EPAHAYAGAN #878
SAN FRANCISCO, January 31, 2025 – As 2025 unfolds, Filipina women are already transforming the global stage with fearless leadership and groundbreaking innovation! The Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network (FWN) proudly celebrates our trailblazing FWN leaders who defy limits and pave the way for others to rise. What barriers will they shatter next?
WITNESSING HISTORY: CALIFORNIA ASSEMBLYMEMBER JESSICA CALOZA’S SWEARING-IN
In a historic moment that transcended the pouring rain outside, California Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas administered the Oath of Office to Asm. Jessica Caloza as more than 800 voices erupted in jubilant celebration. The significance of the occasion was reflected in the distinguished guests in attendance—California State Treasurer Fiona Ma, LA County Supervisor Hilda Solis, and Assembly members from across the state—alongside community leaders, entrepreneurs, and young changemakers who gathered to witness this milestone.
Asm. Caloza’s swearing-in marked not just the start of her tenure but a defining moment for District 52, a diverse community shaped by Filipino, Latino, and Armenian heritage. As the applause settled, Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network founder and CEO Marily Mondejar addressed the young women in the audience with a message of inspiration: “To our young Filipina girls here today, to all young women of color – take a good look at Assemblymember Caloza. You can be like her. Jessica has paved the way for you.”
Her words underscored the power of representation and the responsibility of leadership—not only to break barriers but to create opportunities for others to follow.
L-R:
Benel Se Liban, US FWN100™ 2011;
Melissa Orquiza Global FWN100™ 2015;
Joy Murao, Global FWN100™ 2018;
Marily Mondejar, FWN CEO;
California Assemblymember Jessica Caloza Global FWN100™, 2021;
Arlene Ferrolino Global FWN100™ 2021;
Vina Lustado, Global FWN100™ 2015,
Edith Winterhalter, Global FWN100™ 2016,
Ninez Ponce, Global FWN100™ 2019
Watch and/or read her full speech here.
maria ressa
Global FWN100™ 2014
CEO & Executive Editor, Rappler
PHILIPPINES
On January 25, 2025, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa stood before a global audience at the Jubilee of the World of Communications in Vatican City, delivering a message that resonated far beyond the walls of the gathering. She spoke of a world undergoing profound transformation, where technology, once a tool for connection, has become a weapon for manipulation, eroding trust and deepening division.
The Jubilee of the World of Communications, held from January 24 to 26, 2025, convened journalists, writers, and media leaders from around the world to reflect on the evolving role of communication in society. The event featured a cultural dialogue between Ressa and acclaimed writer Colum McCann, alongside a deeply meaningful meeting with Pope Francis—reinforcing the responsibility of storytellers to uphold truth, bridge divides, and strengthen the fabric of global discourse.
Marily mondejar
Founder/CEO, Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network
UNITED STATES
ELLEN SAMSON
Global FWN100™ 2019
Geriatric Care Manager/President, American Geriatric/Filipino American Chamber of Commerce - Greater Los Angeles
UNITED STATES
The COFACC Leadership Awards & Gala Night recognized outstanding leaders dedicated to business and community development. Marily Mondejar, President of the Foundation for Filipina Women's Network (FWN), delivered a keynote on FWN’s mentorship programs and the role of women leaders in driving change. Ellen, a Founding Board Member of COFACC and Founding President of the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Inc., was acknowledged for her leadership in building COFACC into a national organization and advancing the foundation’s mission as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting Filipino American community groups.
“Marily Mondejar delivered a powerful and inspiring speech at the Coalition of Filipino American Chambers of Commerce (COFACC) Leadership Awards and Gala Night, attended by Fil-Am chambers from across the U.S. She highlighted FWN’s advocacy for women’s empowerment, leadership, and mentorship, aligning with COFACC’s mission to elevate Filipino business leaders. Her message resonated deeply, earning a rousing applause. She also had the honor of presenting the prestigious Chamber of the Year award, making the evening even more memorable.” - Ellen Samson
hon. rechie valdez
Global FWN100™ 2022
Member of Parliament for Mississauga, Minister of Small Business
CANADA
Hon. Rechie Valdez was honored with the Leadership in Canadian Business Award at the Hua Cai Awards. The award was presented by Dr. Vivienne Poy, a former Canadian senator and the first Asian Canadian woman to be appointed to the Senate. Valdez, who is also recognized for her advocacy work on diversity and inclusion, expressed her deep appreciation for the recognition, emphasizing the importance of celebrating the contributions of Asian Canadians to the nation's development.
Read her full message here.
kristine custodio suero
U.S. FWN100™ 2012, Global FWN100™ 2022
Senior Paralegal, Butterfield Schechter LLP
UNITED STATES
Kristine Custodio Suero has been appointed by the San Diego County Board of Supervisors as a Commissioner for the Commission on the Status of Women and Girls and elected as Chair.
As Chair, Kristine will work alongside dedicated leaders, advocates, and community members to advance equity, opportunity, and empowerment for women and girls across San Diego County. The Commission is focused on addressing the challenges women and girls face while celebrating their achievements and potential.
Get to know the full details of the DisabilityNext Summit here.
DR. JENNIFER CAMOTA LUEBKE
Global FWN100™ 2022
President and CEO
Relay Resources
UNITED STATES
Dr. Jennifer Camota Luebke, President and CEO of Relay Resources and a Global FWN100™ 2022 honoree, is leading the launch of the DisabilityNext Summit, a first-of-its-kind event to be held on April 10, 2025, at Portland State University’s Viking Pavilion.
The summit will focus on strategies for creating inclusive, accessible workplaces where individuals with and without disabilities can thrive together. It is aimed at C-suite executives, human resource leaders, and key figures from government, higher education, and nonprofits committed to transforming workplace practices.
The summit will feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, and fireside chats on various aspects of disability inclusion. Orlando Williams, CEO of Motus Recruiting and former Portland Trail Blazers TV analyst, will serve as emcee.
mary massina
Global FWN100™ 2024
CEO, Mary Ann's Island P/L
AUSTRALIA
Beginning this year, Mary Massina assumed the role of Managing Director, Enterprise Marketing and Research Services (EMRS) at Tasmania's leading social and market research agency.
More 2024 Milestones from Mary Ann’s Island P/L:
South Arm Irrigation Scheme: Successfully completed 7km of underwater pipe under challenging conditions, secured critical approvals, and advanced residential Class A water use.
Gellibrand Point Nature Recreation Area: Delivered a 3,600-page Environmental Management Plan, conducted significant cultural heritage assessments, and progressed key infrastructure designs for future development.
cynthia rapaido
U.S. FWN100™ 2011
Educational Leadership Coach, Alameda County Office of Education
UNITED STATES
Dr. Cynthia Rapaido had the honor of presenting at the 2025 Hawaii International Conference for Educators (HICE), where she shared her insights as a Filipino American leader in K-12 education.
Drawing from her personal experiences, Dr. Rapaido highlighted both the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Filipino American educators and leaders in the field. She also discussed ongoing initiatives aimed at supporting and empowering this community, shedding light on the importance of cultural representation and inclusion in educational leadership.
laarni san juan
U.S. FWN100™ 2007
Public Health Nurse, San Mateo County
UNITED STATES
Laarni San Juan has spent her career championing leadership and femtorship, empowering others to rise. Now, as she steps into her new role as FWN Ambassador for Northern California, we gather to celebrate her unwavering dedication and the collective strength of Filipina women in leadership.
Join us for a special gathering to honor Laarni’s contributions and the impact of Filipina women leaders shaping our communities and beyond.
Date: Sunday, February 23, 2025
Time: 11:30 AM PST
Location: Palm Court, RH San Francisco Gallery
This event is a no-host lunch.
RSVP required by February 17, 2025.
Scan the QR code to register or visit ffwn.org/events.
ACTION NOW
Send our way exciting updates about your career, business, or advocacy work.
If you, or a Filipina woman you know, is an elected or appointed official at the city, state, or federal level in any country, please send the details including a photo so we can feature on ePahayagan and on https://filipinawomensnetwork.org/elected-and-appointed-officials webpage.
If you are awarded a grant or accepted into an accelerator or fellowship, share with us your news.
Send your updates, along with photos and complete details, to epahayagan@ffwn.org by February 12, 2025. Let’s celebrate your success!
