DISRUPT 5.0. FILIPINA WOMEN: LEADING WITH INTERSECTIONALITY

Foreword
Marily Mondejar

Preface
Francis Tsang

Introduction
Maria Beebe, Ph.D.

Filipina Women Leaders: Disrupting Stereotypes
Marily Mondejar

In Filipina Women Leaders: Disrupting Stereotypes, Marily Mondejar boldly showcases how Filipina women shatter societal expectations through dynamic, intersectional leadership. Drawing on the rich experiences shaped by their identities—gender, ethnicity, class—these women break free from limiting norms to lead with power and purpose. As Kimberlé Crenshaw’s concept of intersectionality reveals, Filipina women face unique and complex layers of privilege and oppression, both in the Philippines and around the globe.
- Susie Quesada, President, Ramar Foods, FWN President (2013-2018)

crucibles

I Am Enough
Charina Amunategui, MBA

“No,” reverberated through her mind, a chorus of fear and caution, limiting Charina’s boundless curiosity. As Charina shares her leadership journey from the haphazard streets of Tondo, Manila, to the bustling cityscape of Toronto, Canada, and New York City, she reflects on the obstacles she overcame. The countless “nos” she whispered to herself, the self-doubt that gnawed at her dreams, and the anxiety disorder that clouded her path—these were the battles she fought. Yet, from doubting her place in the world of finance, wondering what business a girl from Tondo had in the high-stakes streets of New York City, to ultimately embracing her ambitions and taking charge of her leadership journey, Charina’s narrative is one of resilience and triumph over self-imposed limitations, proving she is more than enough.
- Edith Winterhalter, Ed.D.California State University, Northridge

Wandering Off the Plantation:
How racism and gender bias show up as incivility
Sofia Aragon, JD, BSN, RN, FAAN

The phrase “Grow Where You Are Planted” carries profound meaning in Sofia Aragon’s journey. Sofia is a Filipina immigrant navigating the complexities of race, gender, and leadership in public policy and nursing. From a young age, Sofia was acutely aware of the challenges she would face as both a minority and a woman. This realization did not deter her but rather fueled her determination to succeed. As she advanced in her career, Sofia found herself in leadership circles where she was often one of the few Filipinas or the only Filipina, confronting both racial and gender biases. Despite these obstacles, she remained grounded in her cultural heritage and the family tradition of nursing, which was always her home base.
- Velma Veloria, Former Washington State Representative, First Filipina elected to a state legislature in the continental United States

Mastering the Mind:
Harnessing Inner Power to Overcome Adversity
Maria Santos Greaves

This narrative offers a profound exploration of the intricate relationship between the mind, emotions, and life experiences, particularly in the context of clinical depression. The narrative is rooted in the personal experiences of the author, who navigates through the complexities of mental health challenges exacerbated by significant life changes, such as relocating to a new country and facing professional setbacks. The narrative is a compelling testament to the strength of the human spirit, particularly within the context of the Filipina experience. Through sharing this journey, Maria Greaves offers hope and inspiration to others facing similar challenges, underscoring the enduring power of the mind when guided by faith and love.
- Thelma Boac, Member, Board of Trustees at Berryessa Union School District

Navigating the Labyrinth of Race and Gender In Japan
Isabelita T. Manalastas-Watanabe

Ihave known Lita since we were both Japanese Ministry of Education scholars here in Japan. We became very good friends, sharing a common bond of being sorority sisters at the University of the Philippines and being students in the Japanese education system, grappling with the Japanese language. Although Lita and I had totally different fields of study, we became close by sharing each other’s joys, struggles and triumphs. I have seen Lita rise from struggling student to director of the ASEAN-Japan Centre in Tokyo, and then head of the Philippine National Bank Tokyo Branch. Despite all that she has attained professionally, she has also had personal problems. She has fought hard and won, showing that she is indeed a true warrior, battle-hardened and triumphant.
- Ms. Leith Casel-Schut, Linguist

By Grace, through Grace
Grace Jamon

Amazing Grace. That was my monicker for this childhood BFF of mine from the homeland. I’ve never ceased to be amazed by Grace—her capacity to draw people of all walks of life to her, navigate spaces both humble and exalted, cause sworn enemies to rally together for a cause she champions, and doing all she does with ease, confidence, and—true to her name—grace. In every sense of the word, she is a natural—with absolutely no affectation or self-consciousness. Quite apart from her myriad professional talents, I see this as her most precious gift to the world: the uncolonized indigenous loob that’s able to just be—able to connect with anyone and everyone, to speak what is truly in the heart, extremely expansive and generous (sometimes to a fault!)—what we mean by magandang loob or beautiful Self.
- S. Lily Mendoza, Professor, Oakland University; Executive Director, Center for Babaylan Studies

CHAMPIONS

People Giving Hope: Ten PGH Champions during COVID-19
Regina Berba, MD, MSC

Dr. Regina Berba offers a compelling story about PEOPLE GIVING HOPE and HEALING, about ten Filipino women champions at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) during the COVID-19 crisis. As one of the ten, Regina recounts the experiences of doctors and nurses, who became the heart of the hospital’s response. PGH, a 1,500-bed hospital known as a lifeline for the nation’s poorest, was suddenly designated a COVID-19 referral center, a role it had never anticipated. “People Giving Hope “ is more than a story of a hospital and its staff during the pandemic; it is a narrative that highlights the power of intersectionality, showing how diverse identities and experiences can come together to create a powerful force for change.
- Liberty Fajutrao, MD MSCE, Stockholm, Sweden

Overcoming “JUST”: Being Underestimated is a Superpower
Kristine Custodio Suero, ACP

A poignant reminder that love is central to the most significant social justice movements in our time, author Kristine Custodio Suero shares her journey to her most important work in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Fearlessly and fiercely taking up space and holding space in her leadership roles while facing exclusion, othering, and flat-out denigration, this reflection on the precipice of her fifth decade of life provides hope for a world steeped in justice and equity and a return to Joie de vivre.
- Anne S. Bautista, Esq., Legal Support and Strategy Director, Casa Cornelia Law Center

From Harried Child to Resilient Leader
Ellen Samson, CDP, CADDCT, CMDCP

From the moment I met her, I knew she was extraordinary. Her journey of sacrifice, triumph, and unshakable faith has inspired me and stands as proof of what’s possible when a woman rises above her challenges. As the eldest in her family, she bore heavy responsibilities early in life. Yet, she carried them with grace, shaped by cultural and gender expectations that would have crushed many. She turned her success into advocacy, becoming a fierce champion for dementia care and a leader among Filipino-American entrepreneurs. Her journey, from a girl who sacrificed her childhood to a woman at the forefront of business and advocacy, is nothing short of inspiring.
- Janice JimenezCEO, Regal Group of Companies and Ellen Samson’s Ride or Die

Identity, Law & Justice
Judge Rohanee Zapanta

A piece of clothing. An office gadget. A kiss from Lola. Sometimes, the simplest things we overlook hold the most profound meaning, shaping how we see the world. There’s a rare talent in recognizing their value—a quiet superpower that allows us to see beyond the surface and understand how they fit into the bigger picture. This is the nuanced work of those who serve in the justice system. For Judge Zapanta, these seemingly simple moments become touchstones of her identity, grounding her professional commitment to upholding the U.S. Constitution. Reflecting on her journey to the bench, she reminds us that true strength comes from owning and embracing every aspect of who we are.
- Lory Jarvina, Captain (Retired), Military Intelligence Officer, United States Army, Chief of Operations, Cyber Security, Department of Defense

glocal

The King and I
Myla Arceno, MCSP

Growing up as a Filipina in the small town Pulupandan, Myla’s journey was shaped by the rich tapestry of cultural heritage, gender expectations, and the immigrant experience. These intersecting identities became the foundation of her resilience and the lens through which she approached leadership. As a Filipina immigrant in the UK, she encountered both overt and subtle challenges in navigating a predominantly white, male-dominated sphere. As the first Filipina women elected public officials, we carry significant responsibilities to be the best and to ensure the next generation is in the pipeline. Public service is my passion; Myla certainly has it in her heart.
- Mayor Juslyn Manalo, Daly City, California, U.S.A.

Fractals: Recursive, Non-linear, and Ever-changing.
Maria A. Beebe, PhD

Dr. Maria’s life unfolds like a fractal, with each phase reflecting interconnected experiences that shape her identity and mission. As a Filipina, educator, and international development advisor, her journey spans diverse cultural and geographical landscapes—from the Philippines to Africa to Afghanistan—each adding depth to her understanding of herself and the world. The Kabul experience, with its moments of fear, resilience, and determination, echoes being born in Zamboanga and growing up in the Philippines, where the intersections of colonial history, gender, and ethnic identity influenced her path. Her narrative is not linear but a dynamic blend of past and present, personal and political, much like the fractal metaphor suggests.
- Parwana Paikan, Former Deputy Head of Mission, Afghanistan Embassy, Paris, France

Finding Filipina, Embodying Intsik: -Isms of Intersectionality
Denise Viardo Koh, BSC, MD, CCFP, MPH, FRCPC, ACBOM

“So, what kind of Asian are you, anyway?” “But where are you really from?” “You don’t look Filipino.” These are questions I find myself answering almost daily, navigating the need to explain my Chinese last name while asserting my Filipino identity. In this chapter, Dr. Koh shares the experience of being a Chinese Filipina as a second-generation Canadian and how this identity has shaped her journey to becoming a physician—for better or for worse. She recounts her candid path from trying to assimilate to eventually embracing and celebrating her Chinese Filipino heritage. Ultimately, no matter what society dictates, it is up to us to define who we are, where we’re headed, and how we’ll navigate our way forward.
- Dr. Katrina Leong, Lecturer, Department of Family Medicine, University of Manitoba

Being an Overseas Fabulous Pinay
Donna Avellana Künzler

Donna explores her unexpected journey of moving abroad despite initially being skeptical of living overseas. What began as a curiosity-driven decision evolved into a thriving life as a global Filipina, now known as an “Overseas Fabulous Pinay.” Through her leadership journey, Donna shares six key learnings that have shaped her identity and success: Making unconventional choices; Embracing the teacher mindset; Learning how to pivot and bring value; Finding the courage to ask questions; Using the power of self-reflection; and Discovering her purpose and gaining clarity on how to be of service for the greater good. Donna illustrates a path of empowerment, resilience, and purposeful living, making this chapter a valuable guide for anyone seeking to thrive internationally.
- Pamela Gotangco, CEO and Founder of PamPinay

Navigating Dual Worlds:
A Filipina Leader’s Journey of Resilience and Creativity
Marla De Castro Rausch

Marla De Castro-Rausch is unassuming, but underneath that exterior is a socially skilled introvert who yields effective influence in the animation and gaming multiverse. She exemplifies the transformative power of embracing dual identities, not in the likes of shapeshifters, but turning dueling worlds into negotiated worlds. Marla’s journey is marked by key learnings highlighting her sensible ability to blend, take risks, and transcend cultural boundaries: embracing unconventional choices, building a new foundation, balancing cultural identities, finding confidence in leadership, integrating Western and Filipino values, and redefining success.
- Carmina Aldana, Founder and Executive Director, The Neurosurgery Outreach Foundation, Inc.

legacies

Leading with Purpose:
Shaping a More Just and Equitable Future
Mary Joy Canon Abaquin, ED.D

Mary Joy Canon Abaquin’s journey exemplifies purposeful leadership shaped by the intersection of faith, gender, culture, and education. Her narrative reflects her identity as a woman, educator, and changemaker. At the core of her leadership is the belief that education is a tool for equity, empowering marginalized communities. By introducing the Multiple Intelligences framework to the Philippines and advocating for inclusive, student-centered learning, Mary Joy has demonstrated her commitment to a more just and equitable world, inspiring future generations of educators and leaders.
- Cynthia Rapaido, Ed.D., K-12 Educational Leader and Educator, Educational Leadership Consultant

What Will My Mother Say?
Rhodora Palomar Fresnedi

“To be beautiful is to have experienced life.” - Rhodora
I have told Rhodora that she should trademark her words. It is a profound yet simple statement that we can internalize. In this chapter, she connects with readers in a warm, personal way without sacrificing the integrity of her message. There’s more to savor between the words of this poetic author. Her collection of wisdom on leadership from distinct women in her life, especially her late mother, is greater than the sum of their stories, which she gladly shares with the next generation. Like the good friend that she is, Rhodora’s chapter is a joyful, intelligent, thoughtful, and inspiring read.
- Carmina Aldana, Founder and Executive Director, The Neurosurgery Outreach Foundation, Inc.

Been There – Done That!
Atty. Lorna Patajo Kapunan

I’ve known Lorna for over 40 years, our friendship beginning in 1989 as charter members of Zonta Club of Makati-Ayala. Her mastery of parliamentary procedures impressed our senior Zontians. We worked on many projects, including “Adopt-a-Cop,” which fostered strong ties between residents and police, decreasing crime in Barangay Pio del Pilar. Lorna also proposed the first women’s desk in the precinct, and JICA later sent the precinct commander to Japan for training. Lorna’s work as a consummate lawyer to a sterling list of corporate clients is well known. She is a tough, fearless litigator and legal practitioner, unwavering in her pursuit of truth and fairness. But to me, she’s also a fun, loving, down-to-earth friend and ally—a true woman for others.
- Marily Orosa, Founder/President of Studio 5

Lead Like the Bamboo
Rosemarie Rafael

Like the bamboo that spends years developing its roots before growing rapidly, Rosemarie’s success in leadership has required a significant investment of time and effort. She has worked hard to make it happen, consistently developing her skills, building relationships, and refining strategies to achieve long-term success. Ut (Rosemarie’s nickname) excels not only with her team but also in the friendships she cultivates. Though she is often the busiest person in the world, with a mere 24 hours in a day never enough for her work, she consistently makes time to nurture our friendship. This is the essence of who Ut is—she dedicates every minute to productivity, whether it’s for her professional pursuits or for fostering meaningful friendships.
- Ida Manalo Joseph, Co-owner, Ralph’s Wine and Spirits

Fifty Years of Pivots and Synergies
Nora Kakilala Terrado

In her inspiring narrative, Noya invites us to reminisce with her as she shares parts of her life and career. I am fortunate to have been part of her life, having worked with her in the software association and collaborated in women’s initiatives during her time in government. But I am most blessed to be her friend, sharing meaningful experiences with our group of software industry lady friends, who we call the Wopees. Noya’s generosity is evident in her narrative and we can all learn much from what she has shared.
- Ito Gruet, IT Entrepreneur and Co-Founder, Computer Professionals Inc.

Life Unnoticed: Legacy Built
Maria Benel Corazon G. Se, CPA

What a beautiful tribute to the author’s mother! I enjoyed the theme of the “unsung” heroine and extracting the extraordinary out of an untold story. Stories such as these honor women who have paved the path for so many of us to trailblaze, pioneer, and kick down doors previously slammed in our faces and who center women who persevered during times when equal rights were still a pipedream for so many. Indeed, we are in changing times when equity is demanded by an ever-increasing chorus of justice-centered voices.
- Kristine Custodio Suero, Vice Chair/Commissioner, County of San Diego Commission on the Status of Women and Girls

FWN LIFETIME MEMBERS UPDATES FOR D5.0

Angelica Berrie

Angelica Berrie shares her journey as a Filipino American who embraced Judaism, reflecting on the challenges of being Jewish in the aftermath of the October 7, 2023, HAMAS attack on Israel. She highlights the heroism of Camille Jesalva, a Filipina caregiver in Israel, who saved lives during the attack and was honored by the Filipina Women’s Network.

As president of the Russell Berrie Foundation, Berrie suspended funding to Columbia University due to rising anti-Semitism, a decision she compared to Queen Esther’s bravery in defending her people. Despite global hate, she remains dedicated to building interfaith bridges and supporting changemakers, including Palestinian beekeepers and advocates for peace in Israel.

Berrie calls on the Filipina Women’s Network and others to take a stand for democracy, peace, women’s rights, and freedom, inspiring action to create positive change in the face of adversity.

Fe Odsigue Punzalan

Fe Punzalan’s journey from selling peanut brittle as a child in Antique, Philippines, to becoming a nurse, entrepreneur, and philanthropist exemplifies resilience and determination. Overcoming poverty and discrimination as a Filipina immigrant in the U.S., she built a successful career in nursing before founding award-winning residential care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Her entrepreneurial success was deeply rooted in empathy and a commitment to quality care, earning her multiple accolades, including recognition as one of the 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the World. Dedicated to giving back, she has helped others establish care facilities and remains active in her community. Fe attributes her achievements to hard work, cultural pride, and the unwavering support of her late husband, German, and their daughters.

Loida Nicolas Lewis

Loida Nicolas Lewis, Chair and CEO of TLC Beatrice, LLC, broke barriers as a Filipina lawyer and business leader. The first Filipino woman to pass the New York bar without U.S. law school, she fought and won a landmark discrimination case, later co-authoring the bestselling How to Get a Green Card.

In 1994, she became CEO of TLC Beatrice, a $2 billion multinational company, after her husband’s passing, navigating leadership as an Asian woman in a male-dominated field. Her memoir, Why Should Guys Have All the Fun?, celebrates her journey.

Loida chairs the Reginald F. Lewis Foundation, supporting institutions like Harvard and the National Museum of African American History. She advocates for marginalized communities through organizations she co-founded, such as the Asian American Legal Defense Fund and US Pinoys for Good Governance. A polyglot and proud family woman, Loida exemplifies leadership, resilience, and advocacy.

Benel Se Liban and Cris Liban

Benel Se Liban and Cris Liban, co-authors of A Life That Matters from Disrupt 2.0, reflect on a decade of growth, resilience, and meaningful achievements. Despite personal losses during the pandemic, they celebrate life’s fleeting moments through global travels and cherish the lessons learned from diverse communities.

Their entrepreneurial journey flourished with the establishment of JBC Group, LLC, which grew into a global consulting network guided by their faith, symbolized in “Just Be Christ.” Their servant leadership extends to nonprofits like the International Society of Filipinos in Finance and Accounting and Engineer Action Rising, empowering others through mentorship and scholarships.

Their family milestones include JP’s advanced engineering degree and Cris’ leadership as a Chief Sustainability Officer. Marking their Silver Wedding Anniversary, they’ve built homes in Los Angeles, New York, and the Philippines, creating timeless memories rooted in faith, family, and community.

Committed to shaping future generations, Benel and Cris hope their legacy inspires others to lead with purpose, building a world where every life matters.

Colonel Shirley Raguindin

Colonel Shirley Raguindin has dedicated her career to advancing diversity, inclusion, and intersectional leadership within the U.S. military and Federal Government. As Director of Military Equal Opportunity at the Pentagon, she has shaped transformational policies impacting millions of service members, ensuring inclusivity and operational readiness.

Her tenure as Chief Diversity and Inclusion Advisor for the National Guard Bureau allowed her to champion representation and dismantle systemic inequalities across a predominantly male institution. A graduate of Yale’s Global Executive Leadership Program, Shirley blends cultural competence, mentorship, and advocacy to inspire the next generation of leaders.

Through resilience and perseverance, she has redefined leadership standards, leveraging her Filipina identity to overcome barriers. Shirley’s enduring legacy exemplifies the power of intersectionality and commitment to creating a more equitable future for all.

Sonia T. Delen

Sonia Delen’s life is a tapestry of intersecting roles: Filipina-American immigrant, mother, corporate leader, advocate, and cultural ambassador. Migrating to the U.S. as a single mother in 1982, she raised her son David, who is blind and hearing-impaired, which inspired her lifelong advocacy for children with disabilities. Rising to senior leadership in corporate America, she became the highest-ranking Filipina in Bank of America’s Global Leasing division, breaking barriers in a male-dominated field.

Sonia’s advocacy extends to healthcare equity, cultural preservation, and community service. As chairperson of the Apl.de.ap Foundation International, she spearheads initiatives to combat preventable blindness in the Philippines. She co-founded the Filipino Food Movement, promoting Filipino cuisine globally, and serves as an executive producer for films that celebrate Filipino culture and advocate for marginalized communities.

Honored with awards like the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from President Biden, Sonia’s leadership inspires others to embrace their identities and create meaningful change. Proud of her family’s achievements, she continues to lead with purpose, blending her passions for service, culture, and community.

Susie Quesada

Over the past five years, Susie Quesada has navigated significant professional achievements and personal growth, shaped by her commitment to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability. As the President and CEO of Ramar Foods, she has led the company through challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and driven expansion into domestic and international markets. Her focus on sustainability has led to implementing green initiatives, earning industry recognition and aligning with consumer values.

Quesada’s leadership is deeply rooted in intersectionality, as a Filipina-American woman in a male-dominated industry. She has fostered inclusivity at Ramar Foods, championed diversity in the broader business world, and supported education through the Ramar Scholarship Foundation. She is also an advocate for underrepresented groups, mentoring young professionals and influencing policies that promote work-life integration.

On a personal level, Quesada has prioritized mental and physical well-being, embraced work-life balance, and mentored others, finding inspiration in reciprocal learning. She has integrated her professional and personal growth by addressing employees' challenges with caregiving responsibilities and promoting flexible policies.

FWN AMBASSADOR REPORTS

A Mosaic of Filipina Women DISRUPT the Status Quo in Canada
Rosary Escaño
Canada Ambassador (2022-2024)

NEW FWN CANADA MEMBERS The FWN Summit 2023 in Prague, Czech Republic awarded and welcomed 3 Filipino- Canadians as new FWN members:

Dr. Denise Koh from Manitoba: Public Health/Occupational Medicine specialist, hypnotherapist, life coach, motivational speaker, mentor, social justice advocate, and leader in the ethnocultural community. Dr. Denise founded MeResRX, created the MedResRX Hypnotherapy App, and co- authored two book collaborations (Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Canada’s Family Doctor Crisis)
Consul Connie Lacson from Nova Scotia: Philippine Consul ad honorem to Nova Scotia, with oversight to New Brunswick. She holds a special place in the hearts of more than 15,000 Filipino immigrants in Atlantic Canada, with her most notable achievement having a pivotal role in the credential recognition of Philippine-educated nurses in Nova Scotia.
Jennifer Mah from Alberta: Dean for the Faculty of Health Studies at NorQuest College. She led the Practical Nurse Program through tremendous growth, the development of over 20 programs, a new Provincial Health Care Aide Curriculum, building the first award-winning virtual reality medication administration, developing initiatives in China, the Philippines, and Jamaica and securing a $12.8M grant.

FWN CANADA ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION

The FWN Canada Roundtable Discussion, held during Women’s Month of 2023, brought together eight members of the Filipina Women’s Network (FWN) to share their insights and experiences regarding the significance of being recognized as one of the Most Influential Filipina Women in the World, representing Canada. This material continues to serve as an introduction to the Filipina Women’s Network, highlighting the award’s importance and its impact on empowering Filipina trailblazers.

DISRUPT 4.0 BOOK LAUNCH

The Disrupt 4.0 Book Launch and Disrupt Series promotions in August 2023 drew around 90 dynamic Filipina women and supportive male allies to the Philippine Consulate General in Toronto for an inspiring evening celebrating powerful Filipina narratives. Attendees were immersed in a vibrant atmosphere of storytelling, networking, and engaging activities that fostered connections across generations.

2024 FWN CANADA EVENTS

She Matters: Prioritizing Women’s Health and Wellbeing will gather Filipina women who would like to participate in a get-together and open discussion on pressing women’s health issues in October, timing it during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Headlining this will be FWN members who are in the healthcare industry sharing their expertise and insights, together with guests who will share their survival stories and experiences.

She Connects: An Evening of Empowerment and Inspiring Conversations in November will gather Filipina women and FWN Members over speed networking, a woman leader speaker to discuss resilience and empowerment, a panel discussion to career challenges, work-life balance and leadership with Q&A session and participants sharing. Networking break and sharing of personal stories, lessons learned, and fostering a sense of community.

Strengthening Global Filipina Leadership:
A Report on Community Building, Advocacy, and International Collaboration as the Philippine Ambassador of the Filipina Women’s Network
Mary Joy Canon Abaquin
Philippine Ambassador (2022-2024)

I have had the privilege of promoting FWN’s mission and vision, extending support to FWN Sisters beyond the geographical boundaries of the Philippines, as we support the intersectionalities of the advocacies of Philippine-based FWN Sisters and Global FWN Sisters who come home to the Philippines, to share their initiatives and aspirations.

FWN DISRUPTing Philippines, February 16, 2023, Marriot Hotel

The FWN DISRUPT Movement comes home to the Philippines as 16 authors of DISRUPT 4.0 and guest authors from DISRUPT 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 join forces for an afternoon of sharing stories of Pinay Power: Liberation, Transformation, and Change. It was my privilege to host the fun format of round theater as we gave women the spotlight in the ballroom to read from their chapters. It was a full house of authors who moved the audience from teary-eyed to laughing their eyes out with their stories.

FWN DISRUPTing Manila: Mayor Honey Lacuna Hosts Binondo Food Crawl, March 2, 2023

32 FWN Sisters, learned about the streets of Manila, its historic landmarks, and most of all experienced the famous Binondo Food Crawl. The famous saying that the way to a man’s heart is through the stomach resounded to FWN Sisters as bonding, stories, laughter, and a renewed appreciation for Filipino history and culture became a shared experience.

FWN New Year 2024 Pinay Global Pinay Power, Marriot Hotel, January 11, 2024

FWN Sisters open a New Year with the Power of Miracles and Courageous Intentions. In partnership with Megaworld, FWN Sisters donned their hats and fascinators for an Unstoppable 2024: Global Pinay Power Tea at Marriot Hotel Manila.

FWN Sisterhood Beyond Borders: Supporting Global Pitches, INTERSECTIONALITY, and DISRUPTIONS

There have been many informal gatherings, community-building activities, and opportunities to support each other’s work and advocacies. I want to share some key initiatives that were supported through the FWN Philippine Ambassador position:

a. DISRUPTing Benguet, October 6, 2023, Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Book Launch of the 4th Filipina Leadership Series Book, Maria Beebee.

b. FWN Supports I.D.E.A.(Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Anti-Discrimination), February 9, 2024, Julyan’s Cafe, Makati.

c. DISRUPTing Philippine Wines and Coffee - February 22, 2024, Olive Rose, The Farmhouse Table, Manila

d. Celebrating Women’s Month with FWN Featured Artist in the National Museum, March, 22, 2024, National Museum Manila.

e. FWN Femtors at the Youth Innovation Challenge, April 13, 2024, Manila

f. FWN Reception for Minister Rechie Valdez, MP, Minister of Small Business, July 21, 2024, Manila Peninsula, Makati

Empowering Filipina Leadership: Disrupting the Status Quo,
Amplifying Voices, and Protecting the Environment
Edith Winterhalter
Southern California Ambassador 2023-2024

Over the past two years, I’ve had the privilege of leading activities that reflect these values, shaping impactful experiences that elevate Filipina leadership and build community. Here are four memorable events that have embodied this mission.

FWN Goes to the Beach: Santa Monica Beach Clean-Up, a Collective Stand for Our Environment (August 12,2023)

On August 12, 2023, we gathered on the shores of Santa Monica with a team of 8 committed FWN volunteers for a beach clean-up.

FWN DISRUPTed Los Angeles: DISRUPT 4.0 Book Launch (September 22, 2023)

On September 22, 2023, the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles became the stage for an evening of inspiration, as we launched FWN’s DISRUPT 4.0 book. This wasn’t just a celebration of literature; it was a moment to amplify Filipina voices in leadership globally.

Homage to Filipina Voices: In Celebration of Women’s History Month (March 31, 2024)

On March 31, 2024, in celebration of Women’s History Month, we hosted “Homage to Filipina Voices” at the Los Angeles Athletic Club, bringing together Filipina leaders to engage in powerful conversations on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

FWN Pinay Speed FEMtoring: Lifting Future Filipina Leaders (September 14, 2024)

On September 14, 2024, we held Southern California’s first FWN Pinay Speed FEMtoring in Eagle Rock, California. This proved to be an exhilarating and inspirational event that brought together students, young professionals, and women at various stages of their careers.

These four events serve as meaningful capstones as I transition out of my role as the Southern California ambassador for FWN. While this chapter of my journey comes to an end, I know that this is only the beginning. The mission to disrupt the status quo, amplify Filipina voices, and create opportunities for future leaders will continue to grow stronger. I am filled with excitement and pride as I look forward to supporting the next ambassador in carrying on this wonderful journey, ensuring that the spirit of the FWN sisterhood remains invincible for generations to come.