDE community, which lets me combine my best talents – working within the field of finance while promoting a message of diversity and inclusion – something I strongly believe in. Our work to create a future of more diverse impact and help advance minorities, women and young investment professionals across our field, is something that inspires me daily.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

I just read this quote from Oprah a few weeks ago that I believe would be my best advice for fellow Filipino women in the “new normal” :

“The key to realizing a dream is to focus not on success but on significance–and then even the small steps and little victories along your path will take on greater meaning.” -Oprah

 

Grace Tolentino

Industry: Fund management
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About me: 

I believe in long- term business partnerships and strong friendships that have built our global connections. I am very passionate in handling global funds and bringing more investments to the Philippines as I see a lot of opportunities that landed our successful deals and has been the foundation of our continued achievements acknowledged by High authority and respected business men. You have to bring your expertise in everything you do and use your strength to build lasting impact on society.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

We build newer and greater projects with our global media Television channels. It is an exciting venture for us as we have our own primetime show showcasing the Philippines as One Big Investment Destination to the world, it is entitled after my company name: The Beauty of Boracay Beach. My company is the main sponsor of our global media network with over 33 affiliates in 14 countries. It will be attracting the global investor community and financial institutions to invest in our fund and guiding them through doing business in the Philippines.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Never think you are a beginner. Use your strength and all your resources as you put your heart and mind in everything you do. Always be professional, never allow anyone to waste your time or put you down but focus on your goals, your vision and make it happen.

 

Hiyasmin Neri-Soyao

Industry: Ecommerce and Social Commerce and Marketing
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About me: 

I believe that curiosity leads to learnings, and learnings applied to adapt to the changing environment, allows you to discover your own unique space and techniques, so that you can offer best solutions to others in times of need.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

By sharing content on learnings, failures, wins and thoughts, I get to spark conversations with different people who can relate. Those little things matter.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

For tose who want to start a side hustle or a business, be brave by creating and selling a minimum viable product. Once you see that people are interested to buy your product, capitalize and invest more time, effort and resources. Start small, learn the ropes, and learn to scale along the way.

 

Ires Salandanan

Industry: Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
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About me: 

I’m a Recruiter with years of experience and strong exposure to Executive Search, Staff Augmentation, Volume Hiring, Recruitment Outsourcing, and Management. I believe in developing oneself in order to develop others. 

With the right amount of commitment and discipline (and sacrifice), you will get to where to want to be. Now that I’m a mother, I have become more appreciative of work-life balance and relate to people that I’m meeting – they have families to feed and inspiration to do more and become more. That’s why I believe in determination and the right attitude more than the skills.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Working as the global team leader of recruitment at Filta has given me the opportunity to see how small the world really is, as we are connecting people of different walks of life and bringing them together with a common purpose.

Over my career, I’ve had the pleasure of helping many Filipinos find fulfilling jobs and careers, and now I’m not only able to do the same in Australia, the US, and Colombia but I’m also seeing how connecting people from different cultures and walks of life creates increased understanding and inclusion. 

I’ve learnt that diversity, equality and inclusiveness starts with understanding and acceptance of what’s different. Through my job, I get to meet people of all walks of life, and introduce them to different ideas, ways of thinking and situations they may not normally find themselves in if they are only working in a local market. It’s because of that I love my job and I thrive on it.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

I love this quote: “If you tried and failed, congratulations. Most people won’t even try.” The COVID situation, if you look at it in a positive way, opened a lot of opportunities not only for career but personal development. Don’t be afraid to try something new, you can always charge it to experience.

 

Ivy Paraluman De Borja

Industry: Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
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About me: 

I am an HR Leader with over 16 years of experience in various industries. Prior to my current stint as VP for People & Culture for Acquire BPO, I was the Director for Recruitment and HR at Harte Hanks, an HR Assistant Vice President with Genpact, an HR Manager with Resorts World Manila, and an HR Assistant Manager with Sitel. 

My areas of expertise are fast-paced volume recruiting, HR business partnership, employee engagement, and organization development. I was certified by the Human Capital Institute as a Strategic HR Business Partner (sHRBP) in November 2016 and since then, my advocacy has been to help fellow local HR professionals be strategic partners to the business.

Aside from my degree in Social Sciences double Major in Psychology and Political Science acquired from the University of the Philippines, I have a post baccalaureate diploma in Organization Development from De La Salle College of St. Benilde School of Professional and Continuing Education (SPACE). 

Named in 2021 as one of the Top 100 Filipino Women to Follow on LinkedIn, and by the World HRD Congress as one of the top 101 Most Fabulous HR Tech Leader in the World in 2020, and elected at the Call Center Association of the Philippines to be the lead for Labor and Legislation efforts of the industry, I am determined to help advance the state of Human Resources in ways I could, not only in my own organization and industry but also in the entire country. 

I share my knowledge and insights to the HR Community as knowledge empowers people to change, advance and elevate our way of managing the most important asset of companies — its people.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

It is relatively easy to post inspirational thoughts in social media. The difficult part is in bringing such values to life when circumstances and people challenge the practice of such philosophies.

To create a world that is diverse, equitable and inclusive, we need to preach what we practice (yes, do it first, then talk about it). There are times when others question my position on certain things, and my source of strength in such difficult moments is I am woke, I think critically and I show empathy where needed. 

I speak to my truth even if it hurts and by doing so, in my own way consistently make it known to all around me what I believe in and stand for.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

This Pandemic is testing our stamina. It requires sustained and consistent effort on our part to live through it.

As the world slowly opens back up, we will soon realize things are never going back to the way they were. Work from Home or Hybrid set-up and School from Home are just a few of many changes that are here to stay for quite a while.

Aside from keeping strong, we also need to teach our family, friends, and teams to be patient, understanding and open to creative and new ways as they need to move at the same pace and direction as we do. Such changes can actually enable us to do better and achieve more— collectively as a community, we just need to give these new ways a chance.

 

Jacquelyn Buccahi

Industry: E-Commerce
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About me: 

After graduating as Cum Laude in Polytechnic University of the Philippines with a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Communication, I started working with Startup companies as a Sales person and since then I became passionate in helping Startups to grow their business. 

While climbing the ladder on the sales side of the corporate world with hard work and passion in my heart and mind, I also equipped myself in financial and business management by attending fast track trainings and getting a license from insurance commission of the Philippines. Having an entrepreneurial mindset, in the latter part of 2021, I was able to put up my own furniture business and have it incorporated in the same year. 

I help empower women I work with by doing financial, sales and business coaching to them. I believe that every woman is a masterpiece from God as they are capable of bringing life into this world, not only that, they can also bring a good legacy by finding their purpose, mission and achieving their full potential. Inspirational women uplifts and empowers one another.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I use my influence as a Filipina woman by fulfilling my mission of uplifting the lives of the people I engage with such as the small scale farmers who have been the lowest paying individuals in our country. 

As the Head of Sales & Marketing in Zagana, I and my team are creating a demand for the produce of these farmers in order for them to sell their produce to a larger market and have a continuous and consistent buyers for their produce. 

As a Licensed Financial Advisor, I use my influence to equip every individual (regardless of age, sex, religion etc) in financial management and help them invest wisely their hard-earned money to a more significant and long-term investment that will benefit their lives. 

As a CEO of Hannaliya Furnitures Inc., we offer people the most-affordable high-quality furniture which is a value for their money. In this furniture business, I also provide jobs to people who lost their job during the pandemic.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Every Filipino woman can thrive in this new normal by using or maximizing their strengths and capabilities that will provide solutions to the problems of the society in the new normal. Also, by having a passion combined with determination with what they do, they can be able to achieve their goals and in turn will also benefit the people they work or engage with.

 

Jan Abdelghany

Industry: Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
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About me: 

Jan means God is gracious, and that’s the most fitting name for me for I have been living by grace and through God’s grace all this time.

I’m the founder of Algorhythm (BPO), and my vision for Algorhythm is to bring jobs closer to people because no Filipino deserves to wake up as early as 4 am to commute to an 8 am job and punch out at 5 pm only to get home by 9 pm.

I’m quite passionate about filling the employment gap — to provide jobs, uplift our kababayan’s lives, and showcase our local talents, so they do not have to travel far away to find opportunities that fit their skills.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Given my current status, if I were to help create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive; it will be through generating jobs for my community, which further create many avenues of opportunity to pursue lifelong learning.

These opportunities will result in empowerment based on their earned merit and talents regardless of cultural differences and socio-economic backgrounds. I hope that these actions will ripple through each neighborhood, thereby stimulating growth and development in our community.

 

Jan Briones

Industry: Coach | Agency Founder & CEO | Podcast Host
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About me: 

I value great and long-term relationships not just with fellow Filipinos but also with clients here and abroad. I believe that Filipinos can be at par with other 1st world country freelancers and deserve to also be recognized as world-class talents in delivering high-level services.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I built my businesses from scratch and always with the intention of giving more jobs to fellow Filipinos no matter what their status are. I did live workshops prior to pandemic and continued teaching virtually when almost everybody around the world transitioned into digital marketing and education. I will never stop learning and sharing what I know to the world the best way I know how. 🙂

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Just keep going! No matter the adversities we face, just don’t stop. You got this, beautiful!!! 🙂

 

Jane Martinito

Industry: Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations
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About me: 

I’m a homeschooling mom to my daughter who’s diagnosed with autism. I’m my daughter’s voice so I’m advocating for autism to educate the people within my reach and to inspire other parents who are going through the same situation.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

As a mom and entrepreneur, I always aim to share my story and journey with the community. I believe that in doing so, I would be able to reach out to more people who may have going through a current struggle that I may already have overcome in the past. 

There is no better advice and lesson to tell that comes from a real-life experience and this encourages authenticity in every talk or social gathering that I attend to. Each one of us has a story to tell and which we can also learn from. In today’s world, people speak of success and often neglecting the journey that one takes to get there. And so, I make sure that I make people feel that we all share the same struggles every day and it’s ok.

This is how I practice authenticity and inclusion in interacting with people.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Know your purpose and your biggest reason why you’re doing whatever you’re doing. This would keep you going and be on track. Keep on trying.

Don’t compare your progress to others. Use others’ progress to inspire you and work harder. Never stomp on other people just because you want to be above them.

Choose your friends wisely. Your circle of friends would always reflect who you are as a person.

Be who you are. There will always be people who can resonate with you.

Do tithing. Donate 10% of your income to your church (or to a foundation that you want to support). I know, it’s difficult to give, especially this time of pandemic and war. But, trust me, the floods of heaven will open when you’re consistent in giving.

 

Janeth Destreza

Industry: Information Technology
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About me: 

I am a Sourcing Team Lead, I do have a lot of values in life but maybe the one that applies today is “Success is not about me alone, but as to how I uplift others”. I do not have a lot of money to offer, for there are times that my budget doesn’t allow me to help. But one thing is for sure when you need someone to listen to your story and rants I am all ears and available. To listen to you and speak when it is my time to speak and voice out my thoughts about your story. 

Today, I value communication and time, for I believe it is one of the key factors to a harmonious relationship. Especially today that I am leading people. Success does not only mean the title that you hold at work or the amount of money that you have, but I view success as how happy and self-actualized you are. 

We have our own path and it depends on us on how are we going to take it. Uplifting others doesn’t mean that you will be left behind but it is an achievement knowing that you became part of someone’s success. Success for him and success for you. You give and you learn. You will be inspired and you will be an inspiration as well.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Being a global sourcing specialist, I do really have to build a diverse network. Most of my connections are from the foreign land, seeking jobs, and some also are looking for ways how to help others. 

With LinkedIn, I am able to share opportunities around the globe. It enables me to reach individuals with whom I didn’t think I would be able to meet and chat. Giving them hope that there are still ways to sustain their daily needs. With our line of work, No matter who you are, where you are, and what you have, YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE, and YOUR CONTRIBUTION COUNTS.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

“THE NEW NORMAL” it’s been almost two years but still a lot of us are still adjusting, even me. This setup teaches me that beyond every computer, laptop, or smartphone screen there is a story, someone who is hoping for a better life, a better job, a better situation, etc. but that someone SHOULD NOT QUIT. 

Do not be afraid to take baby steps and make a move to achieve your goals and your plans. Do not let this situation hinder you to move forward, knowing that the environment adjusts, you should make a move. TODAY IS THE RIGHT TIME TO MAKE THE DIFFERENCE THAT YOU WISH TO ACHIEVE.

 

Jenalyn Galarce

Industry:Information Technology
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About me: 

Jenalyn is a very passionate person, a jolly person who always thinks positively. There is no room for negativity in her and always looks forward to everything. She loves what she does. She loves working while taking care of her family. She believes loving everything you do makes your work easy and feels like you’re not working at all. She also believes that you should put GOD first in everything you do and you will never be wrong.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

By posting my different content, by reminding everyone that all of us are equal. Our lives matter, and we can create a better world by being empathetic, resilient, and being courageous to do the right thing.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Use the powerful tool, use LinkedIn to find clients, do business, or to find a job. Connect, engage, and get inspired. Have the courage to start, don’t be afraid to start all over again, and dare to speak up. Not only for yourself for others as well. Don’t be afraid to fail, failure is one of our keys to success. Be passionate, keep your passion be on fire to keep you going. Be consistent and most important build your own brand!

 

Jhen Maniago-Miranda

Industry:Tourism, Travel and Hospitality
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About me: 

I grew up in Pampanga where I had fond memories. Having been educated by the Benedictine Sisters, the motto of St. Scholastica’s Academy was embedded in my daily life, that is ORA ET LABORA, Pray and Work. I have always believed that success can be ultimately achieved only if we work hard for it but at the same time continuously ask for God’s providence and guidance.

I value health and energy. Why? Because without physical health, it can be very difficult to experience and enjoy life and all the other values.

I also highly value love. This is not just romantic love, but love of all things. It is putting your HeaRt in whatever we do. Why? Because making love a priority in your life means there is no room for hate, selfishness, or indifference. We can always experience love to anything or with anyone. You could experience love in yourself, by yourself.

I also value Gratitude and Appreciation: real gratitude shuts down all other negative emotions in the moment. It is important to make gratitude a top value and practice it as a priority every day.

Integrity and consistency are also important to me. These build creativity, knowing you do the right thing, even when no one is watching. The inner knowing you always do what is right brings you inner peace.

Most of all I value relationships. Family, Friendship, Colleagues and our community. it’s caring about someone more than you care about yourself. It’s putting others first. It’s making time for people you care about. It’s giving the people you love, and maybe even strangers, your complete presence, and building that connection. It’s making someone else’s day better just because you were in it.

It’s bringing your best self to every encounter, so the other person walks away with a smile.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

As the HR Head of our company, it is my commitment to always make sure we foster a workplace and a culture of diversity, equality, and inclusivity, where there is no judgment, but more respect. We make this visible across all our properties through our various policies, procedures, activities, and sustainability programs.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

That amidst all the changes and challenges we are facing, let us not sacrifice what truly makes us happy.

Happiness: it’s joy, it’s playfulness, it’s fun, it’s non-seriousness, it’s a state of real happiness. When time stops and you love what you are doing. 

Why? It’s what we all seek. But we do it in so many different ways. Some try and find it through money. But no type of paper is going to bring it to you. Some try and find it through achievements and success, but they come empty. It’s within and it’s a choice. It’s always available and never on sale.

 

Jilley Lapaan

Industry: Consumer Goods
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About me: 

Outside of my corporate work, I am a certified aerial fitness instructor. I aim to empower women and men and help remove the stereotype on this kind of workout and be part of the movement to recognize aerial fitness as a sport.

Aside from these, I am very active in movements concerning women and children’s rights and mental health and wellness.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

As a talent acquisition professional, it is important to commit to diversity, equity and inclusion by providing equal opportunities to everyone, modifying policies and most importantly, promoting a culture of respect and inclusion — and this one I make sure starts with me and my open mind.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Love yourself first. 

In this world that is constantly making you question your worth and abilities as a woman, loving yourself is the best response, every single time.

 

Joann Farmer – Aquino

Industry: Architecture and Engineering design and construction management
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About me: 

I am a licensed Civil / Structural Engineer by profession and had been in the construction industry for more than three decades practicing structural design and construction management.

I have also shared my expertise as a college lecturer in various colleges and universities.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

In my own small way I am creating an impact on my family, friends and community by volunteering in community activities and practicing a healthy lifestyle. This influences my online friends too from around the world.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Filipino women should know their worth as a Filipina and as a woman. They should be confident and believe that they are worthy of trust and respect and can thrive in whatever adversities they may encounter in life.

 

Julmar Grace Locsin

Industry: Education & Training
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About me: 

This my Leadership Credo as a person and entrepreneur:

LEADERSHIP CREDO

The following are the values I will make myself accountable and I will look for in people as I build my network and team. I will expect my managers, staff trainers, franchisees, freelancers, partners, and peers to challenge me when my behavior does not reflect these values. 

I will reflect on my actions to ensure that I follow my heart. I acknowledge that over time, my understanding of what I value most may change and I will be honest with myself when I recognize changes.

• Family – I will treat each one of my people as family. I will think of their long-term success, those that they value and love, and always cling to their best interest and welfare.
• Relevance – I will ensure relevance in our ways. That we are not doing what we do just for the sake of economic purposes or other intentions away from our mission. I will strive to choose paths that are relevant to our social empowerment goals.
• Equality – I will deem each one with equal respect and love. Not minding the color, status, background, orientations, and values in life.
• Excellence – I will walk the talk as the company embraces excellence. I will lead by example and give quality in all our quests.
• Delight – I will endeavor to give delight to those that run the mission with me. That there is a joy as they play that part of the whole vision.
• Optimism – I will lead with optimism and vigor. To carry those who are weak, encourage those who are tired, guide those who are lost, and empower those who need equipping.
• Meaning – I will always aim to live a meaningful life as a lead. To inspire, influence and impact lives.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

This is my Mission, Vision and Value as a person and I will be guided by this in creating a better and sustainable world transforming lives and social systems:

Mission: To impact lives

Vision: Transformational Leadership

Values

Joy: I desire to always live in joy as I serve God, love my family, and impact lives.

God-first: To have excellence and integrity in everything I do out of my relationship with Jesus.

Legacy: To live a fulfilled life inspiring generations through the years.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Don’t be defined by any circumstances around you on who and what a Filipino woman should be. Pursue the passions in your heart and dream big dreams. It is only crossing the stigma of social norms that you can create your own legacy. The more you aspire for greater height, the more you can also inspire others.

 

Kassy Braganza

Industry: Coaching and Consultancy
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About me: 

I sincerely believe wealth should be in the hands of good women through entrepreneurship and this is one of the best ways to elevate our credibility, authority and become industry leaders of our respective chosen fields. We women can build our own economy and break income ceilings and be enablers of dreams and change. 

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I use my influence to always remind each other that we are dream enablers, we get to create a ripple, to always operate with integrity, to walk the talk, have compassion and empathy, serve with love and let no one stop you from driving your ambition every day. 

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

No one is there to hurt you, you’ve got a superpower only you have. Get out there, let the world know what you believe in, allow your love for people and passion to burn brightest.  When you enable your dream, you also get to enable others. You get to create and design your reality. You introduce yourself as who you are, not what color or race you’re born with or the passport you carry. Pursue your happiness first because when you do, you get to make others happy, too.  Go give gift yourself that first-class ticket to Paris if you want to because Dreams don’t just come true, decisions do.  If you don’t see a seat at the table for you, make your own and fill it with women who empower one another.

 

Kathleen Muller

Industry: Information Technology
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About me: 

I am a Christian. Filipino by birth and raised in Vito Cruz, Manila. My three children are the inspirations of my leadership practice. I believe in the power of ¨We¨. Together, we have every opportunity to shape a kinder, more inclusive and accessible future. This starts with how we lead ourselves and others.

In many respects, LinkedIn is my seat at the “table” in a society fighting to dismantle exclusivity and uniformity. I use LinkedIn to honour the unique contributions we bring to the world.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

The privilege to influence others is a gift we must strive to honour daily. Leading by example, with kindness is my first approach. Next, learning better ways to spotlight those who are different from me, is an on-going journey. 

Most importantly, I honour the privilege to influence others by creating and reimagining more inclusive opportunities for work, collaboration and growth. 

For example, a current passion project for me is to reimagine job descriptions, how we communicate job opportunities in the market to attract talent who are different from the talent profiles in our organisation. And, how we give even more chances for diverse talent to experience deeper or wider responsibilities.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

To my fellow Filipino women. You are stars! Shine brightly. Raise your hand. Especially when you are the only one of your kind in the room, remember your impact begins when you do at least one of these two things. 

First, prepare to speak up, speak kindly in an environment of uniformity. Second, even out the odds respectfully. This may look like inviting someone else to the room who is different from the majority. Yes, especially if that someone is also different from you and everyone else in the room.

 

Kim Lato

Industry:Retail & Commerce
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About me: 

I am Kim Lato — the owner, founder and CEO of kimstore.com, the largest and longest running eCommerce company in the Philippines. They say that I am one the pioneers of eCommerce in the Philippines and indeed, this has been my passion since I was in college. 

I started selling when I was 18 years old through Multiply.com — and 15 years after, I now have my own brand. Aside from eCommerce, another budding interest of mine is women empowerment especially in the workplace and breaking stereotypes and biases – in whatever form. I strongly believe that Women Can.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I believe that words have power — more than what we can imagine. Our words have impact and will remain even if we leave this world. Recognizing these, I, as an entrepreneur, use my different platforms and channels to communicate with my target audience. 

I make sure to communicate my advocacies such as women empowerment and breaking biases through the content that I am producing. Just to share, as we celebrated our 15th founding anniversary last November, we highlighted some of our efforts in inclusivity such as employing our very first deaf employee in our workforce. We are very proud of this step because we can proudly say that we are an inclusive workplace.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

You do you. Don’t let other people’s expectations control you because you know what you are capable of. Stay humble and stay curious to remain in the game especially now, in the new normal, wherein the growth of industries are different and fast because we are still adjusting. Just stick with your core and purpose so it will remain as your drive to thrive in whichever industry you belong.

 

Kimberly “Kimmy” Chua

Industry: Education & Training
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About me: 

Kimmy is a fellow human being – like you and me. She is an Abundance Coach from Moment to Moment Stress Management Solutions. She is a registered psychometrician, financial advisor, meditation and yoga teacher advocating for the youth and the practice of mindfulness and loving kindness integrated into one’s day-to-day routine.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Through leading by example and sharing gentle nudges such as facial muscle exercises, kind words towards the self and others, and breathing and laughter exercises — all of this linked to taking mindful breaks – and emphasizing the value of being fully present in the here and now.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Let’s continue to practice the pause. May we remember that our PRESENCE is one of the best presents we can offer to others. Cheers to embracing both our lights and shadows – and uplifting each other.

 

Korina Mercado

Industry: Aviation
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About me: 

In Optimize Life Series Project, Korina shares about the importance of data not only in business but in life as well. How well do you know yourself? What are your fears? Do you know which areas of life you’re good at and do you have metrics set for yourself?

Korina has been with Optimization field for 9 years now and she thought of applying these concepts in life. In addition to this she believes in DCF = Desire + Consistency + Faith is the key to any success. Everything starts with a burning desire, the desire/dream/mission planted in your heart. 

That burning desire will move you. It’s the start and fuel but most people fail in the consistency part. Remember that who you are today will not last forever. Consistency is the key. The last one is Faith, when you are hopeless have faith.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Be KNOWLEDGEABLE of all aspects of Diversity and Fairness in your arena. It’s important for me that I do my mission in a proper way because if you do things right, success will follow you.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

UNAPOLOGETICALLY AMBITIOUS.

 

Kristine Arvesu

Industry: Manufacturing (Including Engineering Services)
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About me: 

I am currently working as a Talent Acquisition Lead and EVP (Employer Branding) Project Lead in KONE Asia Pacific. I also headed the Culture, Diversity & Inclusion stream of our Empowered People strategy in Asia Pacific for a year.

Passion and resilience are my key values in driving success in my career journey.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I will use my influence to celebrate and respect our uniqueness. Each one has a special contribution and when combined, the synergy we create will be stronger than what we would be individually.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Invest in yourself at all times. Live a healthy lifestyle, have a positive mindset, and work smart!

Have a clear vision of your personal and career goals. No one can stop a Filipino women in thriving in the new normal. Always believe in yourself!

 

Kristine Custodio Suero

Industry:Legal
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About me: 

A dedicated coach, educator and change agent for legal professionals

Kristine Custodio Suero is an award-winning legal professional and a highly sought-after speaker in her profession inspiring legal professionals to achieve authentic, purpose-driven careers and lives. A true servant leader, she has led the San Diego Paralegal Association and California Alliance of Paralegal Associations as President.

She is most passionate about the innovation economy and dedicates her time to inclusive economic development projects, including employee ownership, and endeavoring to advance women in business, especially in non-traditional roles and industries such as STEAM and construction. Kristine was reappointed as a Commissioner and served as the Chair (2020-2022) of the City of San Diego Citizens’ Equal Opportunity Commission advocating for supplier diversity in contracting with the City of San Diego and bridging the rich cultural landscape of her beloved city with opportunities of economic impact to build a vibrant place to live, work and play.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Representation matters. I am known to say often: when you see it, you can be it. As a woman of color, I understand the platforms that I am honored to stand upon as attainment of my personal and professional goals represent firsts for Filipino women in the legal profession. Raised by a strong, opinionated Filipino woman, a deep sense of equity has been  modeled and fostered in every aspect of my life. I dedicate much of my time to empowering and uplifting women and particularly women in business to the highest levels of leadership and entrepreneurship. I am currently focusing my energy and efforts on building leadership skills and access for underrepresented young women. 

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

This is the advice that I impart to my students and to anyone that I am mentoring: never give up. Do the work to understand who you are, your strengths and how you wish to use these things to live a purposeful life. There is a wise saying, love what you do and you will never work a day in your life. Don’t stop until you find that.

 

Laraine Zyreen Marcelo

Industry:Professional Training and Consulting
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About me: 

I am highly passionate about learning and technology. I believe when these two are used well together, it will be a powerful tool in creating a world with no uneducated individuals.

Currently, my mission is to empower individuals and communities by creating an ecosystem where they can build and share highly engaging, highly interactive, and easily accessible learning content and experience that will not only inform, but inspire and influence people to become better professionals and leaders.

My vision is to create a world with no uneducated individuals, where everyone can think, decide, and act justly and effectively, by transforming how people see “learning”.

– where learning is seen as a hobby, and not a chore;

– where learning can be easily and effectively created and shared to anyone, anytime, anywhere.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

By sharing/ co-promoting content that will inform, inspire, and influence them in creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive world.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

If you still think that what you can achieve is limited because of your gender, NO. It’s high time you drop that thinking. You’re not limited because you’re a woman, you’re limited because you think “I’m only a woman”.

So think, decide, act, and lead based on WHAT YOU CAN DO (abilities/ skills/ expertise) and

WHAT YOU WANT TO DO (mission/ vision/ goals), and not because of what they say “here’s what women can only do”.

Go and show them YOU.

 

Le-an Lai Lacaba

Industry:Business Services
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About me: 

She has been working from home since she was 15, published her own book at 18, became CEO at 20, and partnered up with her boss to start 2xYou Executive Services at 23 and aims to help 10,000 entrepreneurs grow remotely, and 1 Million Filipinos to work from home.

She also has a coaching brand on Youtube, where she trains Virtual Assistants on how to work from home. She is also an international speaker, and a content creation monster who has a blog, a Youtube channel, and an upcoming podcast. 

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I always give a lot of free information online on how people can turn their lives around by becoming virtual assistants. I have a YouTube channel with almost 10k subs where I share videos twice a week by giving many ideas and information. In TikTok, where I have 30K plus followers, I always share reliable tips to help people gain more knowledge about virtual assistants. .

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Lean truly into becoming yourself. Learn your strengths, learn your weaknesses, and focus on your strengths. So then your weaknesses can also get stronger at the same time. When it comes to the new normal, it is about just finding out what your voice is, what you stand for, and who you want to become in this upcoming decade that we have been living in

 

Leah Cendana

Industry: Human Resource Consulting
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About me: 

I am in a business of making happy people happier. I support the careers and of course the lives of many professionals and executives by leading them to greater career opportunities. Because I love meeting and relating to people, I never see this as a job but a passion.

I am also an advocate of People with Disability hiring/support. I am a mother of a 15 year old Autistic son.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

In my capacity as a Talent Attraction Consultant to clients, I am able to present a variety of talents as options, Women, LGBTQ, PWDs.

I most especially try to influence company clients to support and have a program on PWD Hiring.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Nowadays, it’s no longer who you know that helps you, it’s what you can bring to the table:

1. Expertise and Continuous Upskilling
2. Resiliency and Grit will bring you to the finish line WELL
3. Always bring your IKIGAI in what you do

 

Lhen Perez

Industry: Banking & Finance
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About me: 

I wear different hats in a day- I’m a wife who takes care of her husband and runs a household, a mom who is hands-on with her kids’ school activities and showers them with kisses and hugs every time she gets the chance to, a full-time career professional who gives her best to make an impact to the organization, a survivor of a major cervical spine surgery who tries to live a healthier lifestyle, an independent and strong woman who pampers and invest in herself and a little girl who loves simple joys and still keeps her 1st doll given by her Papa.

People say that I’m driven and results-oriented. I think it’s because I’ve always set the bar high (and higher each time) in everything I do. Through the years I’ve learned how to accept and love myself by focusing on my strengths, understanding my areas of opportunities and competing against myself and nobody else.

I feel accomplished when I see my team succeed and grow in their careers. I am passionate about giving back by investing my time to coach and develop team members. The same way when my previous managers have believed and invested their time in me as I was starting my career.

I was able to see life through a different lens when I had to go through a major spine surgery. All aspects of my life were going fast and smoothly as I try to be a superwoman. Now, all of a sudden, I have to re-prioritize and take some things at a much slower pace than what I’m used to. That and the pandemic have taught me the value of quality life. A life not defined by social status, financial standing or job title but a balanced life nurtured with love, passion and time for myself, family, friends, career and community.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

One of my favorite stories about Diversity and Inclusion happened when I was a fresh graduate. I am a Licensed Electronics & Communications Engineer and naturally, I wanted to land a job in a TelCo company. One of my interviewers then looked at me and said “I only hire male Engineers as I don’t think you can even climb a tower to troubleshoot a satellite dish”. (This was early 2000 when technology was not that advanced yet). 

The hiring manager didn’t even go through my qualifications and the decision was purely based on my gender. That statement shattered my fresh grad spirit and has made me stopped pursuing opportunities in the Telco industry.

As an HR practitioner, I used my platform to influence and promote a culture of diversity, equality and inclusion. It is not enough to just run a training about the topic. For me, it starts with a change in mindset and exerting conscious effort to make it a continuous process. In my line of work, I try my best to live with my commitment to not let anyone experience what I went through in that job interview. 

Being aware of unconscious bias as an interviewer, helping team members and colleagues across the region feel comfortable in expressing themselves, promoting a safe space for different beliefs and encouraging D&I discussions are some of the practices I try to be consistent on. As a gender advocate, I am passionate in sharing my stories and learnings to children, students and women in the workplace and community as I continue to break the barriers.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

The new normal may be difficult and challenging but it’s also an opportunity to reflect on your plans and redesign your life. Learn from the past, acknowledge the present and start building your newly defined future. Invest in YOU! Surround yourself with people who believe in you, support you and appreciate you. Remember that you are strong, you are beautiful, you are empowered and you are loved!

 

Liza Manalo-Mapagu

Industry: Human Resource Consulting and Technology
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About me: 

Liza Manalo-Mapagu is a leader who is breaking ground for women and blazing new paths in industry and society through her various passions and advocacies.

Touted as the country’s assessment guru, Liza carved her niche in talent assessment with more than 35-years valuable experience in Human Resource Consulting covering a wide range of industries and in multiple settings here and overseas. As a visionary and thought leader in HR, she has successfully rolled out HR technologies in the Philippines and the rest of Southeast Asia. She has more than 17 years of experience as a CEO.

As the pioneering expert in assessment, measurement and analytics, Liza is currently CEO of ASEAMETRICS, a consulting firm that is at the forefront of building capabilities, creating value, and delivering digital, strategic, and integrated solutions to drive business results. She has distinguished herself as a thought leader in the integration of cutting-edge technology and the latest scientific developments in various HR systems.

A well-sought speaker and lecturer, and consultant in the areas of psychometrics, talent management, and digital transformation, she has been a resource person in various local and international conferences.

She continues to support organizations in the area of change management for C-Level executives through programs on “Leader-Led Talent Management”, “Building Talent Analytics Culture” and “Strategic Management”.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Inclusion as well as bridging the growing inequalities in our world, particularly as a result of the pandemic, is something that keeps me awake at night, given the values my parents instilled in me since childhood.

Firstly, I had to accept and believe in the fundamental principles of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion). As a woman CEO, I continuously educate myself on DEI principles and set examples of how a leader can strategize to build a diverse, fair, and inclusive workplace. I subscribe to the principle that promoting DEI in the organization is everyone’s job. 

Aside from my professional development, I include the courses on valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion in our company-wide learning and development program. Every member of the organization is continuously educated on why DEI matter in the context of our core values of Compassion, Commitment, Collaboration, and Agility. Thus, we nurture a culture that has zero tolerance for discrimination, sexism, misogyny, bullying, sexual harassment, etc. We allot time in our regular daily check in and check out sessions to discuss personal matters that strengthen equity and foster inclusion. We provide employees access to tools such as HopeChat (online counseling platform for mental health and wellness concerns). We go out of our way to celebrate diversity.

As the ASEAMETRICS’ Chief Solution Architect, I championed the inclusion of the principles of DEI on the models and design of our programs and solutions. For instance, we provide an objective assessment before an in-person interview minimizes the impact of the interviewer’s bias. Likewise, we promote Arbinger Institute’s Outward Inclusion and other online DEI-related courses to organizations can support strengthening DEI practice. 

As a community leader, through my work with the Rotary and in my other involvements, I volunteer my services as consultant, trainer, and speaker/lecturer on topics that serve as springboard for discussion of equity and inclusion. 

I am currently active in peace-building programs and professional development of Rotary leaders as District Peace Officer and incoming Deputy Director of District 3830 Rotary Academy. I am now educating Rotary leaders on DEI principles through our training programs and, in addition, being an active female leader in a male-dominated organization like Rotary supports and models welcoming diversity in volunteer organizations.

As a parent and wife, I ensure that my family respects diversity and inclusion. We endeavor to be community leaders in these aspects.

As a person, I am conscious of always being inclusive in thought, words, and in action.

The use of social media is a platform that I use to advance my advocacy on DEI. I hope to be more vocal in my stand and advocacy on DEI through our integrated communication and advocacy efforts at ASEAMETRICS.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

The impact of the COVID 19 pandemic, particularly on Filipino women, has been profound. In a poor country, women are poorer. And women balance the many social, cultural, psychological demands placed on their shoulders. Women struggle with work-life balance, juggling work, household, and the family’s health and safety.

My advice to my fellow Filipino women is first, we need to elevate the consciousness of other women. Mindset is a powerful driver and obstacle for growth and it is time to break the mindset that asks women to settle for less or be less. 

Modern Filipino women are driven, passionate, and goal-oriented. We both can manage our careers while remaining the house manager and light of the family. To thrive in the new normal, we need to continue providing the strength and energy for our family, and it requires a resilient woman.

Second, we need to empower ourselves and other women through self-care. We need to allow the women who have been superheroes of this pandemic to find ways to re-energize and take good care of themselves. Self-care is the foundation of giving. We cannot give what we do not have. Compassion begins from within. Mental health is essential. We need to manage our stresses well by being sensitive to our bodies and emotions. So we all need to serve as catalysts for inspiring other women.

And finally, my third advice for my fellow Filipinas is to be at peace with who she is and what she can be. We are mothers, teachers, grandmothers, doctors, engineers, chefs, nurses, domestic helpers, architects, leaders. 

We can be who we want to be, we are who we are – no excuses and justification needed.

 

Loida Jerusalem

Industry: Arts & Design
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About me: 

I’m an Artist and a Poetess, with my arts and poetry, it’s inspiring and empowering others to be positively looking forward in life that despite of struggles, heartbreaks and pain, there’s always a bright side in our journey.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Positive mind

Positive heart

Positive life

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Being a woman isn’t easy but being a woman is a strength. To those women out there, you need to stand out for your rights…your rights to live and your freedom and you’re deserve to be loved.

 

Loradel Ang

Industry: Executive Search (HR/Recruitment)
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About me: 

I am one of the senior recruitment partners at Icon Executive Asia (IEA) whose specialty lies in Middle Management and C-Level requirements as well as Consultancy Search for the

digital, technology and e-commerce sectors. As a driven woman who never gets tired of learning and growing, I pursued my master’s degree in business administration while working full-time, and ventured into headhunting after five years of testing the waters in the fields of both sales and business development.

I started my career in recruitment as one of the founding iconic team members of IEA. My boldness somehow drove the company to new heights in the past two years and enabled me to build a better version of myself and has helped both our candidates and clients through my combined knowledge of the scope of business development and recruitment. Despite being a hardworking headhunter who’s always on the lookout for iconic talents and professionals, I never forget to take a well-deserved breather by letting my mind wander.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Though I don’t have a big platform yet to create a more significant impact, I believe that there are simple ways for me to make a difference. Making do with what I currently have as a headhunter, I have come accustomed to going above and beyond my role to deliver the best results that I can offer to both my clients and the candidates I tap. When it comes to clients, I always provide insights to help them identify what they are really looking for in a professional and to fulfill their requirements. At the same time, I make sure to be objective with the candidates I tap and strive to be as responsive as I can to them at all times, no matter the result of the hiring process.

Aside from giving insights and helping our clients and candidates in my own way, I also use platforms such as LinkedIn to share some meaningful and relatable experiences and learnings that could somehow touch the lives of my networks and fellow professionals.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Do not let gender stereotypes dictate your choices in life. This applies to the biggest decisions you are expected to make, such as choosing a career path and getting married or not, to the smallest ones, like picking hobbies and sports to play and movies to watch.

New normal means new opportunities to unlock. Stay focused on what you want to achieve in life. Never let your guard down but be sure to breathe at times. If you ever fail, bounce back and come back stronger. Remember that in these modern times, what men can do, women can do better.

 

Lorenz Aimee DM. Mutia

Industry: Pharmaceutical
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About me: 

I am a Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP) with ten years of solid end-to-end recruitment background from Business Process Outsourcing, Information Technology, Property Technology, and Pharmaceutical industries. Outside of recruitment, I am also a Certificated Paralegal and an Employer Branding Professional. What keeps me busy outside of work would be taking up a Master’s Degree in International Business and if time permits I squeeze in studying Spanish Language and Translation. 

Throughout my career, I have always believed in the value of integrity and transparency. Integrity is valued even more highly in this day and age because it is so rare. Many people attempt to make the best decisions, yet they are motivated by self-interest. When a person has true integrity, he or she will desire to do the right thing simply because it is the right thing to do. 

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

As a recruitment professional, I influence the creation of a diverse workforce. I believe that people from every walk of life are needed to work to maintain the liveliness while working.

Promoting variety is the first step toward actual inclusion and acceptance, not just “”tolerance.”” We learn how to relate to the difference in a way that isn’t a problem, a barrier, or a threat by increasing our contact with, exposure to, and dialogue with others who aren’t like us. Our opinions can be shaped and shifted as we get more familiar with these distinctions (and commonalities).

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

The new normal has paved the way to a lot of opportunities for Filipino women. There’s a lot of learning opportunities, time to step back and determine goals to achieve and look out for new ventures to start. In my case, I enrolled in various training programs and courses online to help me improve my mindset and skills, not only for my current role but for future career prospects. 

At the end of the day, it’s really up to us on how we can make use of this situation to improve ourselves. The only question now would be: are you up for the challenge? 

 

Maria Korina Bertulfo

Industry: Education & Training
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About me: 

I am a “kuracha” mom that dedicatedly built everything from scratch. I am aggressive and straightforward; with that mindset, I was able to cope and adapt to the fast-paced development of technology and the freelancing world. A few years ago, my personal goal is to provide for my family and help my husband to secure our future. Now, my goal is to help other moms secure and provide for their families. FHMoms will help change lives, one mom at a time.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Adapting to the changes happening to the world is a vital step to growth. With the impact I can create with FHMoms and as a mom, I value my followers’ differences and makes sure that our projects and programs do not outcast anybody. We continue developing services, programs, and projects that address the needs of the community and our followers. And in doing this, we frequently check on them through polls/ surveys. This way, we are aware of their current thoughts and needs, then we can develop/ revise our services, projects, and programs.

We should be a wise risk-taker, because of too many battles we face daily, we should choose our own, otherwise, we’re just wasting our time.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

We should be flexible and able to adapt. Change is happening fast and we should know the pacing we want to take in starting our journey. If we will always be reminded of our reasons and whys, trust that we can chase our goals at the right time. Women are complexly made; we adapt, we learn easily, and we’re resilient. Let’s use that to our advantage.

 

Maria Liselle Flipphi

Industry: Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations
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About me: 

Prior to starting my own business, I formerly worked in the academe and in a corporate foundation. I’ve built a reputation for establishing advocacy programs in the exploratory stage or reviving engagement on flagship programs. I was also preparing our programs for accreditation and public relation awards. 

I think my Eureka moment was realizing that I could translate my success in rebranding programs into rebranding people, starting with myself. I was able to tailor-fit my strengths to compete for academic jobs in Singapore, and I took the leap of faith to grow my credibility as a LinkedIn content strategist and help out a global clientele. 

But I cannot credit myself solely for my achievements. Being in a mixed-cultural marriage, I am thankful to have an entrepreneurial husband who loves to work on new possibilities rather than focus on limitations. I come from a musical family. My sisters and I formed a sibling harmony trio called Tres Hermanas Ph. 

Performing on stage and having our own Spotify channel has built my confidence to take on something new and find joy in experimentation. I am grateful to my business partner, Cheri Lynne, and the Opti/Write team because we can leverage different specialties to expand our reach and ability to help. 

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

As a writer and strategist, I like to challenge closed mindsets, start with the end in mind, and appreciate the power of many perspectives coming together to make a substantial impact. 

I can contribute by helping people uncover their strengths and reflecting this authentically on their profiles, resumes, and posts. As we help build the right mindset and tools to overcome their fears and insecurities, they are now confidently able to reach their goals (land their dream jobs, grow their new market, get in front of a new audience). Opti/Write’s clientele are from all over the world and this means we are able to help a diverse mix of people stand out, regardless of their background, gender, education, ethnicity, status or age. 

As advocates, we strive to reflect these values in our service delivery approach. In our questionnaires, discovery calls, strategy proposals, and campaigns, we personalize based on the target market. In this way, we showcase different perspectives and stories and a multitude of thoughts and beliefs.  

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Even in “normal times,” the responsibilities we carry as Filipino women in the household and at work already bear much weight. When the pandemic happened, situations keep on shifting, making it harder to find our balance, meet expectations, and support ourselves and our loved ones. 

The pressure to be constant and reliable at work and home amidst all the changes is among the most significant hurdles since it involves physical, emotional, and mental strength. 

For Filipino women to thrive in a time of constant change, the first step is accepting that change, however difficult and inconvenient, also presents opportunities. New problems need solving, new businesses starting out, and going online means you can directly reach out to people and organizations. 

There is no limit to what you can imagine yourself to be. It is time to recreate and redefine our own version of success and happiness and share these with others to help them in their discovery journey. 

LinkedIn is a great platform for personal branding and networking beyond our comfort zones because the vibe here supports growth. Do not be afraid to show the world your stories, because in doing so, you can also inspire more women to show up and stand out.  

 

Maria Lourdes de Vera

Industry: Arts & Design
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About me: 

I am passionate about raising the awareness for and supporting the significance of creative art as an effective approach to imaginative thinking, problem solving, community building and positive channeling of behavior and skills. Art is a vehicle for expression and an essential tool for healing. 

The use of Creative Arts as tools to express excellence and expertise.  I have mentored and sponsored violin and art students, teachers for special needs education, and Graduate nursing students who are writing their Masteral thesis. I enjoy creating individualized teaching modules tailored for specific children and groups. I believe in diversity and inclusivity. Appreciating the beauty of differences and finding connection within.

Education is a catalyst for positive change that caters to a developmental and humanistic approach.  As one of the 2016 Ten outstanding teachers in their field of expertise selected by ( UST, Network of Outstanding teachers NOTED, Metrobank Foundation ) UST College of Education, University of Sto. Tomas. Espana, Metro Manila, Philippines. 

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Creating a positive impact by focusing on what is universal and common inspires an inclusive global community.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

FOCUS, PASSION and DETERMINATION are tools to achieve your goals.

There will always be ups and downs and turbulent seas in life. The permanence of Change is a  given thing and spares no one. It is about learning how to ride the waves. In the midst of changing seasons The uprising “ New Normal ” is scary but still something part of life. The great shift in everything makes it difficult and challenging. 

Sustaining your FOCUS, nurturing the creative PASSION and the unwavering DETERMINATION to achieve excellence are tools to achieve your goals.

 

Marge Aviso

Industry: Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
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About me: 

I am a mom of 3, a resource trainer/speaker at DICT, a nurse and CEO at Telework PH. I sincerely believe we are now in a world where women are recognized to be influencers, achievers or creators in whatever setting they could be in. This does not limit our capabilities to showcase our talents, principles and voice to a family setting.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I remember responding to a post made on LinkedIn about dads in business and how they, too, should be recognised the way moms in business are recognised. For me, there is never a competition to begin with. Men work as hard and women work just as hard. And there are men who do better than women at keeping the household than running businesses, but that will never make them any less of a man. 

There are women who are very passionate with running businesses but are bored with housekeeping, but then again that does not make them any less of a woman. We all do our best in everything we do to integrate life, family and career. This is my belief and I use my influence to voice it on LinkedIn, with the goal of a renewed belief and stopping hate, stereotyping or discrimination.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

The new normal brought a lot of challenges and those challenges led to renewal and reconstruction. We have been given a new chance to start something new or do better as a Filipino woman. This is your chance. Do you want to build something? Do it. Do you want to inspire change and action? This is your moment. And as you navigate this new normal journey, don’t forget to seek God’s wisdom and humility, and bring goodness back to your fellow Filipino community.

 

Mary Ann Gilyn Basa

Industry: Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
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About me: 

As a solo parent and a bread winner of the family, I believe that the stigma on shaming women like me must be put to an end. We should be given equal access to suitable jobs and our children should not be cancelled by the Society. I believe that women like us are truly exceptional and phenomenal.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I use my influence to empower women like me by sharing my story to them and how am I able to overcome shame, fear, and to make them feel that no one is entitled to dismiss an independent woman. I also want to raise awareness that single parents are faced with economic, emotional and social problems and we need help from the Society.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Maximize all your resources. Grow yourself by connecting to people with the same experience and learn from them. Surround yourself with positivity and ensure having a healthy mental disposition and the rest will follow. Commit to the Lord all your plans and surely, you will succeed.

 

Maud Florentino

Industry: Retail & Commerce
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About me: 

I am Maud, a seasoned HR practitioner with a decade of substantial experience in Talent Acquisition, Employee Engagement, Performance Management, Learning & Development, and Organizational Development within the industries of FMCG, Luxury Beauty Retail, and eCommerce. 

Over the years in HR, I am known by my past and present colleagues as the “Kween of Excitement” given the employee engagement initiatives that I have implemented and how I excite my candidates in the role that I offer them. My friends consider me as a ball of energy and a ray of sunshine to everyone I meet.

I am passionate about learning, I am always looking out for and learning new and better approaches to help me grow as an HR professional. I aim to get as many as learning opportunities as I can for me to further build my credentials, gain my credibility in the HR field, and be able to contribute more in the company that I work for— I am a Chartered Professional in Human Resources, a Certified Learning & Development Professional, and a Certified Recruitment & Selection Professional.

Outside of work and school, I have been involved in the Internal Affairs of Youth for Mental Health Coalition, Inc. where I help in the Recruitment and Engagement of our members. Mental Health is a topic that I am passionate about. 

In summary, Maud is an HR professional, Licensed Teacher, Mental Health Advocate, Graduate Student, and a Talent Manager – rolled into one convenient sushi. 😎

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I always see to it that I treat people the way I would want to be treated. That’s something that my values ed teachers taught me. As a female HR practitioner, I feel as if there are others who look up to me. This inspires me to be the best version of myself so that I may bring out the best in others. 

Being an LGBTQ ally, diversity, and inclusion is something immensely important to me. My hope is that everyone in my community feels accepted, welcomed, and loved.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Take one step at a time and be patient on your progress. As we adjust to the new normal, remember to prioritize your emotional and physical well-being. As things begin to shift, it’s fine to take a step back, go at your own pace, or create boundaries.

It’s totally normal to feel distressed as you adjust to your new normal. Creating a routine might also be beneficial. Aside from focusing on work and work alone, you should schedule time for physical and emotional health, fun, creativity, social connection, stress release, and learning something new; after all, self-care isn’t selfish. You are not alone, ladies; we are all in this together.

 

May Palabrica

Industry: Banking & Finance
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About me: 

I wear many hats but I am a wife and a mom first and foremost. 

I have years of experience working in the recruitment and HR teams of multinational organizations. I am also a #corporatereturnee, and I want to inspire other moms that yes, it is possible to go back to corporate if needed. 

I am a #mompreneur, and it has become my mission to help other creative moms to pursue a side or full time business to feed their souls and earn more for the family.

Outside of work, I am a sewing enthusiast. I design gowns for kids through my #passionproject, Macy’s Dollhouse, and also teach basic sewing classes at The Mommy Sewpreneur.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I am lucky to be part of a global organization that truly embraces diversity and inclusion. Our CEO, Jane Fraser, is the first woman to lead a top American bank. It is inherent in the company values and is rooted in our hiring and employee policies.

Not all of us has the same privilege though. To influence, I join and support other women and mom communities to help inspire and empower other women through one on one support and group coaching. I believe that women supporting women will help us overcome gender biases.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

In this day and age of technology and social media, you should make yourself known! Highlight your strengths and make the world know how passionate and beautiful you are, inside and out. Keep inspiring other people through your stories, wisdom, and experiences. In a short span of time, Linkedin has given me a lot of opportunities and connections by simply doing this.

The past two years since the pandemic has brought about so many changes in our lives. And a lot will still change. As women, I believe we have strong resilience and adaptability – these superpowers will definitely help us thrive in the new normal.

 

Melany P.Tagalogon

Industry: Co-working space
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About me: 

I consider my faith above anything else. I base and depend all my decisions, plans and goals to what God wants. I am a person who treasures my personal values such as integrity, compassion, humility and loyalty to God.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

It has been my advocacy to share stories and life lessons about treating other people with respect and kindness regardless of their social status or job level or even gender. Whenever I do speaking engagements or trainings or seminars, for whatever topic it will be, I always make sure that I incorporate these values. Whenever I talk to people who seeks advices from me to always consider their values and always be the bigger person in dealing with life challenges, etc.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Love yourself first always. This is the time that we think of ourselves first. Women are known to giving their all to things they do. I know women are strong and they can be independent too. But sometimes, they give too much and forget themselves. I’d like to tell them that IT IS OKAY NOT TO BE OKAY. It is okay to cry and stop for a while. To remember that we cannot pour from an empty cup so we need to take care of ourselves.

 

Michelle Cordero-Garcia

Industry: Healthcare
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About me: 

A passionate HR practitioner is how I would describe myself.

With close to 30 years of experience working as an HR Leader, I continue to develop my passion around advancing the Filipino HR Profession specifically in the field of People Leadership, Culture Transformation, and Talent Revolution.

ADVOCACY / PASSION: My personal advocacy includes enabling the advancement of the Filipino HR Profession through my volunteer work and active involvement in the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP).

PERSONAL: I am a mother of three (3) – Mary, Miko, and Julian and wife to my loving and funny husband, Dol — for 28 years. On weekends, I love keeping quiet, listening to OPM music, decorating our home, doing a little bit of gardening, reading books… just spending time to take care of myself and my family.

RECOGNITION: Listed part of the 2020 Top 100 Filipinos to follow on LinkedIn, I’ve been honored to be accorded in 2018 as Fellow in People Management (FPM) by the Philippine Society of Fellows; received citation from CHRO Asia as one of the 2014 Global 100 Most Talented HR Leaders and 2015 Top 100 Influential HR Leaders.

CAREER: Today, as the Regional HR Director for Asia-Pacific at Dexcom, an organization with the mission to help empower people manage their diabetes through continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology – I am on a journey to build a thriving organization through people who are inspired by a purpose to make people live their best lives.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

By showing people, especially women like me, that everything is possible if you do something from the heart and when you focus on things you are passionate about. One can work, endeavor into lifelong learning, have friends and family, be active in the community, take on advocacy or volunteer work and still have time to “love oneself”. We need NOT choose what we can do in life… we can embrace all that is possible. My own life experience is a living proof that it can happen… we just need to choose it to be.

Lastly, as an HR leader, I use this part of myself to help create a safe world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive (DEI) I’ve been a very active advocate of promoting workplace cultures where people can come to work by simply being 100% themselves. I do this by ensuring DEI is part of our people strategy, it is in our company goals, we have policies to support and drive this, we support and implement various Employee Resource Groups, we communicate this every single day, and lastly — we “walk the talk”.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Be proud of who you are! Everything that you have, everything that you’ve become! Embrace your unique ability to be able to do multiple tasks at the same time. Your resiliency is exactly what we need to thrive in today’s world. Celebrate life’s successes and challenges as it helps you become a better person. Cry if you need to. Laugh if you want to. Be who you are – love yourself 100%. Never be afraid of the unknown. Thrive and survive with your “heart” at the core and center. Follow your dreams! Be 100% YOU.

 

Mikki Sachiko 

Industry: Healthcare
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About me: 

I’m a firm believer in holistic health, I’ve personally seen how it transformed my life. I love meditation and try my best to improve my yoga practice as well as the mindful living. But I also advocate for being OK having for non-linear wellness path therefore – making our healthy habits sustainable is as important as creating them.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Inclusivity is important. We strive to create contents and experiences that promote holistic health regardless of YOUR gender, race, type of diet, and age. Our goal is that through these different initiatives it will inspire you to make more mindful choices and habits to boost your health.

All women are phenomenal and I believe that for us to thrive we have to be OK being vulnerable and not being perfect. Knowing our weaknesses is just as important as knowing our strengths.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

All women are phenomenal and I believe that for us to thrive we have to be OK being vulnerable and not being perfect. Knowing our weaknesses is just as important as knowing our strengths.

 

Nica Valdeavilla-Velarde

Industry: Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations
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About me: 

I’ve been a media buyer for the past 5 years and a remote worker in the last 7 years. 🙂 And throughout those years, I’ve become passionate about personal growth, specifically through learning new skills/mindsets. Being in the marketing and advertising industry, things change pretty quickly so I must always adapt to change and thrive. I definitely take pleasure in the process of learning!

I’m also a huge believer of giving back and helping out – so whenever a newbie freelancer reaches out to ask advice, I’d gladly help him/her!

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive world starts with becoming aware and acknowledging that each and everyone of us has his/her own identity, and that this means we have our personal bias and beliefs. Working with various people from different countries and cultures made me realize this. Thus, I learned to be open to differences.

With this guiding thought, I make sure to look at both sides of every situation, to respect each individual’s opinion, and to understand the perspective “from where they’re coming from.” Not everyone will always agree with me, especially with what I post on LinkedIn. But, I would respect their comments and suggestions without judgment nor hatred.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Be open to change. Don’t just accept it… embrace it!

 

Pamela Tan

Industry: Management Consulting
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About me: 

I’m an excellent team player, a reliable self-starter and one who is confident in making sure changes stick and transformation happens. One of my long-term passion is my side hustle of being a social entrepreneur. It helps me enjoy all my interests and values in one go: health, wellness, innovation, social media and giving back to the community. Two things I will never get tired of: Dreaming Big and Always Learning.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I influence by being me; by showing that our uniqueness is what makes us genuine and more relatable. I share it through my story, aligning with similar values I see in my feed and succeeding to the best of my potential so that others may see that the future is theirs if they want and work hard (smart) for it.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Normalise not feeling bad for putting yourself first, protecting your energy and prioritising your mental health.

 

Remy Bacani-Timbol

Industry: Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
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About me:

People would tell me that I am courageous, bold and kind.   I would say that I am true to myself, and to the values and principles that I believe in, I try to live by them daily.  I am not perfect and I am a work in progress.   I know being kind is being courageous and that I learn to listen and figure out all sides of the story to get different perspectives, but at the end of the day, I’ll let people know where I stand.   

I live every day knowing that I carry myself and the work I do with integrity, love and compassion. When people start throwing stones at me, I know that even if they don’t see the truth now, someday it will show up.  It may take years, but I keep the faith and let it be.  I leave it up to God to carry me throughout my happiest and darkest hours.   I live with a grateful heart and am satisfied with the kind of life I live today.   

A few days ago, I was appointed a CEO at PBO Global. I never dreamt of this role and never really mind the title because deep in my heart I know that I will continue to do what I know – to help people first. Then the business. Invest in building trust and credibility and opportunities will come. 

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I try to share stories hoping that someone may learn from them as I did.  I find ways how to give tips to recruiters or hiring managers offline to be less discriminating.  Some examples are job posting qualifications that read, ” with pleasing personality, at least 5’6″ in height, and single.”  I educate people in the workplace about unfairness in salaries. I can only speak about this when I am involved in creating the salary structures.    

I tell them that salaries are based on knowledge equity and role experience equity than age, gender, and affiliation.  I am also a strong advocate against ageism. If one is healthy, qualified, and possesses the behavior and skills one needs, then don’t hesitate to hire the candidate.    As a feminist, I would always call out discrimination against women, even if you are my boss.  I also educate women how to take care of themselves against sexism, harassment and abuse.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Women must be flexible to take on roles that challenge them. Rather than being scared, take  courses to learn something about to build their confidence.  Be assertive enough to ask for help and confident enough to know they can always bring their best work forward with love and compassion.  

Practice empathy by listening, and being objective. Find efforts to understand the context and where the person is coming from.  Always find opportunities to help without expecting anything in return. The last one is never settle for anything less. 

 

Rhonadale Florentino

Industry: Human Resources
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About me: 

I am a lifelong learner and have an innate natural curiosity. The unknown fascinates me and I try, as much as possible, to teach people to be curious and to always keep an inquisitive mind! I am also an avid believer in the power of the HR position. Unfortunately, here in the Philippines, the HR profession is generally not seen as a business partner but more of an administrative person in-charge of just the documentation.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I try to open the minds of those in my network about diversity, inclusivity, and fairness. By sharing my experience, coupled with tips and pieces of advice, I do hope I am able to inspire other people.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Do not be limited by what other people think of you. You have more power within your hands than you think.

 

Rosa Fernandez-Manalo

Industry: Human Resources
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About me: 

I have been working in the HR for over 25 years and gained experience from various industries. Started with an NGO, moved to the academe then consulting. Spent years in the hospitality industry and in manufacturing. Dabbled also in shared services, executive search, and now in IT. I enjoy the development side of HR – where I try to “fix” things, look at processes and how they can be improved further. I am wide-eyed with excitement when I am able to help others grow in their profession – by opening up opportunities to learn, pointing a new way, and the like.  I learned from one of my mentors the adage, “Leave the place better than you found it”. And I have led my professional life in that way ever since. 

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I share with others my experience and lessons I have learned. And in turn, listen and encourage, support them. 

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Women will always be challenged, more so because we are women – because our families rely on the women in the family for strength and guidance (“ilaw ng tahanan”) and this extends to the workplace. As we push on to be super women, remember to take time for self care – take a nap, read a book, go to the spa, do whatever it is that you enjoy and make you happy. Leave a place better than you found it – and that includes yourself 🙂     

 

Senibe Salve Labastida

Industry: Consulting and Staffing
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About me: 

I want to help our fellow kababayan land a stable job. I want to help, guide, and teach them how to start and grow their career to give back to the community and their family. I love to travel and meet new people while learning about their culture and how my skills can help them grow.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I directly coordinate with the business owners and decision-makers, so I refer candidates to them and tell them their strengths and how they can help in their growing business. I make sure that they’ll see the good side of the candidate, not just based on their resume. I am also transparent to the candidates about the company and the culture.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Just be yourself and always remember to take a BREAK. Take care of your mental health, learn how to say NO. Breath, relax, and smile!

 

Serely Alcaraz

Industry: Education & Training
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About me: 

#serelytheexplorer is a hashtag I have been using when I post travel photos and share my adventures (and misadventures too). Inspired by Dora the Explorer, I am truly an adventurer who will not hesitate to try something new. 

From skydiving in New Zealand to doing a bridge climb in Brisbane, Australia, from riding an elephant in India and riding a camel by the pyramids in Egypt, from riding a hot air balloon in Cappadocia, Turkey to hiking to Machu Picchu, life is meant to be lived and savored to the fullest, on the field and not in the stands.

With the pandemic restricting physical travel, I went for the next best thing – participating in virtual marathons, complete with medals and badges when I complete the adventure. When there’s a will, there’s a way! I would often challenge myself, there must be a better way! And i use this when I conduct creativity and innovation workshops as well as ownership and accountability sessions. “I am the master of my fate and the captain of my soul” (William Ernest Henley)

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) has been a “hot” topic the past couple of years and I’ve been asked to share my thoughts about the topic as well as participate in panel discussions. I am very fortunate that the nature of my work as a trainer-facilitator, keynote speaker, and mentor-coach allows me to use my voice and influence in this sphere. 

For me, it begins with creating awareness of our own strengths and limitations, our lenses and biases that colors the way that we see things. Once aware, then we can set out to be more mindful and help others be aware as well, then expand this to planning

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

We got this, fellow Filipino women! It is our time to shine and show the world that we are made of even sterner stuff, making us more agile, more adaptable, and more resilient. We just don’t bounce back, we bounce forward.

For the past two years, our roles as wives and mothers are intertwined with our roles in the workplace, and we have proven that it can be done. It is no longer work-life balance but work-life integration. We can bank on our innate ability to juggle multiple roles with multiple demands on our time and expertise, and still find that space to have our “me” time that will fuel us to become better versions of ourselves.

 

Sharon C. Manlangit

Industry: Banking & Finance
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About me: 

My passion is sharing the gospel (GOD’s good news) to people from all corners of the world. I strongly believe that the best way to change the world is to introduce Jesus to people who do not know Him yet, making Him attractive to all people, and inspiring them to become like Him.

Because, by becoming like Him in the way we deal with other people (especially in our workplace) misunderstandings and arguments could be avoided. Peace and unity will rule the day, for as the bible says: “A house divided by itself cannot stand.”

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I use my influence by letting other people know that every one, regardless of race, color, and social status, is welcome in the Kingdom of GOD. No matter the background or past of a person, everyone can receive the free gift of GOD’s salvation and that no person is beyond the grace of GOD.

I encourage people to be that “breath of fresh air” in this squalid and polluted society.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

My best advice for all the Filipino women is simple: to anchor their faith firmly on Christ because at the end of the day, only those that are deeply-rooted will survive the storm. The only way to thrive during these uncertain times is to hold on to something [or should I say SOMEONE] that is stable and unchanging, and that is Christ.

 

Sheena Yap Chan

Industry: Podcast
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About me: 

I love creating a stronger voice for Asian women. Too long we have been defined by the negative stereotypes we go through. I want Asian women to realize that they are strong, powerful and brave.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

I share stories through my podcast The Tao of Self Confidence and my book called Asian Women Who Boss UP

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Have the confidence to make the first move.

 

Sheila Lobien

Industry: Real Estate
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About me: 

Being one of only very few women executives in the male-dominated world of Philippine real estate consulting, I use my influence to empower other women to take up space and break the glass ceiling. I hope that my past programs, CSR initiatives, sponsorships, and projects as Women in Business Committee chairperson of the ECCP have helped many women entrepreneurs dream bigger and aspire higher. After recently becoming a founding Director of The Global Woman Club Philippines, it only fueled me even more to continue what I have started.

I take pleasure in sharing my knowledge, insights, and life through public speaking and speaking engagements that have informed, taught, inspired, and motivated not only the working women throughout the country but also other thought leaders, the Philippines’ top government officials, and foreign investors.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Being one of only very few women executives in the male-dominated world of Philippine real estate consulting, I use my influence to empower other women to take up space and break the glass ceiling. I hope that my past programs, CSR initiatives, sponsorships, and projects as Women in Business Committee chairperson of the ECCP have helped many women entrepreneurs dream bigger and aspire higher. After recently becoming a founding Director of The Global Woman Club Philippines, it only fueled me even more to continue what I have started.

I take pleasure in sharing my knowledge, insights, and life through public speaking and speaking engagements that have informed, taught, inspired, and motivated not only the working women throughout the country but also other thought leaders, the Philippines’ top government officials, and foreign investors.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

For Filipino women from different walks of life and various industries, let us not let the gender norms hinder us from achieving our dreams and goals in this “new normal.” As women, we have the power and capability to achieve what we want, now more than ever. Always remember: the first Olympic gold for the Philippines was from a Filipina!

In unprecedented times like this, let us understand that we are all trying to do what is best for our families and companies to ensure we all survive and thrive. It is vital to maintain a positive attitude, provide inspiration to our colleagues, friends, and families, and lay the foundation for the economic rebound so we will be able to take advantage of the recovery.

The “new normal” has challenges and opportunities. Let us focus on the opportunities, especially those business opportunities created by the two years of pandemic: online and internet-based businesses, neighborhood buy-and-sell activities and the proliferation of high-quality group chats for linkages and business transactions are some of the opportunities Filipino women realized were possible even when camped inside their homes due to lockdowns. At LRG, we also realized that the same internet-based opportunities and long-cherished business relationships helped us receive enquiries, close deals and survive as a company during the pandemic.

 

Sheryl Mondares

Industry: Information Technology
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About me: 

For the past 8 years, I’ve been working as a Senior Business Development for Collabera Philippines and recently promoted as Associate Director for Sales. 

I have some background in doing Business Development and Account Management , with a degree of AB Mass Communication. What really got me into the field, when I started as a Sales Agent during my engagement with one of the local Staffing Company in the Philippines  (Expercs Inc.) and assigned to a Telecom Company (Globe Telecom). Because of hard work and perseverance, the company that I am working with offered me an internal position to handle and manage different accounts. Throughout my career, I’ve always been good with people and client management. 

Moving forward, I hope to expand my experience across different industries. Helping clients to increase their maturity  and increasing set of clients on innovating around post-digital technologies. 

Being part of the 100 Most Influential Filipino Women in LinkedIn, I value the opportunity to be a voice for women, promoting women’s sense of self-worth, and their right to influence social change for themselves and others.

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

Acustom one’s style of speech, appearance, behavior, and expression in ways that will optimize the comfort of others in exchange for fair treatment, quality service, and employment opportunities.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

With a brave heart amidst the uncertainties of the future, let us hold on to each other. Stay strong and positive.

 

Vida Santos-Arciaga

Industry: End-to-end HR services, research, education and training
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About me: 

My story is my name itself. Vida means life and it started on a high note and should be told. I am a mother and a wife. As a mother of an only child, I have adopted many into our family and continue to take care of children. As a wife, I perform my duties at home next to my husband and not let my achievements in career or education interfere with marriage. I remain behind and next to the father of our family. 

I strongly believe that education is one of the keys to eradicate poverty because my own story taught me that. I help many deserving children to get education and rise from poverty. For me there is no substitute for hard work. As a young sampaguita girl and a child laborer from Lingayen, Pangasinan, I achieved my education through scholarships. I have long been working silently on my endeavors to send young people to school even when I was not yet earning well. I believe in divine intervention but we should work hard. 

Faith without work means nothing. We can not wait for miracles and hope that something good or great will happen in our lives.

As HR practitioner and people leader, I believe that HR is not a mere support role. I played critical and pivotal roles in all my organizations being a business partner and business player. All the companies and organizations I served in the past have a “”Touch of Vida”” that remains until this time.

Beyond my work and profession, I am a self-made chef (with my signature lutong-bahay specialties), artist/painter, fashion designer (for women of all shapes and ages),  employability champion, change and transformation leader, women empowerment champion, a life coach and a cancer survivor. 

And on that note, I have continuing projects to support cancer patients through my fashion design and artworks on top of sharing my own story as a cancer warrior and survivor. Note : Please check my ongoing digital painting exhibit at the Medical City’s Augusto P. Sarmiento Cancer Institute. 

How do you use your influence to create a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive?

All my decisions and solutions to problems in my previous companies and in all the organizations I help and support, specially in my current own business, I have been very consistent about equal opportunity employment, upholding human rights and labor rights while also protecting and safeguarding the rights and prerogatives of business, and having a global mindset.

To talk about diversity and inclusion and not champion employee participation in problem solving and decision making is like a clown’s show. All employees in my previous organizations can attest to that through their experience under my leadership. I am known for my creative and unique people practices especially in the agribusiness industry (where I worked for 10 years) and the IT-BPM sector where I devoted almost 15 years of my life) and significantly grew my company’s businesses. 

My personal aspiration has turned into my own company’s mission and vision – and that is to help individuals become successful and happy.

What’s your best advice for Filipino women to thrive in the new normal?

Women play diverse roles in society and are no longer confined in the family and at home. We should know our worth and be the first to believe that we can do a lot to make our world a better place by touching lives and making a difference. 

There is no simple or little role for us, thus, we should lead and/or follow when called upon. And when everyone has forgotten that the world should have a heart and conscience, we should stand firmly and be that heart and conscience for the sake of humanity.

 

The Methodology

To find and recognize 100 most influential Filipino women on LinkedIn, Gina and I asked our LinkedIn network to nominate Filipino women that they look up to and that they also follow on LinkedIn. 

This year, we have received 359 nominees from various industries. From that list, 234 qualified. We then came up with the shortlist of the 100 women based on the following criteria: 

• Has at least 500 followers
• Must be a Filipino woman
• Currently located in the Philippines or outside of the country
• Should be active on LinkedIn in the last 90 days (as of the time the team validates nominations)

The ranking from 1 to 15 is based on the number of nominations that each of them has received. The rest of the list was based on the number of followers, and are presented in alphabetical order.

Acknowledgment

To all the women who made this project a success, thanks so much!  Rianne de los Reyes, Joana Ericka Simon, and Marra Malonzo of Connected Women; and Bless Baluyot of VB Consulting. And of course, thanks so much to Gina Romero, for this meaningful collaboration! 

I’m also grateful to all the women who participated in this initiative and to all who took the time to nominate Filipino women they look up to and they follow on LinkedIn. 

A note from Gina Romero

A huge thanks to Virginia and her team for partnering with Connected Women on this project.

Virginia pioneered the original list of “Top 47 Filipino Professionals On LinkedIn” in 2018, and the “Top 100 Filipinos To Follow On LinkedIn For Inspiration And Learning” in 2019 with Marketing in Asia.

I also want to add that Virginia herself has 43,271 followers on LinkedIn and would have easily made the top of the list if she had been included.

To all the ladies on the list, congratulations!