March marked Women’s Month, a time to honor the achievements and contributions of women across the globe. In the vibrant startup ecosystem of the Philippines, this annual observance takes on special significance. The event highlights the pivotal role of women entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders in driving innovation and growth.
In recent years, the Philippines has witnessed a remarkable surge in the number of female-led startups. Women entrepreneurs have made strides in various industries, from technology to social entrepreneurship. Trish Reposo of Weremote, Alyssa Wee of Dormy, and Sam Blanquera of Shoppable Business have become prominent figures, inspiring others with their vision, resilience, and commitment to making a difference.
Photo (from left to right): Alyssa Wee (Dormy), Trish Reposo (Weremote), Sam Blanquera (Shoppable Business)
Celebrating Trailblazing Women
During Women’s Month, the Filipino startup community comes together to celebrate and amplify the voices of these trailblazing women. Events, forums, and workshops are organized to provide a platform for female founders to share their stories, insights, and experiences. These gatherings not only showcase the achievements of women entrepreneurs but also foster networking opportunities, mentorship, and collaboration.
One such event was the Women Entrepreneurship Summit organized by Go Negosyo, a nonprofit organization. The yearly event is a celebration of women’s achievements and contributions to society and the economy in various fields and industries. It also advocates for the integration of digitalization that supports women-led enterprises.
Weremote, for its part, fully supports diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It’s a company with a mission to be a catalyst for success for other organizations. Weremote’s workspaces, such as the one in Makati Central Square, have become favorite venues for events that gather startups and venture capitals as well as entrepreneurs for a day of networking and exchanging of ideas. Its co-founder and CEO, Trish Reposo, has become a familiar face in many women’s fora. She was recently a guest speaker in the “Leading Her Way” summit organized by Flair Image Consultancy. There she shared her expertise and experience of being a woman leader in an ecosystem that is traditionally male-centric.
Support for Female-Led Startups
In addition to formal events, Women’s Month also sees the launch of initiatives aimed at supporting female-led startups. Business competitions, accelerators, and incubators offer funding, mentorship, and resources specifically tailored to women entrepreneurs. These programs play a crucial role in addressing the unique challenges faced by female founders and helping them overcome barriers to success.
She Loves Tech, for example, is a global startup competition focused on women-led and women-impact tech startups. It provides a platform for female founders to showcase their innovations and connect with investors and industry experts. Winners receive access to funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities, enabling them to scale their ventures and make a positive impact in their communities. Last year, Alyssa of Dormy was among several Filipinas nominated for the She Loves Tech Global Finals.
Sparking Conversations
Beyond formal initiatives, Women’s Month also sparks conversations around diversity, inclusion, and gender equality in the startup ecosystem. Leaders and stakeholders in the community reflect on the progress made towards achieving gender parity and identify areas for improvement. Companies and organizations reaffirm their commitment to diversity and inclusion, pledging to create a more equitable playing field for women entrepreneurs.
Women’s Month is not only a time to celebrate the achievements of women in entrepreneurship but also a call to action to address systemic barriers and create a more supportive ecosystem for female founders. By fostering collaboration, providing resources, and challenging gender norms, the startup community can unlock the full potential of women entrepreneurs and drive greater innovation and economic growth for the Philippines.
If you’re looking for a coworking space that is conducive for productivity and growth, no matter if you’re a woman leading her first venture, check out Weremote to see for yourself why it’s more than just a coworking space.
Visit Weremote’s website to explore membership options and become a valuable part of a community where success is not just encouraged but cultivated. Reach out to us at hello@weremote.com today.
Weremote stands as a community where professionals and businesses thrive, offering a dynamic environment for growth. As the coworking brand of Wrkspace Office Management and Solutions Inc., Weremote continues to foster professional development and build vibrant communities. Weremote is a portfolio company of AHG Lab, the largest independent venture builder in the Philippines.
