The Philippines is strengthening its reputation as a country for the progress of gender equality, especially in traditionally male-dominated industries, such as filmmaking.

An inspiring speaker, screenwriter and filmmaker with a healthy dose of humour, Sher Bautista spoke with a passion that felt deeply rooted in personal experience, which she shared at the Inspiring Women In STEAM With A SPACE Manila And BPW Makati event. The event was aimed at celebrating women in STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.

Sher spoke alongside Stephanie Sy, founder, and CEO of Thinking Machines Data Science, and Reinabelle Reyes Ph.D., Filipina scientist, writer, teacher, and public speaker. 

What was so unique about Sher’s talk was her drive and excitement in encouraging the audience very specifically about embracing their true self and doing work they loved, regardless of whether an industry was saturated by men or not.

It’s Never Too Late To Pursue A New Career

When Sher was 28, she quit her job, took her savings and joined film school. There were multiple times afterwards that she felt like giving up, but she didn’t. She got discouraged but she didn’t quit; she got tired and kept going; she got turned down here and there, yet persevered.

“Don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t, quit. Don’t quit. Don’t!” Sher exclaimed. She didn’t listen to those who said she should do it one way or another. She ignored that Hollywood’s film industry was largely one dominated by men. Sher did it her way, she was true to herself and she succeeded.

One of Sher’s passion projects in the making is the Strong Girls Initiative which she is currently shooting with two other female filmmakers. The documentary aims to empower young girls by drawing attention to the negative messages that we are exposed to from a young age. She reiterated that women don’t have to follow what society or culture says is acceptable, or lady-like. We don’t have to tiptoe around our male counterparts so we don’t come off as too pushy or too demanding. We don’t have to dress any certain way or seek someone else’s approval for our dreams. “Don’t let anyone tell you you’re not enough!”

Filmmaking In The Philippines

Another strong point Sher made was that if she had to choose between working in the film industry in America or the Philippines, she would hands down stick to the rising film industry of her home country. Not only is it growing, and gaining credit worldwide, it has also proven far more successful for women screenwriters, producers and directors.

Once again, the Philippines is moving forward and upward in yet another industry, strengthening its reputation as a country for the progress of gender equality.

As a final note in her talk, Sher encouraged the ladies, “Never give up; you have more to share. There is a reason you’ve gone through what you’ve experienced!”

Listen to Sher’s story in its entirety and be inspired!