The Hillside Echo Magazine Vol. 83, Issue No. 1 - 2022

Women, throughout history, have also been marginalized—they have always been judged, mistreated, and misunderstood by society. With a simple tea with friends, on July 13, 1848, Elizabeth Cady Stanton shared her disappointment about why women were not free and could not have active societal roles. From then on, 150 years later, women emerged strong, independent, and most especially empowered, and they are now celebrating the rights that women before them fought for. They are now conquering all adversities life throws and slaying the universe head-on.

This year, The Hillside Echo features wonderful stories about WOMEN and their plights and breakthroughs. Highlighting the notion that women are not just women and that they too can be capable of doing things no matter how patriarchal society can be.

In this magazine, we offer you, dear readers, empowering stories of different women in society and community

that transpired change and created a mark and positive impact on people that knows or will get to know their stories. I am glad to say that up from the production, cover photoshoot, and editing were done by strong, skilled, and determined women of the publication.

Now, you may wonder why a male editor presents this issue to you. But does it matter? It does not. No matter who you are or what gender you may be, a feminist is not just a woman’s job alone. Regardless of our gender, we should make a stand and defend them for they have already suffered enough. Women’s rights are human rights and this time, let their voices and stories be amplified.

I am proud to say that all the editors put so much time and effort to give you eye-opening and life-changing stories. The HSE’s very own Nicole Carmela Flores devoted herself to helping coastal communities and became a marine biologist.

Get to know Rica Salomon, who petitioned for transgender students to

have the freedom to express themselves, leaving a mark in Ateneo.

Dedicating her life to helping those people who have lost sight of their core and their faith in God, Pastor Roquita Grande, had this innate desire in herself to become a pastor.

In this day and age where disinformation, misinformation, and free speech are rampant, repressed, and threatened, there is Maria Ressa, the first Filipino to win the Nobel Peace Prize for her bravery and courage in the field of journalism, fighting for the truth, always, in all ways.

As you flip the pages of this magazine, may you realize how these women work hard to be seen and let their stories be known. Keep reading and be inspired by the stories of these strong and empowered women. Who knows, maybe you will be empowered too.

Editor-in-Chief

CONTENTS

04

A Queen More Than Just Crowns and Gowns

In a glittering spectacle, a woman who is more captivating than her adversaries is put under the limelight. But more than just the looks, the charm, and confidence evinced on stage, what more can a beauty queen manifest?

06

Conquering

the Virtual Battlefield

One may think that playing and streaming online games are for men and men alone; but every time her smartphone lights up at 10 PM, AA’s regular room transforms into a pink arena.

19 Nakatadhanang Misyon ng Tinakdang Mamamalakaya

Katulad ng isang pastol sa isang malawak na kaparangan, ginugol ni Pastora Roquita Grande ang halos ilang dekada ng kanyang buhay upang gabayan at akayin ang mga Kristiyanong nalugmok sa kawalang pag-asa at naliligaw ng landas tungo sa tamang daan.

09

Kandili sa Sining: Mundong

Kinulayan para sa Kababaihan

Ang masilayan ang kaniyang ganda, minsan ay nakakalungkot na hindi nakikita ng mga mata. Nagkataong nariyan ma’y hindi naman napahahalagahan, animo’y mga bulaklak sa harding namumukadkad ng iba’t ibang kulay ngunit dinadaan-daanan lamang.

12

Illuminating the Darkness Within

As the night progresses, she climbs to her bed and rolled herself up in blankets, ready to fall into a deep slumber. As she waits, her eyes fixate on the ceiling; her mind wanders consciously into the unknown, contemplating the things she cannot control.

16

Diving to Where the Deep Water Meets our Future

Women are no longer confined to the tales of the sea and exploring the boundless blue is no longer a man’s job alone.

22 Living Her Beautiful Truth

Transgender people still receive inexplicable hate and experience various forms of violence in this heavily-religious society. Fitting in with the world is a stumbling block they ought to survive as they live every day.

26 Lakambini ng Kagitingan, Lingkod ng Bayan

Kagitingan, katapangan, at paninindigan ang sandata laban sa iba’t-ibang uri ng pang-aapi. Kasamaang susupilin ng pagtindig at pagkilala sa karapatan. Karapatang ipinaglalaban dahil iyon ang nararapat na makamtan ng kaniyang nasasakupan.

33 ENVISIONING: A Female Student Leader’s Perspective on Climate Change

Global problems need global action. In today’s world where patriarchy still prevails and the voice of the youth is continually being silenced, this is enough validation that we should be more engaged when it comes to climate change.

29 No Flaws, No Issues: Live Selling for My Dreams

Screaming at the top of their lungs just to persuade interested virtual buyers, these are often the words you can hear from videos of live sellers shared in social media platforms during the onset of the pandemic.

31 Tapang ni Maria: Labanang Pluma at Papel ang Sandata Noong panahong nagbukas ang kalangitan at nagpaulan ng katapangan at katalinuhan, may isang mapalad na Pinay ang hindi pinalampas ang bawat patak nito. Bawat butil ng mga nasabing katangian ay buong puso niyang inialay sa pakikipaglaban para sa bayan gamit ang natatanging larangan, ang pamamahayag.

A Queen More Than Just Crowns and Gowns

In a glittering spectacle, a woman who is more captivating than her adversaries is put under the limelight. But more than just the looks, the charm, and confidence evinced on stage, what more can a beauty queen manifest?

Words by Vanessa Glenise Usison Photo courtesy of Aries Lazaro

The world of pageantry has always been deemed a competition that gives high value and emphasis to judging and ranking the physical attributes of the contestants. However, Aries Lazaro, 21, hailing from Panay, Capiz, manifests versatility, excellence, substance, and intelligence— and joining beauty pageants is just a vehicle to showcase her skills and fulfill a much greater purpose.

“I see beauty pageants as a channel for women like me who want to empower and be of service in the community,” Aries said.

She joined several beauty pageants such as Baliktaran 2016, Miss Nutrition Month 2017, Campus Star 2019, and has recently been crowned as Miss Tawi Cares 2021 among beautiful delegates coming from different municipalities of Capiz.

“Being a beauty queen is a privilege because women like me have been given a platform where we can use our voice to promote the things we know will empower the community,” she added.

Before being hailed a beauty queen, Aries has long been engaging in different school organizations to serve her fellow students and the community. The beauty queen is a volunteer for several activities organized in the first district of Capiz and has rendered service in the community through mobile pamahaw, feeding programs, and gift-giving. She helped in the distribution of food packs and CD kits, offered a hand in medical missions, and participated in community service clean-up in different municipalities in the province.

According to the beauty queen, being of service in the community feels like a responsibility she wants to hold forever because she wants to help the community in her own ways.

At a young age, Aries developed a wide perception of the world, opportunities, goals, and achievements. She does not just conform to the word “good” but strives to achieve excellence in things she does because she believes, to the mind that is still the whole universe surrenders.

“I believe that every beauty queen has her own way of empowering or being of service to the community, it really depends on each person’s core,” Aries shared.

Aside from fulfilling the responsibilities affiliated with the crown, she also serves as an epitome of a modern woman who seeks to contribute to the development of

society in several ways. Aries likes making content on empowering the community and encourages people to be the best version of themselves.

One of the beauty queen’s advocacies is “neurodiversity.” According to her, it is a factor that affects everyone’s well-being and it is oftentimes neglected. That's why giving light to it will help people to be aware, understood, and represented. She has shed light on neurodiversity in the way she interacts with people; she makes sure people are being understood, she lets them know they are not alone, and if they happen to say they feel different, she lets them know it is normal.

“The best way I can do (to give attention to “neurodiversity”) is through social media; every time I post on Facebook, I make sure it is inspiring, that when people look at my wall they will feel light and feel motivated,” she sincerely shared.

Aries added that she might not be that famous but she believes there is someone out there who is looking up to her. She can help them feel motivated through her posts even in an indirect way; she believes it is one of the most effective ways in giving light and upholding neurodiversity.

Apart from being an advocate of neurodiversity, Aries also advocates for eradicating unemployment not just in the province of Capiz but in the country.

Outside the prestige of competing in beauty pageants, Aries is a committed student pursuing Business Administration, majoring in Operations Management. With this, she can create content that gives insights to her audience on how they can work, learn, and earn from home. Her advocacy allows the members of the community to have the opportunity not just to earn, but also to boost their confidence and help them in fulfilling their and their families’ needs through employment. Contents on motivation, job descriptions, where to apply, possible salary, pros and cons, job opportunities like typing jobs, being a social media manager, an online tutor, microtasks, and a lot more are available on Aries’ YouTube channel—Aries Lazaro.

“I chose this way of empowerment because I know it is a broad way to influence people and help them achieve bigger opportunities to earn at home,” Aries articulated.

Aries believes that in this way of empowerment, there will be a contribution to economic development and people will have an increase in purchasing power to be able to support or purchase from local businesses. Thus, when local businesses begin to flourish and expand, there will be a need to hire more people. Moreover, this platform and advocacy create a macro effect. As a result, more people will get a job, which will contribute a significant role in the economy as it has a very vital role in the country.

“This is something I am really serious about. It’s not just helping the people, not just helping the community, but [the] economy itself,” she passionately said.

Aries believes that a better economy makes lives better. She is hoping that her platform and advocacy will have a ripple effect, a huge impact, not only here in the province but the whole Philippines.

Furthermore, besides being a beauty queen and a content creator, Aries is also an achiever. She is versatile enough to handle diverse things in diverse ways—she was chosen to represent the province in a Business Pitch Competition in Singapore, she is also a Global Communications awardee, currently working with one of the innovative real estate firms in Florida, and has judged pageants and hosted several events.

Behind Aries’ prismatic canvas of character and mindset, is a phenomenal woman who encouraged her to be the person she is today—full of love and passion.

“I am a strong woman because a strong woman raised me. (My mom said) ‘Don’t be like me, be better,” Aries proudly shared.

Aries Lazaro is a beauty queen who not only wears a crown on her head but carries her heart as well. She is beautiful, wise, passionate, and a lady of substance.

“You don’t have to go out of your shell if you don’t want to. I understand that spotlight is not everyone’s cup of tea; you can stay wherever you are for as long as you feel fulfilled already,” Aries said.

In the light of Aries’ point of view, it is never wrong to acknowledge fear; but it is always important to bear in mind that a woman can only reach her highest potential when she gets out of that comfort zone.

“I believe that every beauty queen has her own way of empowering or being of service to the community, it really depends on each person’s core.”—Aries Lazaro

Conquering the Virtual Battlefield

One may think that playing and streaming online games are for men and men alone; but every time her smartphone lights up at 10 PM, AA’s regular room transforms into a pink arena. She’s got her pink headphones on, a smirk on her face, and a glisten of determination in her eyes. You might think that she’s just another pretty face on camera, but as soon as she goes livestream—she’s ready to slay the enemy.

Words by Michael Jay Demingoy and Jimil Faith Caputero Photo courtesy of AA Alvarez

FROM NOOB TO EXPERT

AA Alvarez started online gaming way back during her high school days. After school, she would usually run to an internet cafe just to play online games like League of Legends (LOL) and Rules of Survival (ROS) because she did not have her own gaming personal computer (PC) at that time.

“My brother, Will Alvarez is the reason and [the one that influenced] me [to become] an online gamer,” AA recalled. She remembered how her brother put up a gaming PC and engaged in online streaming. Like a coach, AA’s brother would let her play on the gaming PC and even influenced her to start live streaming as well.

From that point on, playing online games evolved from a fun hobby to a lustrous career for AA. What started as a one-viewer live stream prospered to 182,000 Facebook followers who tune in to her page just to watch her slay trending online games such as Rules of Survival, Dead by Daylight, Valorant, Mobile Legends, and Call of Duty. On top of that, she is also an endorser of Non-Fungible Token (NFT) games.

"From my perspective, people may also watch your stream [depending] on what personality you have shown to them. They will love to watch your stream if you're just being true to yourself," AA expressed.

“The virtual arena should create a progressive community that promotes collaboration, respect, and understanding among gamers.”

Outside her gamer persona, AA is an Engineering student at the University of San Agustin. Balancing her student life and career as a streamer can become quite a challenge, but AA recognizes the significance of time management to obtain the best of both worlds.

"Time is very important to me. I set time [for] my studies and set time to streaming," AA emphasized.

STRUGGLING TO FARM EXP IN THE INDUSTRY

It cannot be denied that online gaming and streaming is a highly male-dominated industry. The issue with female online gamers is an ongoing stigma rooted in their gameplay—how they interact and play with other players. Women make up 41% of the gaming population and have spent up to US$600 million on console games and almost US$1 billion on mobile games in Southeast Asia alone according to a study by Partnersomen. However, the prejudices and discrimination against female gamers/streamers are still an ongoing battle.

Undeniably, trash-talking, regardless of gender, is extremely common in games, especially in mobile Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA), but the insults, snide remarks, and gender-biased discrimination directed at women are offensive and derogatory. Most male players automatically think that female gamers are "tanga" and "useless". This can probably be attributed to misogynistic thinking that women are inferior to men, and they can never play as good as men.

"Yes, some viewers [are] commenting that I am not good [at] playing the game, but I know [in] myself [that] I am improving through their hatred [of] me," AA shares about some of her toxic encounters in streaming.

A survey of 2,000 female gamers conducted by FandomSpot.com found that 76% of female gamers have concealed their gender while playing, and 93% of them reasoned out that they want to protect themselves from online sexual harassment. Also, one out of five women feels unsafe or uncomfortable using a microphone while gaming, and 25% of all respondents have quit a game because of the abuse they received. These numbers do not lie; it only mirrors how women are unfairly treated not only in virtual gaming arenas but also in the workplace and the community.

"People may just bash me and pull me down, but I still choose to focus on those people who really support me in general since they are the people that inspire and [are] important to me." AA firmly stated. She added that self-confidence and determination are also important weapons to bring out her A-game.

However, even though female gamers are on the rise, the lack of female representation in the industry affects the motivation and behavior of the spectators

and executives in this field. Equality and opportunity in the gaming industry can only be achieved if the gaming platform will address the culture of the workforce, product, and the player community. In line with this, only 5% of video games have female protagonists, indicating a lack of female character representation in the industry. According to numerous studies, female characters in video games are frequently objectified and hypersexualized, perpetuating gender stereotypes. When not shown in this way, female characters are frequently shown to be a man's love interest, naïve and dim-witted, or a damsel in distress.

WIPED OUT THE ENEMY, LET YOUR VICTORY ECHO

Not all of AA’s experiences and interactions with male players are unpleasant. Some players are also cool, supportive, and respectful. Some of those random players turned into friends because they made the game fun, and interactive—proving that the game itself can be a room for a healthy community to flourish.

"Meeting other streamers with [whom] you feel comfortable playing with, is the best part of being a live streamer. I have encountered people who play the same game I play, we collaborate and make memories," AA shared.

There are also gaming organizations and programs like Women in Games Ambassadors Program, Girl Gamers Philippines (GGP), and Women in Games, among others, that provide a safe space for women and advocate for equal treatment, from casual gaming to the professional level. Members of Girls Who Game PH responded and emphasized their point that gaming companies should take reports and incidents more seriously, especially if the harassment is sexually, racially, or gender-charged. According to the respondents, this ought to benefit in discouraging bad behavior in games.

"To those who plan to stream and like to play games like me and if you're inspired by your favorite streamer, just continue what you love and enjoy what you want to do in the gaming community. Being a gamer is not just for men, and especially it's not a gender choice. I started having one viewer, then it will grow to hundreds. Just be yourself, girl!" AA shares to aspiring online gamers and streamers.

Gaming was created for friends, acquaintances, or even strangers to bond and enjoy as they take on a virtual journey. It should not be a lair where verbal abuse, toxic masculinity, and gender-based discrimination prevail. The virtual arena should create a progressive community that promotes collaboration, respect, and understanding among gamers. In the real world, however, the game for fairness and equality is far from over. True victory is only relevant if everyone is given the same playing field, to begin with.

Kandili sa Sining:

Mundong Kinulayan para sa Kababaihan

Walang ritmong sinusundan ang mga hiblang pinagkumpol-kumpol na tinangi para sa kaniyang kakayahan. Sa pagtampisaw nito sa malapot at makulay na bahaging naghahandog ng samo’t saring pag-unawa, nagkakaroon ng buhay kung ihahaplos na sa telang inilaan para sa kanyang kapahingahan. Puso at isip na ang magdidikta ng tunay na kahulugan kung bakit siya nilikha ng kamay na hinandugan ng pambihirang biyaya.

Mga Salita nina Alyza Pamillaran at Thoen Ann Socobos Mga Retrato ni Thoen Ann Socobos

Kadalasang nakakubli sa isang silid o nakasiksik sa gilid ang mga obrang minsan nang pinaglaanan ng puso at panahon. Ang masilayan ang kaniyang ganda, minsan ay nakakalungkot na hindi nakikita ng mga mata. Nagkataong nariyan ma’y hindi naman napahahalagahan, animo’y mga bulaklak sa harding namumukadkad ng iba’t ibang kulay ngunit dinadaandaanan lamang. Gayunpaman, hindi nagbabago o nababawasan ang halaga ng anumang bagay dahil hindi ito binibigyang-pansin ng mga hindi marunong magpahalaga at hindi nakakaalam ng tunay nitong halaga.

PAGSASABUHAY NG TALENTO

Tanawing nilikha ng Maykapal, sinabayan ng natatanging talento at imahinasyon na ginamitan ng mga kamay, mata, pandama at minsan pa’y bibig o mga paa na inilatag sa kuwadradong espasyo na nagsilbi bilang kanilang tirahan. Lugar kung saan malayang naipapahayag ang sari-sari nilang emosyon na naging parte na ng kanilang buhay.

Maituturing na ang kinalakihan niyang pamilya ay may talento at pagpapahalaga pagdating sa sining at musika. Panganay sa apat na magkakapatid at anak nina Lucio Manuel at Delia Dela Cruz, si Lucille C. Manuel ay lumaki sa tahanan na may kakaibang kakayahan sa naturang larangan. Ito’y naging bahagi ng kanilang mga usapin at kalauna’y maging ang kanilang pamumuhay.

Sa edad na anim, natuto na siyang gumuhit at sa mahigit dalawampung taon niya bilang visual artist , iba’t ibang obra na rin ang kaniyang nagawa.

“Art is a way of life. Art is a gift from the Giver of life itself. It is also a gift from the most beautiful artist, which is God. Because we are all created, we are all like a painting,” malumanay niyang tinuran na may galak sa kaniyang mga mata.

Sa kabila ng pagkahilig sa paglikha ng mga nakahahalinang disenyo sa bawat niyang obra maestra, kinagigiliwan rin niya ang pagtugtog ng piano, at pagsusulat ng mga tula. Sa katunayan, si Ginang Manuel ay isa ring Interior Designer.

LIKHA PARA SA ADBOKASIYA

“Painting is really a gift.”

Kinakatawan ng bawat niyang likha ang mga kababaihang pinipilit na kinukubli ang sarili mula sa pang-aapi, mga babaeng may naiibang katangian, at mga babaeng hinuhusgahan ng lipunan samantalang hindi batid ang bawat dahilan sa likod ng mga kaganapan. Adbokasiya ni Ginang Manuel sa kaniyang mga obra ang mga babaeng minsan na ring pinagkaitan ng sariling kalayaan at karapatan. Hindi rin mawawala ang sitwasyong kinalalagyan at patuloy na nararanasan ng mundo sa kasalukuyan—ang pandemya.

Kailanman ay hindi niya pinagdamot sa iba ang talento na sa kanya ay ipinagkaloob. Bukas-palad at buong-puso na ibinabahagi ni Ginang Manuel sa iba ang kanyang angking talento kung saan kaniyang ipinamalas ang malasakit sa mga nakakaranas ng paghihirap.

Sa pamamagitan ng conceptual art na ginagamit bilang istilo ng pagpipinta ni Ginang Manuel, mas

“Women should be given the leeway to have their own pacing, to have their own creativity... If we (women) are together, we might be or we can show our talents. You’re giving a group na you can be [or] you can think as a woman, you can think of who you are as a woman artist [with] no restrictions.”

—Lucille Manuel

nabibigyan ng halaga ang mga isyu at problemang kinakaharap ng mga kababaihan. Ilan sa kaniyang mga obra ay tungkol sa babaeng may autism (adult), battered women, prostitution, abortion at kasalukuyan naman niyang ginagawa ang tungkol sa depression at schizophrenia. Ang kaniyang mga likha ang nagsisilbing tulay upang maisulong ang kanyang mga adbokasiya para sa mga kababaihan.

“Painting is not just for beauty but also conveys advocacy to certain the awareness of people [who] should be reminded of such reality and problems in life. Painting does not only make you happy when you see it. A painting also portrays a message and advocacy. And of course, the inner language of the soul of the artist is herself,” pahayag ni Ginang Manuel.

Isang relihiyosong tao si Ginang Manuel at ang kaniyang paboritong gawa ay “Boat by the River” na kung kaniyang pagpapakahulugan ay tungkol sa paghihintay. Kaniyang tinuran ang salita mula sa Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God," kung saan kaniyang binibigay lahat sa Panginoon ano man ang mangyari at kagustuhan Nitong mangyari para sa kaniya.

LIPON NG PUSONG MAY PANGARAP

Mistulang naging lagusan ng oportunidad para sa mga indibidwal na hindi nakatatanggap ng suporta at motibasyon, at mga pinagkaitan ng pagkakataon na maipakita ang kakayahang kadalasang binabalewala nang umpisahang itatag ni Ginang Manuel ang isang samahan. Sa paglalayong tipunin at hubugin ang talento at kakayahan ng mga kababaihang pintor sa Capiz, inilunsad noong 2021 ang Association of

Capiznon Women Visual Artist, ang kauna-unahang kapisanan sa probinsya ng Capiz na binubuo ng mga babaeng may puso para sa larangan ng sining. Kaagapay sa pagbuo ang Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Capiz sa pakikipagtulungan ng Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office.

“Women should be given the leeway to have their own pacing, to have their own creativity… If we (women) are together, we might be or we can show our talents. You’re giving a group na you can be [or] you can think as a woman, you can think of who you are as a woman artist [with] no restrictions,” mga katagang may galak na binitawan ni Ginang Manuel.

Sa kasalukuyan, binubuo ng 32 all-women visual artists na nagmula sa iba’t ibang munisipalidad ng Capiz ang naturang kalipunan. Upang makatulong sa pagsulong at pagpapalawak ng kamalayan tungkol sa sining, kabilang sa kanilang proyekto ang magtungo sa iba’t ibang lugar sa Capiz upang magturo ng mga aralin na nakasentro sa sining, magsagawa ng workshops, at magtanghal ng exhibit. Bukod dito, sa lingap ni Mrs. Tina Santos Ong, kaibigan ni Ginang Manuel, naisakatuparan ng samahan ang pagkakaroon ng isang galerya kung saan halos isang taon nila itong pinangarap.

Kadalasan ay nasa ilalim lamang ng anino ng mga lalaking artista ang mga kababaihan. Subalit nang dahil sa isang lipon na may iisang layunin, pokus, at interes, nagkakaroon ang bawat kasapi ng tahanan kung saan magaan at malaya nilang naipapahayag ang kanilang kakayahan at emosyon nang walang natatanggap na diskriminasyon at panghuhusga.

Illuminating the Darkness Within

As the night progresses, she climbs to her bed and rolled herself up in blankets, ready to fall into a deep slumber. As she waits, her eyes fixate on the ceiling; her mind wanders consciously into the unknown, contemplating the things she cannot control. The feeling gets heavier and heavier—she is suffering behind closed doors. She wanted to scream for help. She wanted everything to stop. But it seems that no one could help her.

Words by Michael Jay Demingoy and Ysabelle Ann Besorio

INVISIBLE AND UNKNOWN

Belle Âme* felt like she was constantly responding to an alarm system. Her heart rate raced and she felt that she was competing for her much-needed air in a crowd. Losing control over her emotions, and the happiness of other people is not at all times contagious.

“It makes me feel miserable because I can’t be that happy person and I pitied myself for that. Also, I have lost my interest [in] my studies and most of all, I have lost myself,” recalled Belle Âme.

A time came when she was rushed to the hospital because she could not breathe, like there was a heavy thing on her chest, as she would describe it. Tests showed that there was nothing wrong with her heart, pointing her experience instead to her emotional problem after her grandmother’s death.

“But one thing I’m sure [is] that all that I was experiencing that time was foreign to me and it was really scary,” said Belle Âme when asked what she felt after she was diagnosed with major depressive disorder and anxiety.

Until she experienced those symptoms, Belle Âme had no idea that depression and anxiety were real. Even if someone's suffering is invisible, it doesn’t mean it is not real. Many people are sitting through pain in silence.

DISPARITY

Depression and anxiety disorders can happen to anyone. However, according to the World Health Organization, depression and anxiety disorders are more common among females than males. Depression also manifests differently in women and there are types of depression that affect women alone.

There is no single cause behind mental health struggles. Hormonal changes, brain chemistry, and socioeconomic factors are frequently mentioned behind the disparity. However, the WHO links the higher risk of developing a mental disorder to people who are exposed to adverse circumstances such as poverty, violence, disability, and inequality.

According to the United Nations Global Compact, women are underrepresented across businesses, receive unequal pay for equal work, and continue to be targets of physical and sexual abuse. Considering the challenges faced by women until now, such gender differences may come not as a surprise.

ON A MORE SERIOUS NOTE

It took her time before she explained her situation to her family because she was scared of the disappointment she might bring and the cost of the treatment. Consulting a psychiatrist is another thing that people with mental health issues avoid because they might be labeled as “crazy” and

people who do not understand their situation might just say “it’s all in your head,” but in reality, it is not.

“Mental health should be taken seriously…we are talking about someone’s life, either you can save them or not. Just always be kind enough to not judge them, instead be that one person who will lead them out of the darkness,” Belle Âme strongly stated.

People who are suffering from mental health issues should be loved and understood, not ridiculed or stigmatized. Each one of us has silent battles, we should always be considerate about the feelings of others, and we should always choose our words wisely because we do not know what they are going through. Through these, we can help reduce the barriers that hold them back from seeking help.

“Although there’s a lot of people helping me, checking on me, and making me feel loved, at the end of the day, I always felt lonely and trapped in the darkness that I can’t find my way out,” she recalled.

BY NO MEANS THE END

She stopped schooling for a year to ultimately focus and give time to herself, she then found solace and turned herself back to God. With the outpouring of love and support from her family, friends, and teachers, she found herself back together again although anxiety attacks sometimes find their way.

“You cannot give up on yourself because your family, friends, and above all our God loves you. You are not alone in this battle,” she advised.

Belle Âme’s story takes us to a difficult human experience that reveals what love from others can do. The surrounding stigma pulls down those who climb to escape the darkness. What we can do without the stigma has a subtle power in fortifying their strength and will to fight.

“It’s crucial to make them feel that they are understood and heard because it will motivate them to keep on fighting,” Belle Âme emphasized.

WHAT CAN WE DO

While they fight for what is in themselves, we can stand forcefully for the help and kindness that they deserve. We are all responsible for making a world that will remind and inspire them to keep fighting. We can help make the world less frightening as the darkness they face.

“Sometimes you’ll get tired, hopeless, and confused about what’s happening and you will feel that the depth of your soul is embracing [the] darkness that you cannot escape. But always remember that there’s always a way out if you will not stop searching for it,” Belle Âme concluded.

*Not her real name

“Each one of us has silent battles, we should always be considerate about the feelings of others, and we should always choose our words wisely because we do not know what they are going through.”

“Giving every woman access to the same opportunities and resources will help them thrive and support society towards an ecologically and economically sustainable world.”

—Nicole Carmela Flores

Diving to Where the Deep Water Meets our Future

Women are no longer confined to the tales of the sea and exploring the boundless blue is no longer a man's job alone. They are now steering their roles in seas and oceans, a possibility that would have not been imagined back in 1872 when the HMS Challenger, which gave birth to modern oceanography, set out without a woman on board. Even the waters are not just a man's world alone.

Words by Ysabelle Ann Besorio Photo courtesy of CaPENRO

RESHAPING SCIENCE

Science, just like anything else, had to learn that women, too, are leaders and change-makers. The current progress in gender inclusiveness in scientific fields is anchored on a history that young women should know. Her Deepness Slyvia Earle would be remembered for making ripples in a field dominated by men as a woman pioneer in marine science.

“I have read lots of stories of struggles and challenges from women in science. I may say that I am one of the lucky few to not have experienced what they experienced, maybe because I am surrounded by empowered women in my circle.”

So recalls Nicole Carmela Flores, a marine biologist and head of the Coastal Resources Management Section of the Capiz Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (CaPENRO). Describing the reproductive cycle and number of spawning events of bivalve species in Pilar, Capiz is one of Nicole’s works to help the local government formulate a management approach toward sustainable exploitation of such resources.

FOR THE LOVE OF THE SEA

Medicine was supposed to be the path for Nicole after taking up Biology, but the sound of the sea calling shifted her course. Captivated, she dived deep down to answer the call—and discover the fascinating, mysterious world of Marine Biology.

“The moment I saw the underwater world, I instantly fell in love and told myself that this is what I want to do,” she retold.

Being a marine biologist, which she thought was only for the smartest kid in school, would eventually fulfill her love for the ocean and all its wonders and mysteries. She started as a technical writer at CaPENRO, but her love for nature, drive for fieldwork, and dream of Scuba diving led her to earn a license in Open Water diving and explore greater depths. Destiny, as she would describe it, brought her to discover a world that is unknown to many.

BREAKING THROUGH THE SURFACE

Pursuing a career in Biology, as society would dictate, is never seen as a pragmatic choice in terms of professional status. As licensure exams are non-existent for Biology graduates, Nicole’s credibility as a biologist was challenged by some of her colleagues. Eager to prove her capabilities, she decided to pursue a Master’s degree in Biology and specialize in Marine Biology. But what began as a personal journey of accomplishment transformed into a greater purpose when she started doing various fieldwork in the coastal community. Nicole devoted her service to the people of coastal communities who rely on the bounty of the seas for livelihood and survival.

“When the communities started to initiate their own environmental activities, I then feel like all our hard work is paying off one step at a time,” she said.

Crashing on rough waves is inevitable for Nicole as she tries to balance work and studies, but quitting remained a course she would never want to take. Her innate passion for marine science, and the inspiration she obtains from helping the coastal communities continually give her the strength to break through the surface.

“They need real science to help better their coastal environment. They became my inspiration and the reason why I am still here working as a marine biologist,” she added.

CHANGING THE TIDES

The depths of this environment’s problems may be overwhelming but for a hero working closely in the coastal environment, seeing the local community understand the importance of the environment gives her hope. Nicole and the CaPENRO-CRM partner with LGUs, barangays, and communities in scientific data gathering in coastal resources as well as in the conservation, protection, and restoration of the coastal environment.

“We can’t immediately see the improvement in the status of the environment for just a year… but when we see the efforts of the community, we feel more motivated to continue reaching out to people and empower them,” she pointed out.

Women are now offering their expertise and interest to integrate conservation and protection with the needs of communities. Not too far from mermaid stories, women's love for nature binds the seas and the people beyond the shore. Empowering Capiznons and achieving an ecologically sustainable and resilient Capiz, the advocacies of CaPENRO, are also Nicole’s advocacies.

“With the help of the empowered coastal communities, I believe that the fishing sector will not be among the poorest in the province especially when the status of the coastal environment will improve, supporting healthy marine life for a sustainable livelihood.”

SIRENS OF THE SEA, HEROINES OF THE FUTURE

The 2022 International Women's Day themed "Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow" encapsulates the role and contribution of women in creating a sustainable future. Empowering women and championing their roles not only in marine conservation and protection but also in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) equates to empowering communities and saving our future. Excluding them in formulating policies and taking action is failing to recognize that there are solutions at all.

“Women are making positive changes in society and the world needs to understand and see that women are not just born to be housewives or mothers or belong to a career appropriate to them as labeled by society. Women can STEM too,” Nicole emphasized.

Opportunities in STEM must also be as wide as the sea for every woman. Empowering women in education, the workplace, and anywhere else is needed by the planet to ensure that future generations will have deep-sea wonders to witness.

“These people inspired me to not let gender bias stand in our way in conserving, protecting, restoring the environment, and helping the fisherfolk through a science-based and ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management,” she said.

Many of today's problems are inseparable from the ocean. Empowering women with close ties to the sea and beyond is an action against a larger threat to our planet. According to a new report by the climate research organization Project Drawdown, education increases the resilience of women and girls to climate disasters.

“Giving every woman access to the same opportunities and resources will help them thrive and support society towards an ecologically and economically sustainable world,” asserted Nicole.

For women who are aspiring to pursue a career in science and nature conservation, Nicole has a message: “The world needs you. The environment needs you. Mother Nature needs you. The marginalized sector of the community needs you…We need you to help us better our world for the future generation.”

Nakatadhanang Misyon ng Tinakdang Mamamalakaya

Payapa at kampanteng nanginginain ng sariwang damo ang isang kawan ng mga kordero sa matarik na dalisdis na binabantayang maigi ng isang pastol. Mapa-araw man o gabi, upang masiguro ang kaligtasan ng mga maamong tupa mula sa banta ng mga mababangis na hayop at nakaambang panganib sa paligid, alerto at maingat na nagmamasid ang nasabing pastol lalo na kung ang mga tupa ay wala sa kani-kanilang kural.

Mga Salita nina Thoen Ann Socobos at Reynan Joel Ecamina Mga Retrato mula kay Pastor Roquita Grande

“Hindi lang babaeng nakipaglaban para sa karapatan at kalayaan. Isang magiting na babaeng nagpaunlad sa aspetong espiritwal at nagpapatibay ng pananampalataya ng bawat indibidwal. Isang alagad ng Diyos sa pangangaral ng Kanyang mga Kautusan upang maging gabay sa sangkatauhan.”

Katulad ng isang pastol sa isang malawak na kaparangan, ginugol ni Pastora Roquita Grande ang halos ilang dekada ng kanyang buhay upang gabayan at akayin ang mga Kristiyanong nalugmok sa kawalang pag-asa at naliligaw ng landas tungo sa tamang daan. Bagama’t maraming hamon at balakid ang kanyang pinagdaanan bago pa man tuluyan na naging ganap na pastor, kailanman ay hindi nawala sa kanya ang nag-aalab na determinasyon at dedikasyon para makapaglingkod sa kanyang kapwa at lalong higit sa Diyos.

Hindi matatawaran ang papel na ginagampanan ng mga pastor sa buhay ng isang tao, partikular na sa paghasa sa espiritwal na aspeto ng bawat tao. Upang sumibol at lumago ang pananampalataya ng isang indibidwal, buong puso nilang ibinabahagi ang kaalamang ipinagkatiwala sa kanila. Bagama’t may mga pagkakataon na nakakakilala sila ng mga taong tulad ng isang leon kung saan handang umatake sa tuwing nakakarinig ng mga sermon na hindi ayon sa kanilang gustong mapakinggan, nananatili pa rin silang tapat sa kanilang pangako hanggang sa tuluyan nilang maisakatuparan ang kanilang misyon na gawing tupa ang dating isang animo’y mabangis na nilalang.

DEDIKASYON, DETERMINASYON, AT PANGARAP

“Gusto kong maging doktor,” “Ako naman gusto kong maging inhinyero,” “Gusto kong yumaman at tulungan ang aking mga magulang.” Mga pangarap na kadalasang bukambibig ng mga bata habang kumikislap ang mga matang mapupungay na puno ng pag-asa. Ngunit sa pagtakbo ng panahon at habang nagkaka-edad, untiunting nagbabago ang direksyong tinatahak dala ng iba’t ibang salik na maaaring makaapekto sa takbo ng kanikanilang buhay.

Sa murang edad pa lang, nabatid na ng batang Roquita Grande ang propesyon na nais niyang tahakin sa kanyang paglaki—ang maging pastor. Dahil siya’y maagang naulila at kinailangang pansamantalang lumisan sa kanilang tahanan upang mabuhay, wala syang ibang pinangarap kundi ang makapagtapos ng kanyang pag-aaral. Lahat ng hirap at pait ng buhay na kanyang naranasan ay nagkaroon ng matamis na bunga. Ang pagluhod niya ng tatlong beses sa isang araw habang nagdadasal sa Diyos na makatapos ng pag-aaral ay kanyang naisakatuparan. Sa katunayan labis at liglig pa ang ipinagkaloob sa kanya kung saan ang kanyang kahilingan ay hanggang high school lamang ngunit nakapagtapos siya na mayroong Master’s degree.

Matapos niyang matanggap ang kanyang diploma sa kursong Bachelor of Arts major in Theology noong 1974, nag-umpisa na agad siyang maglingkod bilang pastor sa loob ng dalawang taon sa Capiznon Kasapulanan of Baptist Churches Incorporated (CKBCI). Ang CKBCI ay isang organisadong panlalawigan sa Capiz na binubuo ng 52 na simbahanan ng mga Baptist mula sa Circuit A, B, at C. Pagkatapos ng kanyang obligasyon sa CKBCI, sa hindi inaasahang lugar at pagkakataon, naging guro siya sa departamento ng kindergarten sa loob ng anim na taon sa Filamer Christian Institute (FCI), kilala ngayon bilang Filamer Christian University (FCU). Subalit bago pa man siya mag-umpisa bilang isang guro ay hindi na naging madali ang proseso ng kanyang buhay. Dahil sa kakulangan sa karanasan, kinailangan niyang magaral muli at makapasa sa Board Exam upang maging ganap na isang tagapagturo na matagumpay niyang naisakatuparan.

Dahil sa kanyang natatanging kakayahan at dedikasyon, nakita ng administrasyon ang kanyang potensyal na nag-udyok upang ilipat siya bilang propesor sa kolehiyo at naluklok bilang Christian Education Director. Ang oportunidad na ito ay maituturing na isang panibagong hamon sa karera ng buhay ni Pastor Grande. “Sir, indi ko pag-ibutang sa college. Indi ko kaya. Indi ko kaya ang college.” Katagang paulit-ulit nyang sinasambit habang walang tigil sa pagpatak ang kanyang mga luha sa harap ni Dr. Victor A. Dela Cruz, Sr., na nagsilbing pangulo ng Filamer Christian College (FCC) sa loob ng anim na taon. Sa kabila ng pagdududa sa sarili, muli niyang tinanggap ang hamon.

Sa katunayan, kabilang siya sa nagtaguyod at coordinator ng Center for Biblical and Pastoral Studies (CBPS), na dating kilala bilang Capiz Bible Institute (CBI). Sa pangunguna ng CKBCI at sa pakikipagtulungan ng Capiz Evangelical Church (CEC) na nagbigay ng lugar at pasilidad, binuksan ang CBI bilang tugon sa pangangailangan ng Pastoral leadership partikular sa mga rural na simbahan sa lalawigan ng Capiz. Ito ay pormal na inilunsad sa pamamagitan ng isang resolusyon ng CKBCI sa Asembleya nito sa Camburanan Baptist Church, Tapaz noong Abril ng 1989 na nananawagan para sa pagtatatag ng isang Bible School. Napagdesisyunan ng CKBCI na ipagkatiwala sa FCC na may layuning patatagin ang programa at gayon na lamang ang saya na kanyang nararamdaman nang makapagtapos ang pito niyang mga estudyante. Kalauna’y, inaprubahan ng Commission on Higher Education (CHED)

ang kursong AB Religion, sa ilalim ng College of Arts and Sciences na ngayon ay kilala na sa tawag na AB – Theology. Sa kabuuan, tatlumpung taon siyang nagbigay ng serbisyo bilang isang guro sa FCU at nagretiro noong 2008.

PANIBAGONG YUGTO, PANIBAGONG MISYON

Sa bawat pintong nagsara, may panibagong pinto ang magbubukas. Ganito ang naging takbo ng buhay ni Pastora Grande. Matapos ang kanyang pagreretiro, nag-umpisa siyang muli sa bagong misyon na binigay sa kanya ng Diyos. Dinala siya ng kanyang mga paa sa Dumarao, Capiz at muling naglingkod bilang pastor sa Aglalana Baptist Mission Church. Nakilala niya rito ang kanyang dating estudyante at mainit siyang inimbitahan na dumalo sa isang seminar na konektado sa misyon na kanyang isinasakatuparan— ang pagsisimula ng organisasyong Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed (AWANA) sa lalawigan ng Capiz.

Layunin nitong hubugin hindi lamang ang espiritwal na aspeto ng mga kabataan, kundi ang kanilang buong pagkatao, at ipakilala at matuto ang mga ito tungkol kay Hesus sa masaya at aktibong paraan. Tuwing sasapit ang araw ng Sabado, hindi mahulugang-karayom ang simbahan dahil nagtitipon ang mga kabataan mula sa kalapit-bahay ng simbahan at maging ang mga Ati sa lugar ay nakikilahok din upang lumago ang kanilang pananampalataya sa Diyos habang nagsasaya at mas nauunawaan ang mga talata sa Bibliya at mga espirituwal na katotohanan. Sa pakikibahagi sa gawaing ito, nagkakaroon ng pagkakataon ang bawat bata na magkaroon ng panibagong kaibigan at mapatatag ang kanilang pisikal na aspeto sa pagsali sa mga laro at aktibidad.

Bawat halakhak ng bata ay nagdadala ng labis na galak sa kanyang puso at dalisay na ngiti sa kanyang mga labi. Sa bawat batang nakikilahok, ang tanging layunin niya ay unti-unting maipakilala si Kristo Hesus at tanggapin bilang Tagapagligtas. Bagama’t hindi maiiwasan ang hindi pagkakasundo sa kahit saang lugar ng trabahuhan, mas pinili niyang ipagpatuloy at pagtuunan ng pansin ang kanyang layunin. “But I am happy na ang AWANA, nagasige man dyapon,” nakangiting sambit ni Pastor habang inaalala ang mga panahong isa pa siya sa mga nagtuturo sa mga kabataan.

Bukod pa rito, sa loob ng dalawang termino, nanungkulan siya bilang Pangalawang Pangulo sa

Federation of Convention Baptist Women's Missionary Union Inc.,. Ang nasabing organisasyon ay binubuo ng mga kababaihan mula sa iba’t ibang panig ng Pilipinas na naglalayong makamit ang tatlong misyong kinabibilangan ng (1) Sanayin ang mga kababaihan na maging pinuno; (2) Sanayin ang mga babae na maging katulong ng pastor, tumulong sa pastor at simbahan; at (3) buhay tahanan at pamilya.

KAPANGYARIHAN NG PANANALIG, PAG-ASA, AT PAG-IBIG

Si Pastora Roquita ang nagpapatunay na walang mataas na pader, matinik na daan, at maalong karagatan kapag taglay ng isang indibidwal ang pananalig, pag-asa, at pag-ibig. Pananalig na walang matinding suliranin kung ang Diyos ang nakaalalay sa iyo. Ang pananalig na may kaakibat na paniniwala at pagtitiwala sa magagawa ng Maykapal. Ang pag-asang pinanghahawakan sa dulo ng madilim na daan, isang maliwanag na kinabukasan pa rin ang paroroonan. Kahit sa isang porsyentong posibilidad ay umaasang makaaahon mula sa matinding pagkalugmok. At pag-ibig na kailan ma'y hindi matutumbasan ng kahit anong bagay sa mundo. Sa puso ni Pastora hindi nawala ang pag-ibig sa sarili, pamilya, kapwa, at higit sa lahat sa Diyos. Mahaba ang lakbayin ng tao sa mundong ito. Nakabatay sa ating pagsisikap at uri ng pamumuhay ang magiging katapusan nito. Nakikipag-unahan tayo sa ating mga kalaban kaya kung sino ang matitira, siya ang magtatagumpay. Pinili ni Pastora Roquita Grande ang daan kung saan siya tinawag bilang isang babaeng mangangaral. Hindi iyon ang daang tuwid na madaling lakbayan. Ito ay ang daang makipot, matinik, at puno ng pagsubok.

Hindi lang babaeng nakipaglaban para sa karapatan at kalayaan. Isang magiting na babaeng nagpaunlad sa aspetong espiritwal at nagpapatibay ng pananampalataya ng bawat indibidwal. Isang alagad ng Diyos sa pangangaral ng Kanyang mga Kautusan upang maging gabay sa sangkatauhan. Pagsinop sa sangkatauhan at mailapit sa Diyos, sa ganitong paraan niya natuklasan ang kanyang kabuluhan sa mundo. Kalimitan man nating masaksihan na isang lalaki ang nakatayo sa pulpito at nangangaral at nagbabasa ng Banal na Kasulatan, kamangha-mangha naman na sa paglipas ng panahon ay naging bahagi na ito ng karapatan para sa kababaihan.

Living Her Beautiful Truth

When was the last time you watched a trans woman in film or TV?

It is undeniable that trans characters are underrepresented in Filipino media. Their plights, victories, and journey are still far-fetched for the Filipino audience to understand. Hence, transgender people still receive inexplicable hate and experience various forms of violence in this heavily-religious society. Fitting in with the world is a stumbling block they ought to survive as they live every day. Despite this, the continuous rise of social media influencers paved the way for voices and stories to be heard—which is one of the reasons why there is still hope that perhaps one day, society will fully accept how beautiful and powerful the trans community is.

Words by Ma. Estelle Antonette Vaflor Photo courtesy of Rica Salomon

BORN EMPOWERED

Rica Salomon, 30, is on her path to becoming one of the most influential TikTok stars, with more than 200,000 followers and 13 million likes. She uses her experiences as a proud trans woman and uses her influence on social media to spread awareness and dismiss the hate to her audience, especially among her fellow Filipinos.

Born and raised in Manila, Rica graduated with a degree in AB Interdisciplinary Studies (Psychology and Communications track) at Ateneo de Manila University. She currently works as a professional makeup artist and is also the co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Kayu Beauty, a makeup brand that was launched this year.

For Rica, she has always identified herself as a woman ever since she was a kid, she felt like “she didn't have the right words or knowledge to explain what she felt or who she was, but she has always known that she is a woman."

“I never really had a moment na hindi ako natanggap. I’ve always been supported by my relatives and my family, and I was never questioned for my gender or sexuality,” Rica answered proudly.

Her father is an active supporter of his daughter. He had been featured on GMA Network’s 24-Oras and the

Philippine Daily Inquirer for raising an empowered trans daughter. When Rica joined Miss Trans Global in 2021, her family had always been beside her.

Rica has enjoyed creating content on YouTube since she was young. She never expected that the videos she does for fun would skyrocket on TikTok. Receiving negative comments from the educational videos about the trans community that she posts did not stop her from doing what will help the community. Right now that her range has reached millions, she serves as one of the voices that shines through the dark and hateful corners of social media.

THE UNFAIR REALITY

The world out there can be tough as nails for the trans community. Rica still considers herself privileged— living a sheltered life, unlike her trans siblings that might have struggled in their very own homes or even at school to fight for their right to education. In this society that can be unpleasant, and it is undeniable that the trans community can be subject to discrimination.

Rica emphasized that the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual +) community remains unprotected here in the Philippines as there are no laws protecting them from discrimination,

hate, and threats. While spreading awareness on different social platforms may help in informing a bunch, the trans community remains to be in danger as they live in this country that provides no violations to those who oppress them.

“There are spaces that openly discriminate me. May mga times na I was asked to leave a certain place because they don’t allow trans women, they don’t allow crossdressers.”

Society’s gaze has created a stereotype of how should a person look according to their sex assigned at birth. Things that were taught to us and what we perceive were important factors in exploring ourselves and knowing who we are. Sometimes, the hardest struggles that we had to face primarily lie within ourselves. We are living in a heteronormative society—where trans people, whose gender identity does not conform to the sex assigned at birth, are still viewed differently.

Transphobia, as defined by the United Nations Free & Equal, is the irrational fear, hatred, or aversion towards transgender people and this comes in different forms including prejudice and violence to name a few. Rica herself has experienced internalized transphobia and described it as “it has always been at the back of our heads that a woman should be considered a woman if she can give birth.”

Transphobia, internal or not, enables discrimination toward the trans community.

Aside from transphobia, one of the greatest battles Rica had to face was gender dysphoria. The American Psychological Association (APA) refers gender dysphoria to the psychological distress that results from an incongruence between one’s sex assigned at birth and one’s gender identity. Given the stereotype that this civilization has come through, it is one of the problems among trans people to experience this sort of crisis.

“But I think for me the greatest struggle talaga is to overcome your insecurities, overcome the things that invalidate you as a person.”

Adding the fact that external factors such as discrimination may also affect a trans person’s perception of themselves, Rica admitted having moments where she had to fight her self-doubt by self-affirming a positive mindset. It was never easy knowing that there are people who wouldn’t understand her struggle but she strives to have courage in mind regardless of how the world views her.

DISPROVING THE MYTHS

Rica stressed the importance of educating ourselves with SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression). Sexual orientation is different from gender identity. Surgery is not a prerequisite for a person to be called transgender. It is the trans person’s decision whether to classify themselves into a certain gender or not. For example, trans women that are attracted to men are heterosexual or known as straight, they can also be bisexual and be attracted to both men and women. Trans women are women as trans men are men.

“Don’t compare yourselves to others, take time, and do things because it’s what you want and not because you’re pressured by society to do so.” Rica leaves a message to her fellow trans women and urges them to not put themselves at risk because of surgeries that are not safe.

On the topic of treatments to affirm their gender, these can be expensive. It can be dangerous to try unsafe remedies just so they could ‘look’ feminine or masculine in conforming to society’s given stereotypes. Rica warns about fake doctors who extort money from people who cannot afford to have proper surgeries, highlighting the fact that the health and financial stability of trans people are jeopardized because of these.

Every trans woman’s obstacles are not the same as others and what is important is how one identifies in terms of gender and sexuality. Whether or not you agree that trans people do not conform with their sex at birth, whether you agree or not with a person’s sexuality, one point shall be taken from this: respect one’s life as you do yours.

"You don't have to come from a place of hate, you don't have to insult them or invalidate them to prove your point," Rica emphasized disapproving myths that go around the trans community.

LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL

Despite all hardships that she encountered, losing hope was not in the vocabulary of Rica Salomon. One of her most successful moments is being able to launch her beauty brand. But her most triumphant circumstance in life would be the mark she left at Ateneo. Ateneo used to require students to conform to their sex assigned at birth and have a dress code based on their biological sex in yearbook photos or graduation ceremonies.

Rica was the first trans woman that petitioned for transgender students to have the freedom to express themselves—and she won. With the support of the Jesuits and her batchmates, her petition reached thousands and eventually made her initiative to be featured on the front page of their school’s publication as well as on news sites like the Philippine Star. Right now, she is more than happy that Ateneo is more educated and aware when it comes to their LGBT students.

Despite the measures done to promote the acceptance of the LGBTQIA+ community, Rica is afraid that their communities are just being tolerated. While she does not want to dismiss the progress that has been made in our country, SOGIE Bill which has been in the queue in the Senate for decades now remains a concern. The hope ignites and will continue to light those who are in the dark corners of the country but there is still a long way to go before they can truly be acknowledged by everyone.

“What matters most is you take care of yourself, do what is best for you, and I want you to know that whether you are inside the closet or not, it’s okay. But if you do choose to come out, know that you have a community that will stand by your side,” Rica assured those who are not ready to come out yet.

The trans community and their allies must work together to eliminate the stigma that plagues the members of the community. Like the vibrant rainbow flag, which represents all LGBTQIA+ people’s hopes, dreams, and cries for equality and acceptance; hopefully, soon enough, we can finally achieve the most victorious and colorful breakthrough for them.

“Whether or not you agree that trans people do not conform with their sex at birth, whether you agree or not with a person’s sexuality, one point shall be taken from this: respect one’s life as do yours.”

Lakambini ng Kagitingan, Lingkod ng Bayan

Kagitingan, katapangan, at paninindigan ang sandata laban sa iba’tibang uri ng pang-aapi. Kasamaang susupilin ng pagtindig at pagkilala sa karapatan. Karapatang ipinaglalaban dahil iyon ang nararapat na makamtan ng kaniyang nasasakupan. May puso ng katapangan at pagkakapantay-pantay na isinulong ng walang halong panghuhusga habang niyayakap ang lantad na katotohanan na hindi batayan ang kasarian sapaglilingkod sa bayan.

Mga Salita nina Alyza Pamillaran at Jimil Faith Caputero Mga Retrato ni Ma. Estelle Antonette Vaflor

PAGSIBOL NG BAGONG UMAGA

Tagapagtaguyod ng kaligtasan at katahimikan, kilala ang mga pulisya bilang magigiting na alagad ng bayan. Sa kanilang awtoridad nagsisimula ang pag-asa at seguridad na pinanghahawakan ng taumbayan. Ang kanilang opisina ang matatakbuhan sa oras na ang karapatang-pantao ay inalisputa at tinapakan.

Walang kasarian sa pagpili ng tama at pagiging tagapagtanggol ng kaniyang Inang bayan. Ang pagsisilbi sa iba ang nag-uudyok na ipagpatuloy ang laban na sinimulan.

Kilalanin si PEMS Donna B. Asmod, mula sa hanay ng mga magigiting na pulis at isa sa apat na magkakapatid na parehong tinahak ang naturang propesyon. Masigasig sa kaniyang panunungkulan bilang Public Information Officer ng Capiz Police Provincial Office. Nagtapos si PEMS Asmod ng kursong AB Sociology at BS Criminology. Kalaunay, nagtapos din siya ng Master’s Degree of Criminal Justice Education taong 2017. Isa siyang lisensyadong kriminologist at kasapi ng Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP). Kasama ang kaniyang kapatid na si PEMS Rowena Cantemayor, pareho silang nagbibigay-kaalaman at proteksyon para sa mga Capizeño.

“I decided to become a police officer because I wanted to challenge myself if I could survive the training of a male-dominated organization,” pahayag ni PEMS Asmod na walang takot na hinarap ang hamon ng pagiging pulis.

HAMON, KARANGALAN, AT LAYUNIN

Bilang tulay ng karunungan sa mga mamamayan sa pakikipaglaban sa kakulangan ng impormasyon at mga haka-hakang walang basehan, naglingkod

si PEMS Asmod bilang presidente ng Philippine Information Agency-led Capiz Association of Government Public Information Officers (CAGPIO) taong 2013-2014, bilang bise-presidente ng 2018, at mula 2019 hanggang sa ngayon muling itinalaga bilang Presidente.

Sa mahigit 23 na taon nang pagbibigay-serbisyo, naging malaking hamon para sa kanya na balansehin ang kaniyang tungkulin bilang asawa, ina sa apat niyang mga anak, at pagiging alagad ng batas. Subalit, hindi naging hadlang ito para sa kanya at nakamit ang ilan sa mga parangal katulad na lamang ang presidential medal sa pagiging Hall of Fame awardee in the search for Best Public Information Officer sa Western Visayas ng Philippine Information Agency 6 noong 2013. Tinanghal din siya bilang Most Outstanding Capizeña taong 2015 ng Borres Youth Leadership Inc.

“Both offer lots of responsibilities and for me to handle I have to always ask for God’s grace to give me wisdom, strength, and the right attitude to endure it all,” malumanay at may integridad na saad ni PEMS Asmod.

Hinulma man ng ideolohiya na ang mga kababaihan ay nararapat na sa loob ng bahay lamang: tagalinis, tagaluto, at nag-aalaga ng kaniyang asawa at mga anak. Limitado ang edukasyong kanilang nakukuha sapagkat minulat sila ng lipunan na tanging kalalakihan lang ang may karapatan na mamahala sa bayan. Subalit sa pagdaan ng panahon, nabigyan ng kalayaan at halaga ang karapatang pantao ng mga kababaihan na nagbukas ng maraming pinto upang mas lumawak ang maaaring lakbayin ng kanilang mga paa gamit ang kanilang layunin.

Sa pamamagitan ng mga programa na nilikha ni PEMS Asmod katulad ng ppocapiz.multiply.com taong

“Ang pagkakapantay-pantay ng kasarian ay nangangahulugan na ang mga kalalakihan at kababaihan ay may pantay na karapatan at responsibilidad sa lipunang kinabibilangan.”

2017 kung saan nabago ito upang maging Capiz PPO Pcads Facebook account, Capiz Police Provincial Office-CPPO Facebook page, at ang Talakayan sa Isyung Pulis (T.S.I.P.) Capiz PNP Version sa pakikipagugnayan sa mga lokal na medya katulad ng Bombo Radyo, DYVR RMN Roxas, Baskog Radyo, Radyo Bandera, Radyo Todo, at DYJJ Budyong, mas lalong nailapit ang mga proyekto ng Capiz PNP para sa mga Capizeños.

PUSO PARA SA PANTAY NA KARAPATAN

Bukas sa usapin ng gender equality o ang pagkakapantay-pantay ng lahat ng kasarian sa anumang oportunidad sa edukasyon, trabaho, at pook gawaan si PEMS Asmod. Binigyang-diin rin niya ang usaping diskriminasyon sa kanilang propesyon at mariin niyang isinaad na sa pulisya ay walang pamamaliit sa kasarian dahil sa paglipas ng panahon, ang PNP ay matagal nang gender responsive. Ang mga patakaran at polisiya ng kanilang departamento ay naaayon sa pagkakaroon ng gender development at sensitivity.

Dagdag pa rito, sinisikap ng PNP na mapalawak ang pang-unawa ng pulisya sa mga isyu ng sekswalidad at gender mainstreaming, upang mapanatili ang kapayapaan at kaligtasan ng komunidad na kanilang nasasakupan. Kung kaya ang pagiging maalam sa ganitong topiko ay mahalaga sa pagkakaroon ng community engagement at pang-unawa sa mga isyung may kinalaman sa sekswalidad. Ang pagkakapantay-pantay ng kasarian ay nangangahulugan na ang mga kalalakihan at

kababaihan ay may pantay na karapatan at responsibilidad sa lipunang kinabibilangan. Ito rin ay nauukol sa pakikibahagi ng tungkulin para sa ikauunlad ng lahat ng lipunan at komunidad na kinabibilangan.

"I don’t have a bias opinion on who can lead well, is it a man or a woman, both are capable to lead if he or she qualifies for the position and when both are given the chance to lead," paglalahad ni PEMS Asmod ukol sa paniniwala ng ilan na ang mga kababaihan ay walang kakayahang mamuno.

Nag-iwan rin ng mensahe si PEMS Asmod sa mga kabataan at kababaihang nais na tahakin ang katulad ng kanyang propesyon na kinakailangan bigyan ng pagkakataong ipakita ng mga kababaihan ang kanilang potensyal na makakatulong para sa katahimikan, kapayapaan, at pag-angat ng ating bansa.

“So women, empower yourself through education. Because it's all through education that you could step up and become empowered and you can be able to [inspire] other women also and you can make a lot of positive changes in your life and to the lives of other women,” makabuluhang mensahe ni PEMS Asmod.

Gamit ang mga pakpak at paa na minsan nang iginapos lulan ng paniniwalang kinagisnan, magpatuloy tayong lumipad at maglakbay sa landas na hinihiling ng ating puso. Ang malaya ay nakikipagdiskurso at ang malaya ay may pantay na karapatan at kakayahang mag-isip para sa sarili. Tandaan natin, ‘babae KA,’ hindi babae lang.

No Flaws, No Issues:

Live Selling for

Dreams

Screaming at the top of their lungs just to persuade interested virtual buyers, these are often the words you can hear from the videos of live sellers shared on social media platforms during the onset of the pandemic. Live selling serves as the only beacon of hope for some people to bring food to their table as the pandemic did not only compromise the safety of everyone, but also ravaged the economy, education, and labor force of the nation.

Words by Allea Rose Vasquez Photo by Michael Jay Demingoy

As a woman, it is quite challenging to find a job, even more, when you’re a student who must juggle school and work. Despite that, poverty is the number one reason why others do both. Looking for something that could sustain daily expenses is tough and risky at the same time. What more if it is done online? Even riskier. Yet, there is this woman who defied all odds to conquer her dreams.

Studying together with her sister costs a fortune that she cannot deny. From tuition fees, books, uniforms, supplies, and a lot more expenses, it made a huge hole in their pockets. Known for her strong personality and unmatched strategies in life, Jollynn Via Mae Billoso Danieles found a way to earn and help her family financially. To lessen her parents' burden, she decided to take a leap in the dark and sold homemade puto or rice cake when she was only in Junior High School. At that time, Facebook was not really a well-known platform for selling this and that, but she made use of it and just posted photos of that delectable rice cakes anyway and her classmates surprisingly patronized it.

When asked about her first online selling experience, she highlighted the fact that it went well because she got an amazing support system which was her family, friends, and classmates approaching her every time they needed sumptuous foods for various occasions. She was over the moon with delight for the love and support that she was getting. That was only the starting point of her online selling journey and it was followed by numerous products such as empanadas, pastillas, and a lot more foods.

"I was happy at the same time excited because I felt that my items are appreciated and loved by others," Jollynn said.

From finger-licking and mouth-watering foods, she jumped into the world of thrifting and retailing wherein she took a step further and with her charismatic aura, she did live selling. At first, it was only her but later on, she joined forces with her sister, Dimple, and they started JD's Basic Finds and JD's Wardrobe. Top to bottom or head to toes, you name

it and she has it because, for her, anything is worth selling with the right strategy and technique.

In life, there are highs and lows, and just like any other business owner, of course, she experienced her fair share of difficulties in selling too. There are times when her business is booming and tough times when sales are low. However, for her, the crux of the matter is having 'bogus buyers or miners' and 'joy reservers' or those who do not get their items and don't pay for them. In addition, heartbreaks are inevitable, especially for an attractive girl like her but those heartbreaks became her silver lining and pushed her to continue what she started to reach her goals. She withstood every obstacle and she did not let it waver her determination to achieve her dreams.

With her blood, sweat, and tears, she was able to pay for their bills and expenses while balancing her life as an accountancy student. Being an online seller and a student at the same time, her hands are full but for her, nothing is more rewarding than seeing the fruit of her labor and it makes her the happiest if she can provide for her family.

Highlighting what keeps her going, "Kung hihinto ako (Online Selling), sino magpapakain samin at magbabayad ng bills? (If I stop (Online Selling), who will put food on our table and pay our bills?)”

Being an online seller and a dreamer, she got her heart and mind fixed on her goals in the future and those are to have her own physical store and to expand her branches in different parts of the world. Armed with determination and hardwork, she is eager to achieve the life she aims for.

Some people say that women cannot and do not know how to earn money so they should just be stayat-home wives. Well, Jollynn proved them wrong, and she will continue to show them that she can and she will achieve her dreams through her perseverance. She did it, eliminating doubts and judgments on women as they are more than capable of doing greater things aside from holding a broom and a ladle. So if she can, you can do it too. Show them who runs the world.

“She did it, eliminating doubts and judgments on women as they are more than capable of doing greater things aside from holding a broom and a ladle. So if she can, you can do it too.”

Tapang ni Maria:

Labanang Pluma at Papel ang Sandata

Noong panahong nagbukas ang kalangitan at nagpaulan ng katapangan at katalinuhan, may isang mapalad na Pinay ang hindi pinalampas ang bawat patak nito. Bawat butil ng mga nasabing katangian ay buong puso niyang inialay sa pakikipaglaban para sa bayan gamit ang natatanging larangan, ang pamamahayag.

Mga Salita ni Reynan Joel Ecamina Retrato ni Jo Straube

Itinuturing na matapang ang isang tao kung ito ay nakikipaglaban gamit ang matalim na espada at mga armas. Imaheng noon pa man ay nakatatak sa isipan ng nakararami na marapat na sigurong buwagin at baguhin. Kung babalik-tanawin ang kasaysayan, may mga labanang hindi dugo't buhay ang nakasangla. Subalit sa kahit anong klase ng labanan, ang nag-aalab na katapangan ay hindi dapat mawala. Gayunpaman, ibang uri naman ng katapangan ang kinakailangan kung nakikipaglaban para sa kalayaan at karapatan ng mamamayan.

Pinatunayan ito ng isang babaeng lakas-loob na binangga ang mga nasa kapangyarihan, maisaliwalat lang ang katotohanang dapat mabatid ng mga mamamayan. Siya ay si Maria Angelita Ressa, isang Filipino-American multi-awarded journalist at ang kasalukuyang Chief Executive Officer (CEO) ng news website na Rappler. Sa loob ng 35 taon, nakilala si Ressa bilang mamamahayag, hindi lang sa Pilipinas at Asya, kundi maging sa buong mundo. Ginamit niya ang kanyang kaalaman at kakayahan upang patuloy na bunyagin ang mga impormasyon at gawaing maaaring makatulong o makasira sa bayan.

PAG-UUSIG SA PANININDIGAN

"In a battle for facts, in a battle for truth, journalism is activism.”

Sa pamamagitan ng kanyang kabihasaan sa pagsusulat ay nahayag ang mga maling gawain ng mga indibidwal, organisasyon, at maging ng pamahalaan. Isa sa mga binigyang-diin ni Ressa ang tungkol sa 'Anti-Illegal drug campaign' ng kasalukuyang administrasyon. Buong tapang niyang inilahad ang lahat ng pinaniniwalaan niyang pang-aabuso sa karapatang pantao at sa hindi makatarungang paraang pagpaslang sa mga ito.

Gayunpaman, kaakibat ng pakikipaglaban ang pag-uusig. Ilang beses nang inakusahan, kinasuhan, at ikinulong si Ressa dahil sa iba't ibang kasong isinampa laban sa kanya tulad ng umano'y paglabag sa 'ban on foreign media ownership', 'fraud', 'tax evasion', at iba pa. Maraming pagbibintang at alegasyon ang ibinato sa kanya ngunit sa kabila ng lahat na ito, patuloy siyang nanindigan sa katotohanan at naniwala sa katarungan.

PAGSIWALAT NG SULIRANING PANLIPUNAN

Bawat salitang isinulat ni Ressa ay maaaring maging banta sa kanyang buhay sapagkat ang mga salitang makatotohanan ay makapangyaharihan at wala itong kinikilala kung anong uri ng tao ka sa lipunan. Sa napakahabang panahon, kaakibat na sa kanyang karera ang pagtuligsa sa terorismo. Bago pa man nakamit ang mataas na posisyon sa mga kilala at malalaking kumpanya

sa larangan ng pamamahayag ay nakatuon na siya sa suliraning terorismo, partikular sa bahagi ng Southeast Asia. Nailimbag niya ang “Seeds of Terror: An Eyewitness Account of al-Qaeda’s Newest Center of Operations in Southeast Asia.” Sa kasalukuyan, inilalathala niya ang aklat tungkol sa kung paano manindigan laban sa diktador para sa isang pahayagan sa taong 2022.

KARANGALAN NG KATAPANGAN

Sa kaniyang dedikasyon upang labanan ang pagkalat ng mga maling impormasyon, naging tampok siya sa Time Magazine’s 2018 Person of the Year, napabilang sa 100 Most Influential People of 2019, at kinilala bilang isa sa mga Time's Most Influential Women of the Century. Naging bahagi rin siya ng BBC's 100 Most Inspiring and Influential Women of 2019 at Prospect Magazine's World's Top 50 Thinkers. Noong 2020, ginawaran siya ng Journalist of the Year Award, The John Aubuchon Press Freedom Award, Most Resilient Journalist Award, Tucholsky Prize, Truth to Power Award, at Four Freedoms Award. Ilan lamang ito sa mga natatanging parangal na nahakot niya sa ilang taong serbisyo bilang isang batikang mamamahayag.

Ang pinakahuling natanggap na nagpa-ingay sa publiko ay ang pagkamit niya ng Nobel Peace Prize Award, isang pagkilala para sa mga indibidwal na may natatanging kontribusyon sa lipunan. Ito ang naging dahilan upang itanghal siya bilang kauna-unahang Pilipino na nagkamit ng nasabing parangal. Katapangan sa pagsisiwalat ng katotohanan gamit ang pamamahayag ang naging batayan upang masabing siya ay karapatdapat na gawaran ng prestihiyosong parangal. Dahil sa tapang na kanyang ipinamalas, muling nakilala at namayagpag ang Pilipinas at patuloy na kinilala si Ressa sa buong mundo.

“Ang malayang pamamahayag ang pundasyon ng lahat ng karapatan ng mga Pilipino upang matuklas ang katotohanan,” ito ang madamdaming wika ni Maria Ressa ukol sa kahalagahan ng malayang pamamahayag sa pagpapanatili sa ating karapatan bilang Pilipino at patuloy tayong mabuhay sa katotohanan.

Sa lipunang puno ng diskriminasyon laban sa mga kababaihan, isang Maria Ressa ang tumindig upang ipaglaban ang katotohanan at makatarungan. Ngayon ay kinikilala sa buong mundo bilang isang natatanging mamamahayag na nakahandang protektahan ang bansa gamit ang papel at pluma bilang pangmalakasang sandata. Patuloy na maglalayag ang pamamahayag at hindi titigil sa paghahayag ng katiwalian na nakasisira sa bayan. Ang mga tulad ni Maria Ressa ang magpapatunay na ang katapangan ay wala sa kasarian.

“Sa lipunang puno ng diskriminasyon laban sa mga kababaihan, isang Maria Ressa ang tumindig upang ipaglaban ang katotohanan at katarungan.”

ENVISIONING:

A Female Student Leader’s Perspective on Climate Change

Words and Photos by Ma. Karen Capundan

Global problems need global action. In today’s world where patriarchy still prevails and the voice of the youth is continually being silenced, this is enough validation that we should be more engaged when it comes to climate change. Over the years, global political leaders have been trying to make ways to counteract the ramification of humankind's abuse of its environment. Different non-government and volunteer organizations with a common goal of saving the environment through volunteer work and other environmental-driven causes have also sprouted as time progresses, and these have created venues for student leaders and women to participate in discussions and actions to combat climate change.

Being a student leader at the University opened a lot of opportunities for me to allow myself to learn. The most recent, which I considered ‘the biggest thing’ that I joined is the ASEAN Young Climate Leaders Programme last January 17-20. Youth and young leaders across the ASEAN region were called to communicate and exchange ideas on environmental challenges in the region and to foster collaboration to help resolve the problems by participating in crash courses and project proposals at the end of the programme. Over a hundred thousand applied and luckily we were able to secure a spot and got to represent not only our University but also the country.

AYCLP did not only focus on the actions but also discussed other aspects that can be used in creating a project. To name a few, cross-boundary leadership that tackles competencies of communication across cultures, the ASEAN Strategic Plan on Environment (ASPEN) that prioritizes climate change, chemical and waste, coastal and marine environment, environmental education and sustainable consumption and production, environmentally sustainable cities, nature conservation, biodiversity, and water resources management. We were also given the time to interact and work out communication with our group for the project. I am currently working in the Coastal and Marine Environment group and we have proposed a project called 4CleanWaves which promotes marine biodiversity awareness through different social media channels such as Instagram, Telegram, and podcasts.

It is worthy to emphasize that climate change affects everyone from all walks of life, regardless of age, gender, or social status. As a woman, we must be involved in

Ma. Karen Capundan FCUSR President (A.Y. 2022-2023) Delegate, ASEAN Young Climate Leaders Programme

discussions on the environment. Women are also vital in decision-making and implementing policies as this promotes inclusivity and allows us to contribute practical solutions. Women are more affected by climate change, making the group vulnerable to gender disparities. This is because climate change results in poverty and with poverty, comes unequal opportunities for women such as in education and employment. If we keep ourselves silent and continue to snob the call for action of our Earth, climate change will not only affect Mother Nature but also widen the gap and boundaries between men and women.

Women empowerment also promotes turning their knowledge into action. This can be possible by creating a platform where they can be heard and recognized as part of policy-making. Student leaders are given a voice and can hear their constituents on matters that affect the majority. As student leaders, our power is not only limited to the political aspect but also extends to issues that may affect us outside the premises of the school. As we participate in the environment movement, we become more socially aware and empathetic of our future

generations. I believe that student leaders are smart enough to identify problems and come up with solutions, especially now that the youth is innovative and can easily adapt to changes.

Connectively, as a woman and student leader, the ASEAN Young Climate Leaders Programme allowed me to meet other youth that shares the same vision as mine; a future where everyone can still enjoy what the Creator gifted us. Throughout the programme, we were all given chances to speak. Our ideas were heard and we were also given ample time to express ourselves from different perspectives. The programme also made me realize that we have to look at things from different angles and this cannot be limited only to one approach. Specifically, it is

not enough that we implement and develop but also we have to educate our target vicinity.

One thing that I contributed to our project is emphasizing education. I firmly stand on the notion that ‘knowledge is power.’ When one is educated, they are empowered. When one is empowered, they are motivated to influence by creating a ripple effect of education. With this, I am a woman and a student leader that will continually be involved in the discussion towards climate change actions and give out education in regards to environmental causes and for people to do the same. From here, we can expect progress in alleviating the aftermath of our negligence to our home, the planet Earth.

“I am a woman and a student leader that will continually be involved in the discussion towards climate change actions and give out education in regards to environmental cause and for people to do the same.”—Ma. Karen Capundan

PARADIGM

Women have long been facing the existing social stereotypes about what they are capable of, who they can be, and how much they can contribute to the progress of society. They had to endure being told of their ‘rightful’ place and were held back by unfair limitations, violence, abuse, and discrimination. But women now are never again to be silent as silence condemns their rights, freedom, and future.

Words by Ysabelle Ann Besorio and Vanessa

Glenise Usison

“If only all the world acknowledged women’s potential as others, the world could be a better place—the same opportunities, and appreciation. We need a future where women no longer have to risk their liberty and life to cross and erase gender lines and stereotypes.”

To cry for freedom was outrageous and to be fearless was inappropriate. It is a crime to call the missed opportunities, inequalities, and abuses imposed on women as fate. Many women had to outgrow their dreams, some were attached to their homes, taught to be faithful to stereotypes, and spent their time under the shattering silence. Whatever lies beyond, they said, women should not navigate.

They had to step forward face-to-face with the mountain of challenges and conquered it victoriously through time. The generation of women today embraces the freedom to create a name, to beat the social norms and stereotypes believed and perceived by many.

Much more than being the bringers of life, they are also capable of doing the easiest to the most challenging jobs, to the oddest careers, one could ever imagine. They can be zealous business entrepreneurs, they can be marine biologists defying waves and redefining roles, they can be frontline heroes or an exemplar in a glittering spectacle with heads held high, preachers, or strong-willed dedicated journalists, they can be brave peacemakers, they can be Olympic gold medalists; they can grasp a hold on excellence in various fields and all walks of life and tread the world with stories to inspire.

But there are still immense barriers that stand in the way of the full recognition of their roles and the importance of their rights. Despite the ongoing progress, the fears that haunted women before seemed to find a new home as we welcome new developments. Women are still finding places of their own although gender roles have changed. But women will continue to wage determined struggles to make freedom and equality universal.

Existing social norms may perceive a small body frame and a fragile complexion, but what dwells inside is a drive unbreakable as steel, a heart of gold, passion like kindling flames, and hopes as high as the skies. Regardless of one’s identity, there should not be limits to what a person can do nor borders on what a woman desires to conquer. There should not be competition or comparison among genders because everyone plays a significant role in our vast thriving world.

If only all the world acknowledged women’s potential as others, the world could be a better place—the same opportunities, and appreciation. We need a future where women no longer have to risk their liberty and life to cross and erase gender lines and stereotypes. Leaving women behind as a societal default is denying them what was in themselves and what we can be as humans. We also have to stand up for equality for the world and our future.