Professional Documents
Culture Documents
14TH FILIPINA
LEADERSHIP
GLOBAL SUMMIT
Cynthia Barker
Changemaker
GLOBAL FWN100
Message from the Philippine Ambassador
EDITORIAL TEAM
to Canada HE Petronila Garcia
MARILY MONDEJAR
Publisher
It is my pleasure to welcome all
GIANNINA UY
participants to the 14th Filipina
FWN Fellow
FWN Fellow Editorial Coordinator
Leadership Global Summit ably
organized by the Filipina Womens
CONTRIBUTORS
AMYLINE QUIEN CHING Network. The history of the Philippines
CARRIE T. ASPA
FRANCINE MAIGUE is filled with accounts of Filipinas taking
LEAH LAXAMANA
NIKKI ZANO TANG the mantle of leadership in the struggle
FWN BOARD for freedom and independence, which
AMAR BORNKAMP
ELIZABETH BAUTISTA
commitment continues as women
LEONOR VINTERVOLL
MAAN HONTIVEROS
leaders now share the burden of
MARIA BEEBE, PH.D. lifting our country and kababayans
MARIA ROSENI NINI ALVERO
MARIA SANTOS-GREAVES from the bondage of poverty and
HON MARILY MONDE JAR
ROSARIO CA JUCOM-BRADBURY want which afflict a significant part of HE PEtroNila Garcia
Philippine
SUSIE QUESADA
HON THELMA BOAC
our population, and which similarly Ambassador to Canada
FWN EXECUTIVE
imperils the lives of many in other
ADVISORY COUNCIL (EAC) countries, including those in North
MAAN HONTIVEROS, CHAIR
BAMBI LORICA, M.D. America. I enjoin everybody to actively
GLORIA T. CAOILE
COL. SHIRLEY RAGUINDIN participate in the proceedings of this
PHOTO CREDITS Global Summit and contribute to the
DES WHITHEY
GANI RICARTE goal of further empowering Filipinas.
Let us not resist the calling to step
up and be counted. After all, we are
women. Our actions matter. And, more
importantly, we are Filipinas!
4 HOW TO REACH THE FILIPINA WOMENS NETWORK: P. O. Box 192143, San Francisco, CA 94119 | Phone: 415. 935. 4FWN
www.FilipinaWomensNetwork.org | facebook.com/FilipinaWomensNetwork | Twitter@filipinawomen
Welcome from the Global FWN100TM Selection Committee CHAIR
Congratulations and Mabuhay! I am highly honored to representatives of the corporate and business world,
welcome all of you to Filipina Womens Networks 14th government and policy, military, legal services, consulting
Filipina Leadership Global Summit, honoring Filipina services, retail, financial services, healthcare, non-profit
women who are game changers on the world stage. This organizations, educational institutions, journalism, broadcast
is, indeed, an historic event celebrating and sharing the media, entertainment, film, and culinary arts. They are
accomplishments of outstanding women who will carry on lawyers, judges, architects, artists, entrepreneurs, and
the banner of our vision -- expanding the next generation of engineers -- all demonstrating exceptional courage in
Filipina leaders by 2020 in both public and private sectors. leadership.
These extraordinary women being honored this week
will continue the pathway and will be the influencers, as Visionaries, innovators and risk takers -- these extraordinary
they already are, to attain the goal of the Filipina Womens women who have excelled in their areas of expertise and
Network. continued to influence others with their leadership skills,
their spirit of humility, their selfless energy of helping others,
Eleanor Roosevelt once said, You gained strength, courage, their deep respect for family and humanity, and, most of all,
and confidence by every experience in which you really stop their devotion to womens rights -- they are helping to make
to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you a better world.
think you cannot do. Having had the rewarding honor of
conversing with these inspiring and empowering women As Leymah Roberta Gbowee of Liberia said as she accepted
from the United States and various countries, I have seen the Nobel Peace Prize, You can never leave footprints that
first-hand their amazing strength, courage, and confidence. last -- if you are always walking on tiptoes. These women of HoN. tHElma boac
influence we are honoring at the gala awards ceremony will Chair, Global FWN100
These Filipina women continue to influence their never walk on tiptoes. They have their two feet firmly on the Selection Committee
communities -- collectively building positive images of ground -- fearless, gentle, compassionate and disciplined!
the Filipina woman around the world. They include My sincerest and heartfelt congratulations to all of you!
3A 1 4 TH
MOST INFLUENTIAL FILIPINA AWARD CATEGORIES
WOMEN IN THE WORLD AWARD BEHIND THE SCENES LEADERS INNOVATORS & THOUGHT LEADERS
The Most Influential Filipina Women award criteria:
in the World Award recognizes 1. Impact - 15 points This award category recognizes Filipina This award recognizes women who have
women of Philippine ancestry who are 2. Innovation - 15 points women who may not have the big title or broken new ground in the marketplace,
influencing the face of leadership in 3. Involvement - 15 points corner office, but is a driving force behind have delivered new and unique
the global workplace, having reached 4. Femtorship (mentorship) - 15 the success of a social cause or life issue, applications of emerging technology
status for outstanding work in their points a community organizations project or transforming the way people think, in the
respective professions, industries and 5. Professionalism - 15 points initiative; or her employers organizational fields of sports, literature, the arts and
6. Sustainability (of activity or project business unit or department. Someone pop culture, or have improved the lives
communities. They are recognized for
she may have started or have been who has gone beyond the call of duty to of others by helping develop a product or
their achievement and contributions to
involved) - 15 point devote time, energy, and resources to service in the fields of science, technology,
society, femtorship and legacy.
7. Bonus points for demonstrated advocate for those who need a voice, or engineering, arts, or mathematics. This
global support the organization she represents or award category is also for someone who
The Global FWN100 Selection
imprint - 10 points works for. have either launched a new enterprise
Committee ensures that nominations are
learning function or completely overhauled
reviewed fairly. Nominees are selected
by a rigorous vetting process which
For 2nd or 3rd time award
nominations, nominee is scored
BUILDERS an existing development or community
initiative.
includes a determination of nominees Builders have demonstrated exceptional
on activities she has undertaken to organizational impact at a large workplace
global Filipina imprint, a personal
interview, a review of the accurateness
further FWNs Mission since receiving
the U.S. and/or Global FWN100 Award
environment; displaying deep passion for POLICY MAKERS & VISIONARIES
a cause through collaborative initiatives This award recognizes Filipina women
of the nomination submission, answers in addition to the award criteria = 30 or alliances with institutions, corporations leaders who have demonstrated
to the criteria questions, social media points total or nonprofit organizations on behalf of
and internet vetting, and a chat with her exceptional business acumen combined
Since receiving the U.S. and/or Global her own company. Builders demonstrate
references and nominator. with a forward-looking vision in the
FWN100 Award, what has nominee high potential and skill with measurable development or influencing of policies,
done for FWN and to further FWNs results at a government agency, higher campaigns or laws that impact business,
The scoring is set up for consistency Mission? education institution, nonprofit or an industry, and society; leaders who enrich
across the award categories. The organization in the public and private the lives, careers and businesses of others
Selection Committee provides numerical 1. Has nominee nominated Filipina sectors. Buildership is about developing
by sharing the benefits of their wealth,
scores for each of the following criteria women for the Global FWN100 better organizations, leading broken
experience, and knowledge; actions that
described on the nomination form for Award? organizations to adjust, repair, and re-align
2. Has nominee signed up as a FWN including journalistic views redefining significantly change how we think and live.
activities and projects of the last three
years that nominee initiated or have Femtor?; If so, how many has she traditional methods.
been involved in her country of residence femtored? NICOLE
around three factors: 3. Has nominee invited other Filipina
women to join FWN?
EMERGING LEADERS This award honors Filipina women whose
words, actions, and activism, inspire
This award category recognizes Filipina
leadership: The degree to which the 4. Has nominee been a speaker or women below age 35 who are making others to act and revolutionize societys
nominee led the initiative, project or facilitator for a FWN event or at the their mark in a leadership role, are on way of understanding traditional beliefs
annual Filipina Summit? the pathway to principalship and building and customs thus leaving behind a
activity, demonstrated by behaviors such
5. Has nominee volunteered her capacity across a system. Emerging Filipino global imprint. Nicole, who
as setting clear goals, providing guidance,
time and resources to FWN as Leaders have powerful mindsets and sparked an international dialogue about
coaching and support, working through
a committee / task force chair/ skill sets that drive achievement for their womens rights, national sovereignty,
obstacles and/or celebrating success. co-chair?
organizations. and international law as she steadfastly
6. What other actions has nominee pursued justice against her rapists, inspires
challenge: The scope, difficulty and size taken to advance FWNs Mission?
of the initiative, project or activity. FOUNDERS & PIONEERS this category.
This award honors Filipina women in
ownership: The degree to which
When selected, the nominees will be
notified privately in advance of the their capacities as the chief executive, KEEPERS OF THE FLAME
the nominee took ownership of the president, executive director or founder of Sustaining Pinay Power 2020 is quite
Filipina Summit dates so they can be
challenges she faced for the initiative, a company, community organization, non- daunting. As the excitement dies down
profiled in the publication of the FWN
project or activity, demonstrated by profit, or business venture that they helped and the reality of executing FWNs 2020
Magazine Global FWN100 Souvenir
start, build or significantly grow. This game plan sets in, many will drop out and
behaviors such as helping define Issue, allow for travel arrangements,
award category is for the trailblazers who others will pick up the torch. The Keepers
outcomes, setting clear goals, providing time off from work, Filipina Leadership
have marshaled resources and applied of the Flame are the caretakers to ensure
guidance, working through obstacles Global Summit registration, FWN
innovative practices, processes and/or that the Vision 2020 is kept alive: A Filipina
and communicating challenges and membership and participation in the
technologies in a new and groundbreaking Woman Leader in every sector of the
successes. summit activities, sessions, photo /
way to address a significant business or global economy.
video interview sessions and media
organizational opportunity.
conferences.
more info at www.FilipinaWomensNetwork.org/fwn100
5A 1 4 TH
PI NAY POWER
ECONOMIC
SECTORS
REPRESENTED BY THE NOMINEES
PrimarY EcoNomic SEctor = includes industries that produce or extract raw
materials Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, Farming, Hunting, Mining, Extraction
7A 1 4 TH
BEHI ND THE SCENES
GLOBAL
If you could run the world, what HR Consultancy and Recruitment What was your very first paid job?
one law would you enact? How will Company, a social enterprise that How old were you? How much were
it impact the world? helps people with disabilities find you paid? How did this job turn you
FWN100 17
The law to protect women; work. onto leadership? How did it impact
diminish violence against women your career or business direction?
and discrimination. This is a What is the most significant barrier My first job in the US was a
developmental issue and will
require change in the traditions
and cultures, religions and values,
to female leadership from your
experience? How did it impact your
career or business? Did it help you
become a leader or advocate?
BUILDERS housekeeper. I was able to turn this
role into leadership with my strong
determination, persistence, hard
practices and beliefs. Child marriage work, and common sense because I
in Indonesia, sexual assaults, I never experienced any barrier wanted to change my life.
bullying, female genital cutting as a result of my gender. I started
in Africa are acceptable in these my career as a stockbroker, a male
cultures. If I could run the world, dominated industry where we were
I will develop a global law, strict treated solely based on performance.
policies, rules and regulations, even I was promoted to head up a new
standards to be followed by every office in Cebu as Branch Manager at
unit in the smallest community in age 27, based purely on performance
all the countries in the world; to results not because of my gender.
be implemented from the top to
bottom, and then I hope I could What you would advice to your 20-
make this place morally equitable. year old self?
Explore the world. Enjoy life. Travel
If you had superpowers, and learn. Dont take life seriously, Isabelita Lita M. Abele
take it easy. Appreciate life and be President and CEO
what would you do? Leading,
compassionate. Every minute is an US Lumber, Inc.
Advocating, Impacting the world?
experience, treasure it. New Jersey, USA
I would like the power of convincing
the world that women be given As President and CEO of the
the opportunity to utilize their full South Jersey-based, family-owned
potential in whatever career they lumber supplier U.S. Lumber, Inc.,
choose; create women as leaders in Isabelita Abele has successfully Jacqueline D. Yu, Esq.
gone against the grain and Estate Attorney
positioned her certified woman Valensi Rose PLC
and minority-owned lumber and California, USA
building materials company as a As an attorney, Jacqueline has
regional leader in industry sales. broad-based experience in trusts
She represents the best of success and estates, tax, and business
in diversity as she breaks the glass law. Her clients include high-net-
ceiling and opens opportunities for worth individuals and closely-held
Filipino women and men in America. businesses, whom she advises on
With her outstanding leadership in estate, tax and business succession
a non-traditional male-dominated planning, entity formation,
Rosary Escano industry, this woman-owned trademark and brand licensing, asset
corporation has been recognized for protection, tax controversy, trust
Marketing and Community over twenty years with outstanding and probate administration and
Relations Head international, regional, and local probate litigation.
ABS-CBN Canada business awards and recognition.
Maria Cristina Estella Ontario, Canada
She is active in non-profit and civic
Bulong Calaguian Rosary is a marketing professional Who influenced you as a leader? organizations that advocate for
who successfully promotes No one influenced me. My business
Managing Director and Philippine culture and identity in human rights and environmental
Career Management Consultant is the achievement of my dream, preservation that support
Canada. She is a major influencer in because I am a dreamer.
Dagaz HR Consultancy and strengthening the Filipino identity sustainability-driven innovation and
Recruitment Company FZ LLC while supporting the rich cultural Most significant barrier to female diversity policies in the public and
Dubai, United Arab Emirates diversity in Canada. As the Marketing leadership? How did it impact your private sectors. She is a member of
and Community Relations Head for career or business? the State Bar of California, Beverly
After 11 years of making a name for ABS-CBN Canada for the past 7 My accent. I used it to my Hills Bar Association, Society of
herself as a Licensed Stockbroker years, she identified and developed Trust and Estate Practitioners,
advantage by highlighting the
in a traditionally male-dominated key partners among Filipino National Cannabis Bar Association,
need for diversity in government
industry, Cristina moved to Dubai organizations, media institutions Women in Cleantech and
contracts.
where she decided to pursue a and government agencies that Sustainability, National Association
business that would give meaning strengthened the companys brand
of Women Business Owners, KAYA
to her life. She founded Dagaz through its heightened community
engagement
9A 1 4 TH
BUILDERS
and former associates. Mary Ann My passion and commitment in She believes students need to have become nannies just to find work
attributes her 25 years of success to mentoring people regardless of their the curiosity to learn and not told abroad. There has not been one
her passion, drive and enthusiasm title or position and my commitment how to think. She encourages young country that Ive visited where I am
for the hospitality industry, support in giving something back to the mathematicians to build under- not asked if I am there for those rea-
from her parents and mentors, and community. I am a strong advocate standing through peer discourse, sons. I think this needs to change.
her ambition to provide her son a of people who want to grow pro- make conjectures and generaliza- We need to help our government
better life. fessionally and personally but dont tions, and reflect on misconcep- open doors to many other profes-
know how to go about it. tions. As Math Coach at the United sions that will help Filipina women
If there is one influential action What was your very first paid job? Nations International School, she succeed in all kinds of careers.
that makes you very proud of your How old were you? How much implements STEAM problem-based Your LEGACY for the Filipina Wom-
body of work, what would that be? were you paid? How did this job courses and innovative math curric- ens Network.
How does the action demonstrate turn you onto leadership? How did ulum design. This is a challenge because my legacy
you as leading, advocating, impact- it impact your career or business continues to evolve. This is a word
ing your constituency? direction? What is the most significant barrier that normally belongs to somebody
In 2016, we received a perfect score Staff Nurse, 23 years old, $4.97 an to female leadership from your who has passed on or who has lived
of 100% in the Department of Sales hour. I never turn away any op- experience? How did it impact your long enough to have a huge impact
and Marketing employee engage- portunity that comes along. If i am career or business? Did it help you on people. Given the context of
ment survey. This was a personal asked to do something by my nurs- become a leader or advocate? where I am now, I am hoping that my
goal since 2013. The well-being of ing leadership, Id do it even if I had legacy will be to open doors for Fili-
my team is important to me, and never done it before. I look at those I find that heavy competition pina women to the field of anything
this score is reflective of a happy opportunities as an investment in amongst women in many fields of to do with mathematics. This means
and highly motivated department. my career. work places an unnecessary burden careers in technology, sciences,
to their roads to success. When I education, construction, design,
The ONE thing that we would not What is one piece of advice that was an architect, I was constantly and even politics. The world would
guess about you. you would give to your 20-year old challenged by needing to prove be a better place if it were diverse,
I have a 24-year old son! self? my worth in both the design and non-biased, and equally represented
Believe in yourself, stay away from construction environments. This by many kinds of people.
Your LEGACY for the Filipina negative people and surround your- continues to be the case in archi-
Womens Network. self with people who inspire you. tecture as it is a heavily dominated
I hope to inspire and mentor Filipina male environment. Education
women in the hospitality industry. experiences a similar dilemma in
My hope is that more Filipina wom- that women dominate the class-
en will pursue and reach executive room scene, however, leadership in
and corporate level positions. administration is male-dominated.
As being a math coach is a relatively
new field, my role is androgynous
in the profession. Having been an
architect and now a math coach is
seamlessly aligned for me as it is fo-
cused on applied mathematics. This
is why leading teacher development
and advocating for young female
mathematicians is intuitive, inten-
tional, and purposeful in my goals.
Rowena Romulo
Owner
The ONE thing that we would not Romulo Restaurant
guess about you. Group UK Limited
I am passionate about wine edu- London, United Kingdom
cation and I passed a blind tasting Rowena can be credited in
exam. putting Philippine cuisine on the
Rebecca Santos Murry gastronomic map of London in less
Myrna P. Young What do you think is the biggest than a year from opening the first
challenge that faces the next gen- foreign outpost of Romulo Caf, a
Nursing Education Specialist Math Coach, Manhattan eration of Filipina women? family-owned food business first
Robert Wood Johnson Hospital & Queens Campuses The stigma Filipinas have abroad established in Manila in 2009. The
New Jersey, USA United Nations International School focus on the generalization that we restaurant draws upon the family
New York USA leave the country for domestic ser-
One influential action that makes legacy of one of the Philippines
you proud of your body of work? vice work or being a nurse. When I international diplomatic figures,
An architect for 20 years, Rebecca
How did the action demonstrate am in Europe, I meet Filipinas who Carlos P. Romulo, offering food
shifted to teaching Mathematics
you as leading, advocating, are geographers, social workers, lovers a taste of the Philippines in
where she helps eliminate math
impacting your constituency? even teachers, who decided to the heart of Kensington, London.
anxiety, especially with young girls.
11A 1 4 TH
EMERGING LEADERS
GLOBAL
My ability to see tasks/situations ing to infectious diseases. She has new hires are projected in the next
from a birds-eye view. I have a published articles and reports in few years providing employment
strong belief in smart and collabo- both English and Norwegian, has for the Philippines and boosting
EMERGING
qualified to achieve the desired Ocampo grew up outside of Oslo, Impacting?
result in the least amount of time. Norway, she considers the Philip- I would work for a development
pines as one of her many homes. organization. I have always wanted
LEADERS
What is one piece of advice that She can cook like a Kapampangan to make an impact in society; help
you would give to your 20-year old and speak Tagalog. Her goal is to use the less fortunate. My dream was to
self? what she has learned throughout work for the United Nations and if
Be brave, be bold, be strong. The her professional and academic life to given the chance, I would do it.
world is yours to explore. Its wait- help benefit Filipinos.
ing for you with open hands. If you had superpowers, what
would you do? Leading, Advocating,
Impacting the world?
I would lead people to aim for bigger
things; guide and inspire them to be
better (just like Professor X)
FWN100TM
cultures in teams. To date, I have facing Filipina women in todays
helped train 300,000 individuals and complex and highly competitive
teams in the Philippines, Thailand,
FOUNDERS AND
environment. She overcomes overt
Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia. and muted racism and gender bias
in her profession and continues to
PIONEERS What is the most significant barrier
to female leadership from your
believe in the ideal that empowering
women, empowers children and
experience? How did it impact your
whole communities.
career or business? Did it help you
become a leader or advocate?
One influential action that makes
I think it is work-life balance. Having you very proud of your body
a corporate /business career and of work. How does the action
attending to your responsibility as demonstrate you as leading,
a mother requires a balancing act advocating, impacting your
that can drain out ones energy. constituency?
Personally, I was able to manage Representing over 3,000 banana
this by bringing my husband and farm workers from Davao in a
children to my universe and making pesticide action in Los Angeles. I
them understand what I do and will take cases which are difficult
the huge work ahead of me. My to give voice to people who need
Cherry Pua Africa advocacy is a family mission and advocates in the United States. Cora dela Cruz
Managing Director I am happy to fight this challenge Senior Advisor, National Activities,
World Stage International Network with my family as my source of What is the global imprint of your Canadian Chamber of Commerce of
inspiration. the Philippines (CanCham)
Makati, Philippines work? Are you leading, advocating,
A thought leader in the field of impacting your constituency? Philippines
Neuro Linguistic Programming, Cora has over 30 years of govern-
leadership, sales, personal There are very few Filipina women
ment management experience in
empowerment and communication, litigators in the United States and I
business regulation and in the ad-
Cherry is one of the most widely am one of the pioneers who started
ministration of consumer protection
followed transformation coaches in her own civil and criminal litigation statutes in Ontario, ranging from
Asia, having helped over 300,000 firm. policy development, operations
individuals & businesses up the ante
management, project management,
on their performance by unleashing What is the most significant barrier
their inner fires so that they are information technology and systems
to female leadership from your development.
releasing their fullest promise to experience? How did it impact your
inspire bold action and impact career or business? Did it help you
organizational results. A seasoned entrepreneur, she leads
become a leader or advocate? a business school in Southeast Asia
Armed with a mission to change and has operated a travel agency in
the consciousness of corporate The cultural and gender stereotypes Toronto, with a growing interest in
Philippines, she set up World Stage which inhibit women from pursuing facilitating business and trade mis-
Claire Navarro Espina openly their ambition with drive sions between Asia and Canada
International Network, a company President and CEO
that is involved in leading edge and without shame - is the biggest
Edelberg & Espina, APLC hindrance I encountered. I was
personal breakthrough, transforming She was the National Executive
California, USA accused of being too ambitious, Director (COO) of the Canadian
work cultures and igniting
individual enabling. Cherry and Claire was a deported alien mother too hard, not soft enough, Chamber of Commerce of the Phil-
her team have impacted individual of four who overcame great odds, confrontational. I overcame these ippines (CanCham) for almost five
breakthroughs, leadership shifts pursued her legal education while barriers by just going after what I years with offices in Manila, Cebu
and cultural disruptions, influencing raising four children, fought her want. When people tell me I cannot and Davao, an organization that
over 300,000 lives. Her work has own deportation and won, and is do it, I am motivated to prove them promotes, supports, and represents
translated to higher engagement, now the principal of Edelberg & wrong. Canada-Philippines business inter-
enabling teams to achieve double Espina, a full service litigation firm ests.
their baseline, while making people in Los Angeles. Her practice focuses The ONE thing that we would not
become more empowered. on criminal defense, banking, If there is one influential action
guess about you.
business and civil rights. Her firm, Without the discipline and focus of that makes you very proud of your
What is the global imprint of your also represents prominent Filipino body of work, what would that be?
body of work? Are you leading, the law, I could easily be a criminal.
nationals in their legal and business It is the discipline of the law which How does the action demonstrate
advocating, impacting your you as leading, advocating, impact-
affairs in the US. tempers my natural subversive,
constituency? ing your constituency?
anarchic self
As a female, immigrant attorney I led the Canadian Chamber of Com-
Through training, I am able to
13A 1 4 TH
FOUNDERS & PIONEERS
merce of the Philippines (CanCham) look beyond and the courage to
to a new phase by organizing trade move forward despite all the odds
and investment missions to Canada and difficulties.
from the Philippines. CanCham has
never done a single outbound trade What is one piece of advice that
mission to Canada until I came. you would give to your 20-year old
These trade missions provided self?
opportunities for Philippine com- Go Slow. There is so much to enjoy.
panies seeking partnerships, joint
ventures, trade and investments. I
also introduced Canada trade fairs in
the NCR, Cebu and Davao regions to
showcase business collaborations.
GLOBAL FWN100TM
INNOVATORS AND
THOUGHT LEADERS
R. Edna Consing
Nikki Zano Tang Concepcion
Chief Executive Officer Owner and Certified Financial Advisor
DMARK Corporation and Heritage Investments & Retirement
Derm Asia Corporation Planning, Inc., California USA
Mercedes Muldong Metro Manila, Philippines Integrity, perseverance, equal
Nikki Tang is a Beautypreneur opportunity for women, civic
Calderon - one who, aside from being an engagement, and Filipino pride
Founder / Owner and entrepreneur in the beauty industry, define Edna Consing Concepcions
Managing Director also gives importance in helping brand of influence. From breaking
Xavier International School people achieve their beauty goals by a mortgage banking mold, to Anna-Karina Tabuar
Maputo City, Mozambique working hand in hand with medical chartering a chamber of commerce, Director, Communications Strategy,
professionals. She works closely serving as a city commissioner, Diversity and Inclusion
Mercedes Calderons career as an with skin experts and always in starting a baseball league tradition,
educator brought her to Maputo, Sodexo
the forefront to bring innovation and initiating a prestigious
Mozambique, where she first taught Ontario, Canada
and breakthrough technology in community service awards gala,
at the American International the market. Her determination, Edna has blazed many trails. But Anna-Karina Tabuar calls herself
School. This led her to establish hard-work, and the courage to tap beyond these firsts, Ednas life a recovering journalist, trying to
the Xavier International School, into the market of anti-aging in the testifies to lasting impacts, make a difference in the world. Her
one of the only few kindergartens Philippines, led to founding DMark generations helped, relationships own journey with disability gives
Beauty and DermAsiaCorporations. sustained, legacies established. her a unique vantage point and
in Maputo with English as the
Driven by an honest desire to new way of working, making her
language of instruction. Being
One influential action that makes help and careful to nurturing the a vocal advocate for accessibility
a senior academician and and inclusion in the workplace. Her
entrepreneur, Mercedes has become you very proud of your body of work. reciprocal trust she has earned,
How does the action demonstrate Edna serves. documentary film Talent Untapped
one of the major contacts of the weaves personal stories to tell
you as leading, advocating,
Philippine Embassy in South Africa impacting your constituency? the business case behind hiring
How have you impacted your
and serves as adviser to Filipino I am proud to be a woman which people with disabilities. A seasoned
profession, your organization, your
community leaders. motivated me to cultivate the beauty community? broadcaster and journalist, she was
in every woman by providing the best I have impacted my profession, the host and contributing editor
What is the global imprint of your and well researched products in the organization, and community by: of the internationally acclaimed
body of work? Are you leading, Philippines. It also sparked a passion 1) Being the first female Filipino program Canada in Perspective
advocating, impacting your in me to encourage other women to American mortgage banker in San which explores issues surrounding
constituency? be brave and follow their own dreams Diego County assisting thousands inclusion, ageing and disability.
As school director and owner, as well. of Filipino American families with
I serve as an advocate to new their loans to purchase their first What is the most significant barrier
school owners to sustain their If you could run the world, what one home; 2) Initiating the first Filipino to female leadership from your
law would you enact? How will it Night at the Padres game during experience? How did it impact your
businesses. I help Filipino teachers
impact the world? the Filipino Centennial Celebration career or business? Did it help you
in the Philippines by providing jobs I would be interested in creating in 1998 where I threw the Official become a leader or advocate?
overseas, likewise with the local a law that does not allow people Ball at a major baseball game My most significant barrier was
people. below 21 years old to undergo plastic a lack of a mentor and advocate.
to commemorate the Philippine
surgery. People at a young age are Centennial Celebration, the first Having one early in my career would
What is one piece of advice that still undergoing their formative years, have made my path much easier.
Filipino American to have this
you would give to your 20-year old and it is important for them to be Having a mentor would have also
honor; 3) The first female Filipino
self? fully exposed to all kinds of beauty given me the confidence to self-
American commissioner in the city
Be brave. Be bold. Chase your treatments before making permanent advocate.
of Chula Vista, California.
dream. physical changes. This law will help
define themselves as beautiful If you had superpowers,
individuals instead of being pressured The ONE thing that we would not
guess about you. what would you do? Leading,
by social media and celebrity icons. Advocating, Impacting the world?
I am an ardent numismatist.
15A 1 4 TH
INNOVATORS & THOUGHT LEA DERS
I would have the power to learn How does the action demonstrate
instantly what others know and you as leading, advocating,
absorb their talents and expertise on impacting your constituency?
the spot.
I am fortunate to be in this era
The ONE thing that we would not of change and has led the way
guess about you. in achieving aggressive yet
That I manage chronic fatigue and safe surgeries, both open and
progressive vision loss. laparoscopic approach for the
liver and pancreas which were not
done before in the Philippines. Fidelina Adan Corcuera
With the good outcomes of my
surgeries especially for liver cancer (Ret.)Executive Director, BPI Foundation
and advanced pancreatic cancer, (Ret.)Chief Sustainability Officer, BPI
Makati, Philippines Georgitta Pimentel Puyat
Ive made an effort to educate
Chairman
physicians and patients alike. I To Faye, the greatest thrill is in
Philippine Orchard
gave lectures showing how these actually being able to move the
aggressive surgeries are doable and needle and create value. Her Corporation
the impact on the survival outcomes career is a showcase of a complete Makati City, Philippine
professional with a solid track Georgitta Puyat is not your ordinary
of patients. I wanted to change the
record of 35 years of international business woman. She is a serious,
landscape of liver and pancreatic
cancer from hopeless to a more and local work experience in Human goals and results oriented leader
encouraging state. Because of the Resources, capped in the past three whose life experiences shaped and
good outcomes that these surgeries years focusing her energy in doing directed her purpose to serve, to
have shown, physicians began good for a larger audience as the be a staunch advocate for womens
to refer patients, patients began Executive Director of BPI (Bank of issues. Her socio-civic work over the
to accept surgery as a treatment the Philippine Islands) Foundation. years has impacted generations of
Catherine Sia Cheng Teh, option, trainees began to gain Her role has enabled her to put women and families.
interest in the field of hepatobiliary societal issues at the core of the
M.D. companys strategy and repurposed
pancreatic surgery. It took some If there is one influential action that
Chief, Hepatobiliary time but I am certain and happy that the focus of the Foundation from makes you very proud from your
Pancreatic Section, Department of today, HPB surgery is a specialized capital allocation to shared value,
body of work, what would that be?
Surgery a new way of doing business when
field that has found its place in How does the action demonstrate
companies generate economic
Makati Medical Center Philippine surgery. you as leading, advocating,
value for themselves in a way that
Makati, Philippines impacting your constituency?
simultaneously produces value by
ONE person who influenced you as addressing social and environmental In 1997, I co-initiated the
Dr. Catherine Teh has revolutionized a leader and advocate? How did it
hepatopancreatociliary surgery in challenges. establishment of a Psychological
impact your career or business? Center for Sexually Abused
the Philippines. She introduced It is hard to pinpoint one particular
advanced and complex liver, What is the global imprint of your Children (ages 3-17) that has
person who influenced me as a body of work? Are you leading,
pancreatic and biliary surgeries provided continuous psychological
leader. The truth is that I am so advocating, impacting your
including the laparoscopic approach. care for raped, sexually abused,
fortunate to be mentored by many constituency?
To date, she is the only one in the leaders in the fields of medicine, trafficked girls in Marillac Hills,
country performing highly advanced Each of the programs and initiatives Muntinlupa, Philippines. This was
surgery and leadership. Mentors I have created builds on a tapestry
and complex HPB surgeries, helping whom I have worked with all a needed response to the lack of a
one patient at a time and training of possibilities, an integrated
younger surgeons in the field of
contributed and served as my role ecosystem that changes how people government facility that provided
models that I have become today. become financially healthy, how and protected the mental health and
HPB surgery. Unfortunately, they were all men. well-being of young girls. To date,
micro-small entrepreneurs grow
There were no women surgeons at their businesses, and how small- the Center has helped over 4,500
Dr. Teh is a champion of that time to hold my hand and lead girls.
holder farmers build scale and
multidisciplinary approach in me the way. I had to learn things sustainability in agriculture.
cancer management. This allows
on my own feminine / feminist way, What was you very first paid job?
best approach in the management
taking into consideration everything What do you think is the biggest (actual job title) How old were
of cancer incorporating resource
that my (male) mentors have challenge that faces the next you? How much were you paid?
stratification and risk benefit
achieved. I know that if he (they) can generation of Filipina women? How did this job turn you into
analysis. In doing so, she has The demographics show more than
trained both oncologists and do it, I can do it. leadership? How did it impact your
50% of the Philippine population career or business direction?
surgeons to apply this in their being female, with almost 38% in
daily practice. This has then been Which historical female figure My first job was as a Singing Talent
would you like to have coffee with? the labor force (2013). Although
a standard in the management for an Ad Agency at age 16. I did
What would you like to learn from there are more Filipina women
process in her institutions. senior executives, only 21% of not gain anything but it led to my
her? second job as the spokesperson for
Coco Chanel on fashion and style, organizations have female CEOs.
If there is one influential action To me, the ability to make it to the the Philippine Tuberculosis Society
that makes you very proud of your on lifelong determination, ambition, when I won a beauty contest.
CEO level remains a challenge for
body of work, what would that be? energy and financial success.
Filipina women.
17A 1 4 TH
POLI CYMAKERS & V I SI ONA RI ES
Elected as the first Filipina
GLOBAL Councillor in the UK. As a political
FWN100TM
leader and before the end of my
term, I plan to form a Conservative
19A 1 4 TH
POLICYMAKERS & V I SI ONA RI ES
experience? How did it impact your body of work, what would that be? career objectives, and in turn help
career or business? Did it help you How does the action demonstrate others who faced similar barriers. I
become a leader or advocate? you as leading, advocating, turned my frustrations and anger into
Slut shaming is the most common impacting your constituency? positive behaviors and actions that
and convenient way of deterring As Board Trustee and current yielded positive results.
women from achieving success President of the New Haven Unified
outside their traditional roles. This School District, I have the ability ONE (only) Filipino custom you
is still being practiced today and it to impact the lives of over 12,000 would like to pass on to others that
should not be tolerated in any way, students, over 600 staff members, would make an impactful impression
shape or form. and the surrounding Union City- in society.
Hayward community by setting Filipinos have the custom of
HE Petronila Which historical female figure would direction, establishing vision and Bayanihan. This means being in a
you like to have coffee with? What priorities, supporting a safe and bayan, or community. This entails
P. Garcia would you like to learn from her? positive learning environment a community spirit of helping one
Philippine Ambassador Extraordinary Winnie Mandela. I would like to hear for students and staff, expecting another, especially in times of need,
and Plenipotentiary to Canada her side of the story. How she raised accountability from all stakeholders, without expecting anything in return.
Philippines Department of Foreign her children in South Africa as a black and providing community leadership It is the spirit of collaboration and
Affairs woman during apartheid, with her and advocacy to promote student cooperation to achieve a particular
husband (their father) incarcerated success. I was instrumental in goal. If we, as a society, could
Canada and Philippines
and leading the anti-apartheid helping to rename one of our middle practice such an attitude, imagine the
Ambassador Petronila P. Garcia movement from inside the jail. schools the Itliong-Vera Cruz Middle possibilities of what each individual,
is the first Filipina woman to School, after Filipino-American farm working in a team as a community,
become Ambassador to Canada What is one piece of advice that you workers, co-founders of the United could do for others who are in need.
and first woman Ambassador to would give to your 20-year old self?
Farm Workers (UFW), to recognize This spirit would help address and
an Arab country. As Ambassador, Quit smoking immediately. Dont
their achievements and promote mitigate many of the social issues
she is tasked to contribute to the wait until you are 35.
pride amongst the large Filipino- that we currently face.
enhancement of national security
American population in our school
and the protection of the territorial
integrity and national sovereignty district. This is the first school in the
of the Philippines, to participate in U.S. named after Filipino-Americans.
the national endeavor of sustaining Having a school named after Filipinos
development and enhancing the allows the Filipino students and
Philippines competitive edge, to families to see themselves as part
protect the rights and promote of the community because they
the welfare of Filipinos overseas, see role models that reflect their
about 660,000 in Canada, and to ethnicity. This also helps to publicize
mobilize them as partners in national and promote awareness of the rest
development, to project a positive of the story, providing the whole
image of the Philippines, and to history of the California farm worker
increase international understanding labor movement.
of Philippine culture for mutually- HON Rosalinda V.
beneficial relations not just with What is the most significant barrier
Canada but also with other countries. Canlas to female leadership from your
Board Trustee and President experience? How did it impact your
What is the global imprint of your New Haven Unified School District career or business? Did it help you
body of work? Are you leading, California, USA become a leader or advocate?
advocating, impacting your Although slowly improving, for
constituency? Linda is an educator, elected public
servant, and community volunteer me, the most significant barrier to
As a diplomat, I engage the host leadership is the societys accepted
government in positive and who has devoted her career to
promoting student success and to intersectional attitudes towards
constructive ways, in order to women with different ethnic
strengthen bilateral relations enhancing the quality of life in her
community. She serves as New backgrounds. Comments such as
and enhance cooperation in the Shes not blonde enough or Will
multilateral field. I also constantly Haven Unified School District Board
Trustee, currently as Board President, she be able to handle this? indicated
endeavor to ensure that the Filipino
successfully promoting a grass-roots such intersectional attitudes that
community in my country of
prevailed as I was applying for a
assignment are given legal protection community effort to rename a middle
and have access to consular services school in honor of Filipino-American Principal position within public
and assistance when needed. Finally, farm labor leaders Larry Itliong and schools. Comments such as these
I explore all avenues to increase Phillip Vera Cruz, the first public implied that I needed to be of a
economic relations and two-way school in the U.S. to be named for specific color, or a man, in order
bilateral trade between the host Filipino-Americans. to be considered for the positions
country and the Philippines. that I was seeking. Yes, it helped
If there is one influential action that me become both a leader AND an
What is the most significant barrier makes you very proud from your advocate. Such comments made
to female leadership from your me more determined to pursue my
From Avocado to Ube, we bring you flavors you know, in an ice cream! We use genuine fruits from the
Philippines and real milk to bring you authentic tastes. Try our newest flavors Barako (coffee) Bean and
Queso-Queso at an Asian grocer near you.
No Mean Feat
Cynthia is the first Filipinaor make that Filipino!to get elected as Borough
Councillor in the United Kingdom. It is the highest position in the British
government that a Filipino has ever achieved. As Town Councillor for Elstree and
Borehamwood and Borough Councillor for Potters Bar, she represents residents
to make sure that they have access to services, improving their lives further, and
serving as a good example to them.
Never have I thought that I would become a public servant. Growing up, I was
very shy. But if I were to do my life over, I would still choose public service and I
would do it early so I could help more people. There is something so satisfying in
being able to make an impact on peoples lives and contribute to society, not just
in what you do but in who you are and what you have achieved. It is a privilege to
be able to inspire others and show that nothing is impossible when you work at
something.
23A 1 4 TH
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
ABS-CBN THE FILIPINO CHANNEL FWN VOLUNTEERS BENEL SE-LIBAN MOCA OLAES PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL IN
ROSARY ESPINA ELOISA RAMOS BERNADETTE SCHLUETER MYRNA YAO VANCOUVER
ROBERT RAMOS CHERINA TINIO ROSARIO CAJUCOM BRADBURY CONSUL GENERAL NEIL FRANK R. FERRER
THE BOULEVARD CLUB CONNIE LLOREN ROSAURA SANDOVAL DEPUTY CONSUL GENERAL LEO TITO L.
ERIC C. CHOU GLOBAL FWN100 FUND CRIS COMERFORD ROSIE JOSUE AUSAN, JR.
SONIA DELEN DELLE SERING SONIA DELEN ROBOTICS WORKSHOP SPONSORS
CANADIAN IMPORTERS AND EXPORTERS DOLLY PANGAN SPECHT TRINA VILLANUEVA ANITAB.ORG
ASSOCIATION INTERCONTINENTAL TORONTO CENTRE FRANKLIN RICARTE CAROLINE ENRIQUEZ
JOY NOTT FANNY TSE GLORIA T. CAOILE MUSICAL NOTES CYNTHIA BARKER
MARY ANN GAMBOA HAZEL DOLIO TAG-AT ORGANIZATION OF WOMEN IN JACQUELINE YU
CANADIAN TOURS INTERNATIONAL MICHELLE HALL JAY ANN LEYSON INTERNATIONAL TRADE JOJI ILAGAN BIAN
ANN CORBITT JESSETTE FAYE KALSI ANITA AGRAWAL
GLORIA SHAN LIGHT-CORE KEN MARQUIS PHILIPPINE EMBASSY IN CANADA TORONTO TOURISM COUNCIL
SHARON GILMOUR-GLOVER LEONOR VINTERVOLL AMBASSADOR PETRONILA P. GARCIA BONNIE HOWELL
DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY LIZA GINO AIMEE CUYA EMMA RAMSEY
PHILIPPINES MARILY S 2017 BIRTHDAY FUNDRAISER TO LILIA VILLANUEVA VINITA DAS
UNDERSECRETARY NORA K. TERRADO SPONSOR A 9-12 Y EAR OLD FILIPINA LOIDA NICOLAS LEWIS PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL IN YOLANDA CHEUNG
ASSISTANT SECRETARY NINI M. ALVERO CANADIAN GIRL TO ATTEND MUSICAL LOUIE GUEVARA ABAD TORONTO
CAROLINE MARTIN CODING WORKSHOP ON OCT 25, 2017 AT MARIA GREAVES CONSUL GENERAL ROSALITA S. PROSPERO
THE FILIPINA SUMMIT IN TORONTO, MARILYN DE CASTRO DEPUTY CONSUL GENERAL BERNADETTE
FILIPINA SUMMIT 2017 STAFF CANADA MARSHA CHEUNG GOLANGCO FERNANDEZ
ADRIANNA PINEDA AGNES UBALDE MILA LLORENTE
GIANNINA UY BAMBI LORICA MINERVA MONDEJAR STEINER
LEADERSHIP
14TH FILIPINA
GLOBAL SUMMIT
GLOBAL FWN100
Fearless
Wilma T Eisma
About the Filipina Womens Network
odds that some Filipina women will rise to the president Trafficking Awareness Campaigns
position in the private and public sectors worldwide. Immigrant Rights
The Vagina Monologues productions
FWN provides Filipina women with opportunities to One Billion Rising
share practical career and business experiences. This 3. Coalition Building
focus on actual career and business experiences, rather Annual Filipina Leadership Global Summit
than theory, from practitioners, corporate managers, 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the
entrepreneurs, elected / appointed officials, nonprofit World Awards
and community leaders, along with peer networking, are Pinay Power 2020 Reunion
the distinguishing features of FWN meetings. 4. Leadership Development
Filipina Women Who Could Be President
Our Mission: A Filipina Woman Leader In
Fellowship
Filipinas in Motion
Every Sector Of The Economy Boards & Commissions Appointments
Position Filipina women as economic and social Political Education Awareness Training and
contributors to the global economy. Voter Registration
FWN Fellows and Interns
Our Priority Issues FEMtorMatch
INTENSIFY MEMBER VALUE Pinay Speed Femtoring
Engage and partner with all members, understand their 5. Cultural Awareness
needs and expectations, and respond with value-added FWN Salo Salo
solutions to strengthen learning, leadership, professional Sheroes Monologues
Strategic Alliances with corporate Filipino
and personal development in their respective
employee affinity groups in all economic
workplaces and the Filipina community.
sectors especially organizations with global
employee populations.
CREATE, CAPTURE AND PROVIDE FIRST CLASS Filipina Global Leadership Series
KNOWLEDGE AND PROFESSIONAL LEARNING DISRUPT: Proud. Loud. Leading Without
The Filipina Womens Network (FWN) is a San Francisco Make FWN the most comprehensive source of A Doubt
based non-profit international advocacy organization information on Filipina pop culture, workplace learning, Book Tours
that seeks to increase the power of Filipina women as leadership, professional and personal development. Filipina Global Leadership Competencies
leaders and policy makers at all levels in corporate, Workshops
government, institutions and community organizations LEAD THROUGH TECHNOLOGY
to achieve economic and social justice and womens Leverage technology to engage members, capture
rights. knowledge, facilitate interaction, and deliver customized
products and services.
FWN provides the content; credibility and community
to help women of Philippine ancestry succeed in their SHAPE THE FILIPINA IMAGE
businesses and careers. FWN provides knowledge, Define the Filipina image and shape its future by being
products, education, research and a worldwide network the leading source of workplace data, trends, and
for Filipina women professionals. successful practices for Filipina women professionals.
25B 1 4 TH
Mabuhay! A MESSAGE FROM
THE FOUNDER & CEO
This year we gather at our annual Filipina Leadership happen again. Each of
Global Summit the 2017 Most Influential Filipina women us has an obligation
selected from nine countries Canada, Hungary, Jordan, to lead, to role model
Mozambique, Norway, Philippines, United Arab Emirates, and to amplify the
United Kingdom, and the United States proving that voices of each other.
Filipinas all over the globe are, indeed, IN MOTION. It is Make sure you have
amazing that Filipina women awardees are contributors a good talk with your
in all the economic sectors with emphasis in the tertiary fellow awardees. How
economic industries of healthcare and education. Our can you help her do
global footprint is growing. It is this indomitable spirit that what she loves doing?
gives us hope that our goal of a Filipina woman leader in How can she help
every sector of the economy by 2020 will be achieved. you? How can we
IMAGINE what we can all do together. bring along our next marilY moNDEJar,
The globalization of Filipina women in the diaspora. This generation of leaders? Founder & CEO
Filipina Womens Network
is a high-power gathering of inspiring women leaders and FWN is a network,
game changers coming together for meaningful discussions a network of Filipina women making their marks in the
on our courses of action in elevating the publics perception world. Pursue the work the Filipina Womens Network
of Filipina womens ability has started in promoting the
INFLUENTIAL: having the power to cause change;
to lead and developing the empowerment of Filipina
having power over the minds or behavior of others;
pipeline of next generation women. Lets go change the
intersection of accomplishment and renown.
Filipina women leaders. world.
We couldnt be more The 2017 Summits theme,
excited to host the summit in the bustling metropolis of Filipinas in Motion: Leading. Advocating. Impacting.
Toronto, Canada a city that encapsulates the vibrancy reminds us of the urgency for greater responsiveness
and dynamism of this years cohort of awardees. We and responsibility to ensure that our efforts to champion
have a line-up of global leaders, influencers, and public Filipina women remain relevant in spite of the dramatic
figures whose success stories, rich experiences and expert paradigm shifts happening all over the globe. It is a call
knowledge will surely provide unique insights to the to action: to take our places as leaders in our own fields,
sessions we have prepared. We are joined by extraordinary advocate for those who are silenced in a united voice, and
women: Undersecretary Nora Kakilala Terrado of the work towards the impact we want to see.
Philippine Department of Trade and Industry, phenomenal The stories we will share throughout the Summit should
business leaders Sheila Lirio Marcelo and Maan Hontiveros, open and elevate discussions in exploring solutions on
and Ambassador Petronila Garcia, the Philippines first how we can better enhance the profile of Filipina womens
woman Ambassador to Canada. capacities to lead in every sector of the global economy, to
The summit is about change. develop the next generation of Filipina leaders, and more
The summit is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Filipina importantly, to encourage Filipina women all over the world
women leaders selected for the Global FWN100 Awards to actualize their full potential. Make these stories ignite a
to be together in one place. This configuration, this fire in all of us to lead, advocate, and create a meaningful
composition of personalities together in Toronto, will never impact in society.
27B 1 4 TH
A MESSAGE FROM A MESSAGE FROM BOARD
PRESIDENT SUSIE QUESADA CHAIR MARIA BEEBE
Welcome to the 14th Annual Filipina Leadership Global Summit! I write this welcome message as a visiting Fulbright Specialist at the
Center for Bridging Leadership at the Asian Institute for Management
I am so happy you could join us this year in the vibrant city of Toronto. (AIM) in Manila. How apropos considering that AIM and FWN have
Our Canadian based members have been so helpful in making us shared interest in leadership that is inspirational and transformational,
feel welcome. If there is one thing I have learned since I joined FWN with one key difference; FWNs primary focus on the Filipina woman.
in 2007 it is that Filipinas are always in Motion! Hence our theme this
year-- On August 26, 2016, FWN launched DISRUPT2.0. Filipina Women: Daring
to Lead that I co-edited at AIM. That same day I received notice of the
Filipinas in motion: leading. advocating. impacting. approval of my Fulbright application. I am here for a month to share my
And it is so true! That is why I am so appreciative that you are expertise concerning critical discourse analysis, an interdisciplinary
approach that looks at language-in-use and the historical and cultural
spending this very precious time with us and join the dialogue about
forces that lie beyond language. Together with the faculty, researchers,
the future of the Filipina as leaders and advocates in the community.
and staff from throughout AIM, we are examining leadership stories
and seeking leadership themes. AIM participants are learning how to
Special thanks to our Summit Chair and FWN President-Elect Rosario write their leadership stories and relate these to their current work
Bradbury. She and our CEO Marily Mondejar have put together an setting.
engaging program so we can collaborate and discuss the issues that
are most important to the Filipino community here in Canada and One of the building blocks that made this possible is my engagement as
around the world. Your time at the Summit is your time-your time to an FWM member, board member, and now Chair of the Board. I first
network, educate, learn, collaborate and make an impact in the global met FWN at the 7th Leadership Summit in 2010 in Las Vegas where I did
community. a session on Filipina Women of the World. Global Development
Alliances. I was honored to accept the U.S. FWN100 award in 2011 and
Thank you for being a part of our 2020 mission to have a Filipina Global FWN100 award in 2013. Along with others, I co-edited DISRUPT
Leader in every industry across all sectors. Together we can achieve 1.0. Filipina Women: Proud. Loud. Leading without a Doubt.
this mission by continuing to lift each other up and shape the
generation of Pinay leaders. My fellow FWN members and awardees, on behalf of the FWN board, I
welcome you to the 14th annual leadership summit. I challenge you to
In FWN Sisterhood, imagine how you can make your FWN membership even more
meaningful. Our experience has shown that sharing stories of
Susie Quesada successful leadership can serve as an inspiration for others. During this
FWN Board President leadership summit, ask what you can do to contribute towards
achieving success for Filipina woman in every sector in countries where
we work as immigrants, expatriates, and overseas Filipina leaders.
Mabuhay!
29B 1 4 TH
HATS OFF
TO OUR CEO/FOUNDER
Congratulations to
Mary Ann Gamboa
Edna Concepcion and I have known each other since the late 1980s.
As the Mayor of the City of Chula Vista, the Council and I voted for
and appointed Edna to be a Commissioner making her the first
www.torontocentre.intercontinental.com female Filipino American Commissioner of the City of Chula Vista.
Edna served faithfully for 8 years. Our friendship continued to grow
even when I was in the California Legislature and had to spend most
of my time at the Capitol. Edna has always been dedicated to her
THANK YOU #FWNSUMMIT SPONSORS family, her career, and the community. She has, over the years,
handled most of my personal and financial investments. Edna is a
trusted financial advisor and mostly, a dear friend. - July 2008
Shirley Horton
California Legislator (2002 - 2008)
Mayor, City of Chula Vista (1994 -2002)
L I L A C S
FINANCIAL AND TAX PLANNING SYSTEM
After 11 years of being part of the Filipina ways to make an impact. And the more details by planting a seed of a seemingly impossible
Womens Network (FWN), Ive lost count of the of their trials and triumphs I learned, the less dream, then puts you right to work equipped
ways the organization has demonstrated what anything became impossible. with a roadmap and tools enough to keep you
Filipina professionals could be at their best. busy for a lifetime. But it doesnt let you do it
Whether as an executive, scientist, activist, We dont know what we dont know. The alone but acts as a family full of nanays, lolas,
educator, or artist, there is no mold to be part of traditional notion of a womans success from my and titas who shower you with tough love
FWN. It does have one imperative: forward and upbringing was some version of finishing school, every step of growth. As a result, your personal,
upward. getting a stable job with benefits, and settling cultural, and professional identities are cultivated
down. Therefore, it was pretty extraordinary with the purpose of realizing your greatest
We cannot unsee possibilities once we see when I came across women who did all that and potential and impacting society positively. And
them. I wasnt looking into joining a professional more, along with, women who altogether paved because of the deep cultural ties that connect its
network when I got connected with FWN in a completely different path for themselves and community, the depth of the FWN experience is
2006 but wanted to be join that years campaign defined success in their own terms. FWN affords immeasurable.
against domestic violence through The Vagina opportunities to learn directly from its circle of
Monologues production. In addition to learning sisterhood. Women have no choice but to be With the next Global FWN100 in the horizon,
about advocacy issues for women, I was exposed enlightened, molded, and challenged to lead I cant help but go back to the time when
to a completely different kind of Filipina women upon being in contact with FWN100 awardees FWN100was U.S. based and going global
spanning generations. Ones who broke taboos and sheroes of all kinds. Women who often was still on the wish list. Obviously it didnt
in parenting, et al, those unwavering in their come from humble beginnings and make it to stay there too long as the next few years of the
life choices, and those courageous enough to board rooms, and live a life of poetic struggle and summit are already mapped in different corners
move on from traumatic histories and inspire tenacious leadership in between. of the world. It has been a privilege to witness
others in the process. It was powerful to the organization evolve and be along for the
witness grandmothers, mothers and young Beyond fluff and inspiration. FWNs ride with hundreds of other Filipina women.
girls collectively speaking truth to the power greatest offerings, from my experience, are Im beyond excited for the FWN Pinay train get
of womanhood. Over the years, my world theinfrastructure and community it provides longer as it keeps moving forward and upward!
continued to expand the more I got immersed to any Filipina open and willing to create new
and exposed to a myriad of leadership styles and possibilities and do the hard work. FWN starts
31B 1 4 TH
FWN AGAINST
VIOLENCE:
The Campaign to end violence against
Filipina Women and Girls
In 2000, Claire Joyce Tempongko, a 22-year V-Day organization using theatre, popular is a high
old Filipina woman was stabbed multiple culture and education about the high population of
times in front of her two young children ages incidence of violence in Asian homes and Filipinos in the United
five and ten years old. Claire did all the right intimate partner relationships, the show is States: New York, New Jersey,
things, reported the sexual assaults to the San engaging the Filipino and Asian communities Washington DC, Las Vegas
Francisco Police, took out a restraining order, understand the broader connections of Asian and Toronto, Canada in 2017. In 2018,
and on the day of her murder, called SFPD values such as respect for women, dignity, FWN will include The Vagina Monologues
to report that her boyfriend was outside her family, equality and justice to the social and production in its annual Filipina Leadership
home and she was afraid for Global Summit in London. The campaign
her life. When help arrived, has continued on with the rise of human
it was too late. She was trafficking of women and girls as young
dead. Former City Attorney Ang PANGGAGAHASA ay krimen; as six years old.
Louise Renne chaired the
investigation into Tempongkos HINDI biro; HINDI dapat pagtawanan. ABOUT THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES
death and found the City of Hailed by The New York Times as funny
San Francisco liable. It took Kung kailangan ng tulong: and poignant and by the Daily News as
a Filipina womans murder 1-800-799-7233 intelligent and courageous, The Vagina
to overhaul San Franciscos Monologues, which
citywide response to domestic #FWNAgainstViolence was first performed off-Broadway by
#rapeNOTajoke
violence. Mayor Willie Brown Ms. Ensler, dives into the mystery,
RAPE is NOT a laughing matter.
convened the Justice and humor, pain, power, wisdom, outrage
Courage Oversight Committee National Domestic Violence Hotline and excitement buried in womens
to implement the Blueprint 1-800-799-7233 experiences. Through this play and the
for San Franciscos Response liberation of this one WORD, countless
to Domestic Violence, City women throughout the world have taken
Attorney Rennes set of control of their bodies and their lives;
recommendations to ensure giving voice to experiences and feelings
that domestic violence not previously exposed in public.
homicides are prevented. FWN An Obie Award-winning whirlwind tour
Founder Marily Mondejar was appointed to economic issues of class and religion. The of a forbidden zone, The Vagina Monologues
the Oversight Committee. campaigns mission is to encourage Filipina introduces a wildly divergent gathering
and Asian women in abusive relationships to of female voices, including a six-year-old
FWNs Anti-Violence Awareness Campaign take action and to seek help. girl, a septuagenarian New Yorker, a vagina
was launched in 2003 in response to the workshop participant, a woman who witnesses
2000 Tempongkos unsolved murder. It took FWNs Anti-DV Campaign has evolved to the birth of her granddaughter, a Bosnian
almost 10 years for Tempongkos murder to be include anti-human trafficking initiatives with survivor of rape, and a feminist happy to have
solved. It was a difficult period for the Filipino the San Francisco Mayors Office, CourtWatch found a man who liked to look at it.
community, a case that reached the California of DV homicides of Filipina women Witty and irreverent, compassionate and
Supreme Court. nationwide, rallies, support for legislation wise, Eve Enslers masterpiece gives voice
that protect women and girls in abusive to real womens deepest fantasies and fears,
What started in 2003 with what we thought situations, Handprints: Men Against Violence, guaranteeing that no one who sees it will ever
was a simple play with an all-Filipina women the publication of the V-Diaries Anti-Violence look at a womans body, or think of sex, in
cast, The Vagina Monologues has now become Resource Guide and the annual benefit quite the same way again
a key component for FWNs Anti-Violence performance of The Vagina Monologues. 2017
Awareness Campaign after many challenges is FWNs 12th year.
from the FilAm community because of the
V-word. In collaboration with Eve Enslers FWN has taken the show to areas where there
33B 1 4 TH
HAPPILY WRONG by Nikki Tang
I used to believe that a woman can I founded not one but two of Philippines front-running providers
never have it all that is, having of dermocosmetics and aesthetic beauty devices the DMark
a successful career and being a Beauty in 1998, two years after graduating from college, and the
fulfilled homemaker. This belief DermAsia Corporation in 2003. Having pioneered the concept of
was validated when my husband dermocosmeceuticals back home, I became CEO of DMark Group
and I separated ways when my of Companies, recognized as one of the biggest and most successful
kids were three and four years beauty entrepreneurial ventures in the Philippines today. I was
old. I used to believe that though able to build two of the countrys leading importers and distributors
a woman is capable of multi- of dermocosmetics and aesthetic devices just armed with a clear
tasking, she can never achieve that vision, a strategic mind, an unwavering passion, and that good,
harmonious balance of founding old Filipino-Chinese work ethics of prudence and hard work. I also
a company, building a brand, introduced the word Beautypreneur, in the Filipino entrepreneur
engaging in social advocacies, vocabulary. Beautypreneur is my tribute to entrepreneur moms and
HAPPILY WRONG fulfillment from volunteer work, women like me who breathe competence, confidence and a culture
by Nikki Tang and impacting other peoples lives. of excellence in a very competitive field of beauty products and
All this while raising good-natured young adults, attending PTA sciences. My children are my treasures, my workforce, my rock. My
meetings, managing the house, taking care of monthly groceries clientele, my source of energy, wisdom and motivation. All these
and bills. I used to believe that nothing can complete a woman, but make me happily wrong.
a complete family. I was wrong. I have proof that I was wrong.
35B 1 4 TH
SUMMI T SCHEDULE
Impacting Filipina Women in the members and their organizations have & CEO, Filipina Womens Network, 2:45 Pm Board shuttle Toronto City
Global Workplace contributed to one of the Sustainable lilian maria Soriano bautista, Senior Tour
We gather to collect our Development Goals (SDG), including Design and Application Engineer, 4:30 Pm Board shuttle to
combined experiences to find SDG 5 - Gender Equality and its Daikin Middle East and Africa FZE, Intercontinental Toronto
common ground. targets. The panel discussion will start Nieves confesor, Faculty, Asian 5:30 Pm Board shuttle to The
PAST: Where weve been with an introduction of the SDGs. Then Institute of Management, atty. Boulevard for Welcome Soire
PRESENT: Where we are each panelist will have 5-7 minutes Wilma Eisma, Administrator & CEO, 6:30 Pm - Welcome Soire led by
FUTURE: What we want to provide an overview of the global Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, Awesome, Fearless Filipina-Canadian
ACTION: How we get there problem and how her organization Jerrilyn malana, Chief Deputy Influentials
11:00 am Global Filipina Women: is contributing to a specific SDG and District Attorney, Human Resources, 7:30 Pm Search for the Face of
local to Global its targets. The panel and general San Diego County District Attorneys Global Pinay Power
Filipina Canadian Influentials participants will then break into small Office, Georgitta Puyat, Chair, 8:30 Pm Board shuttle to the
Europe and Beyond groups to brainstorm and highlight Philippine Orchard, Corp., maan Intercontinental Toronto Centre
USA what action could be taken to Hontiveros, Chair, AirAsia Philippines, 9:30 Pm Awards Ceremony
Philippines contribute to gender equality and any Justice milagros Eustaquio Syme, Rehearsal for 2017 Global FWN100
of the targets for any of the SDGs. Her Worship Justice of the Peace, and FWN Board Members
12:30 Pm Lunch, Talk and Kodakan Ontario Court of Justice, HoN Do NOT miss this rehearsal. We will
moderator: maria beebe cynthia alcantara barker, Town review the awards process, guidelines
1:30 Pm Global impact: How Speakers: leah l. laxamana, Councillor, Brookmeadow, Elstree & for your acceptance speech, awards
FWN is transforming the World Program Manager, Public Policy, Borehamwood; Borough Councillor, presenters, and what to do during the
- the United Nations Sustainable Twitter, Inc., HoN thelma boac, Hertsmere Borough Gala Awards Ceremony.
Development Goals (SDGs) Trustee, Berryessa Union School,
This panel will highlight how FWN HON Marily Mondejar, Founder 2:15 Pm Closing Acknowledgments
D AY T W O :
FRIDAY, OCT 27
8:30 9:00 am Welcome, Reform as a Womens Issue
acknowledgments & Summit NICOLE and KEEPERS OF THE
Weavers FLAME - Challenging the status
Speakers: HON Marily Mondejar, quo is a significant motivator
maria beebe, Susie Quesada, in the Filipina diaspora. How
Rosario Cajucom-Bradbury, Nini do you challenge? How did you
alvero challenge?
37B 1 4 TH
SUMMI T SCHEDULE
entrepreneurial legacy means, how U.S. and worldwide. For many Asian attendees Group Photo Sessions sponsors, 2017 Global FWN100
Filipina women entrepreneurs create companies looking to expand their awardees
change through their businesses, the reach, brand equity is the new must- 2:00 6:00 Pm make-Up room, by
roles they play in the workplace, and have asset. appointment Power networking with VIP guests,
how they have created a global imprint. sponsors, FWN Board Members and
Moderator: HON Marily Mondejar 2:30 5:00 Pm time capsule 2017 Global FWN100 Awardees
As Asian entrepreneurs extend their Speakers: Anita Agrawal, CEO and Project: Photo and Video Sessions,
international reach, the next chapter Designer, Best Bargains, Isabelita Lita by appointment 7:15 Pm 1:00 am Global FWN100
is the rise of Asian women businesses Abele, President and CEO, US Lumber, (Global100 Awardees & FWN Board 2017 Gala awards ceremony, Dinner
and brands. As the benefits of branding Inc., Myrna Tang Yao, President and Members ONLY) and Dancing
grow ever-more clear,Asian companies CEO, Richprime Global Inc. and Richwell Dress Code: Formal: Filipiniana/ Long
are investing heavily in strengthening Trading Corporation 5:30 6:30 Pm - Green room for Gown; Barong Tagalog/ Black Tie
their brand equity. Brand development Global FWN100 awardees oNlY
not only poses difficult challenges for 12:15 1:00 Pm Networking lunch
Asian-owned firms, but has apotentially 6:30 7:30 Pm viP reception with
huge impact on consumer choice in the 2:00 2:30 Pm Speakers, viPs, and FWN board members, viP guests,
D AY T H R E E :
SATURDAY, OCT 28
8:30 9:30 am Summit Weavers: The Insular Life Assurance Company,
our Journey so far... Ltd.
Speakers: HON Marily Mondejar, Speakers: caroline Enriquez,
maria beebe, Susie Quesada, rosario President and CEO, Our Lady of Fatima
Cajucom-Bradbury University, maria cristina bea Go,
President, BPI Family Savings Bank,
9:00 9:45am make me a Filipina mary Jane alvero al mahdi, Group
cEo Chief Executive Officer, Prime Group
What are the qualities of a Filipina UAE (Geoscience Testing Laboratory,
woman leader? How can we be be Prime Certification and Inspection
corporate savvy to get to the C-Suite? LLC, Prime Alpha Consultancy, Prime
Innova Training Center, Wilma amy
The message of Lean In for Filipina t. Eisma, Esq., Administrator & CEO,
women-on-the-rise. Implications Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority
for Filipina Women of the World. (SBMA)
Competitiveness and growth in the 9:50 10:35 am run Filipina run:
workplace. Joining the conversation, Filipina Women for Political Equity
sharing Lean In Moments, connecting Filipina women in public office is
with other Filipina women across the dismal. What can we do? How do we
globe. Is Lean In the answer to Filipina educate and encourage women to run
Global100 Power? for public office? How do we build our
talent pipeline? Can we make this a
An informal Kwentuhan (story telling) global campaign?
session (a la The View) among kindred
spirits of how being bi-cultural is both Meet the Filipina women who have run
a challenge and an advantage in the for office, as well as those who support
global workplace. or train women to run for office, and
get all the information you need to
Panelists are corporate executives decide whether you want to run.
who are not related to the large
organizations they manage and are 100 ACTION: Group conversations
Most Influential Filipina Women in the on issues raised by the speakers.
World (Global100) Awardees. Strategies and actions? 2 minutes for
each Group Report.
In the spirit of Lean In, prepare to share
your story of an ah ha moment or a 10:45 11:45 am - Filipina Women
challenge you overcame. in the Diaspora: How Women lead;
How Women actively Support the
ACTION: Group conversations Sisterhood
on issues raised by the speakers. This is a very informal Kwentuhan
Strategies and actions? 2 minutes for session (a la The View) among kindred
each Group Report. spirits on civic engagement, public
service, social and political action. Wed
moderator: mona lisa dela cruz, like the discussion to incorporate the
President and Chief Operating Officer, summit theme and the attendees to
39B 1 4 TH
SUMMIT LEARNING TRAC KS
Ambassador Petronila P. Garcia Philippines DTI Undersecretary Chair of AirAsia Philippines Care.com Founder, Chair and
Philippine Ambassador to Canada Nora K. Terrado Maan Hontiveros CEO Sheila Lirio Marcelo
Amabassador Petronila P. Garcia is Nora K. Terrado took on the TIPG Maan Hontiveros has been a student Sheila founded Care.com in 2006
a seasoned career diplomat, a Portfolio of the DTI in January and youth travel pioneer, a television after her personal challenges as
trailblazer for women in foreign 2016. As TIPG Undersecretary, she producer and host, journalist, a young working mother finding
service. Shes the first woman to be oversees the Foreign Trade Service publishing executive, multi-media care for two small children and
appointed Ambassador to Canada Corps (FTSC), Export Marketing production leader, staunch advocate ailing parents shed a spotlight on
and the first female Philippine Bureau (EMB), Bureau of Domestic for the conservation and protection the massive care needs of families
Ambassador to an Arab country. Trade Promotions (BDTP), Center of the environment, music industry everywhere. Today, the publicly
She began her tour of duty as the for International Trade Expositions managing director, and a passionate traded company is the worlds
Ambassador Extraordinary and and Missions (CITEM), Philippine promoter and supporter of Filipino largest online destination for finding
Plenipotentiary to the Arab Republic Trade Training Center (PTTC), and arts, film, dance, music and culture and managing family care, serving
of Egypt with concurrent jurisdiction Design Center of the Philippines. before she assumed responsibility as more than 22 million people across
over Sudan. As Governor of the Board of Chair of Philippines AirAsia, Inc. She 20 countries.
Investments (BOI), she provides is concurrently the Chair of AirAsia
Prior to her nearly four-year stint strategic direction on investment Zest. Sheilas belief in technology as
in Egypt, she represented the promotions and assistance a solution to solving global care
Philippines in various capacities Her passion for music led her to challenges developed during her
through her foreign postings in Prior to her appointment as the set up Warner Music Philippines as time as a management consultant
Singapore, Australia, South Africa, TIPG Undersecretary, she was Managing Director. At Warner Music and a teaching fellow at Harvard
and South Korea. Ambassador the executive leader for DTIs she worked closely with Warner Business School. Her growing
Garcia served as the Philippine Management Services Group (MSG). Music Malaysia MD and ASEAN appreciation for the power of
Ambassador to Israel from 2009- Among her key initiatives are the Regional Head, Tony Fernandes, who technology to help solve real
2011. Ambassador Garcia is a Ease of Doing Business (EODB), the later went on to shake up the aviation problems for people led her to
member of the exclusive Mensa Club, APEC Women and the Economy industry by establishing Malaysias Upromise, where she was VP of
an international group of individuals (APEC WE) and the DTI-wide roll and ASEANs first budget no-frills Product Management and Marketing
whose IQs belong to the top two out of the Performance Governance. airline which is now known as AirAsia. for the service that helped families
percentile. She was the Country Manager of save for college, and then to
Headstrong Philippines (a GENPACT executive search engine TheLadders.
Company) for over 10 years and com, where she was VP and General
the Site Leader for IT Services Manager. Following TheLadders.
for global customers engaged in com, she was an Entrepreneur in
Capital Markets, Financial Services, Residence at Matrix Partners where
Healthcare and Technology. she developed the plan for
Care.com.
In December last year, she made history by becoming the first woman to be appointed Administra-
tor of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), the government agency managing the Subic
Bay Freeport, now the countrys biggest and most progressive free port zone.
Nine months later, she topped that distinction by becoming the first woman Chairman-Administra-
tor of the SBMA when the Duterte government decided to entrust the agencys reins to just one
official.
As her historic ascent to the top was by no means easy, staying there wont be a walk in the park,
either. As chief of the SBMA, Eisma not only takes charge of the 2,700-strong SBMA workforce;
she also presides over the length and breadth of the 67,452-hectare special economic zone, the
1,500 registered locator-companies in the zone that had so far pumped in some $10-billion worth
of investments, and the more than 115,000 workers that the firms have employed.
Before taking over as SBMA CEO, she had served for 15 years as corporate, government and regu-
latory affairs manager of PMFTC, Inc., the Philippine affiliate of Philip Morris International.
There she worked closely with local tobacco farmers and earned for the firm international acclaim
for farmer programs, best practices systems and leading innovations in agriculture labor relations,
communication, and government relation strategies in supply-chain setting.
Those were very fruitful yearsfor the company, as well as for myself, Amy remembers. In that
job I became a catalyst for change, and succeeded in setting positive examples for creativity, initi-
ative and resourcefulness.
Amy T. Eisma: Leading with a heart: Meeting kids Under her direction, the various PMFTC public affairs and contribution programs received interna-
during a community outreach project in the Subic tional awards in corporate social responsibility. Moreover, her knowledge in government processes,
Bay Freeport culture and engagement helped bring about the enactment of the Philippine Tobacco Regulatory
Act of 2003 and the amendment to the Excise Law in 2005 and 2012.
Amy T. Eisma (third from right, front row): With members of the Philippine trade delegation to Japan
41B 1 4 TH
COVER STORY
Its where I learned the art of being prepared, methodical and decisive, and
the need to make informed decisions, Eisma now recalls. Most of all, it
was in SBMA where my passion for community service, my malasakit for
my country, was kindled. Now Im trying to spread this same passion to my
co-workers at the SBMA. Amy T. Eisma: Inspiring stakeholders cooperation during the
International Coastal Cleanup in the Subic Bay Freeport
From the SBMA, Amy went on to serve as chief of staff of the Secretary of the Department of Trade and
Industry from 2000 to 2001, then as head executive assistant and legal counsel to the House of Representa-
tives Majority Floor Leader from 1998 to 2000jobs that further molded her integrity as a leader.
Whatever decisions I make now is based on the moral compass that I was able to develop as I matured.
Whatever choices I make today is determined by my sincerity to do good that I have learned early on, she
now says.
Rightly or wrongly, I took on this job because I remember this was the best
experience in my young adult lifethis SBMA family. I really felt like I was
going home, she says.
I have a feeling I was chosen for this position so I can be the rallying point,
Amy reveals. I have always maintained that I will look after the SBMA interest,
not anything else.
And how can she, a woman, make a difference in a world ruled by eight men
before her?
Its the heart that would set me apart, she answers readily. I approach my life
with a heart that takes care of people first.
But wouldnt that be taken as weakness? Not so, opines Amy, who asserts that
she could face toe-to-toe any male leader in terms of capacity and tenacity.
Id like to think that its my strength, she counters. When people know that they have a leader who has their backs no matter what,
they get inspired. They will work harder, be more dedicated, be more focused because they dont need to worry about themselves.
to leadership
and service
creates
opportunities,
inspires
ambition and
encourages
achievement.
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