SM Supermalls celebrated women’s empowerment and brilliance during its 6th International Women’s Summit titled “The Future is Hers. Create. Lead. Thrive.” held at Samsung Hall, SM Aura.
In celebration of the 115th International Women’s Day, the annual summit featured compelling conversations and engaging activities highlighting women’s growing influence across creativity, technology, and entrepreneurship. The event underscored SM Supermalls’ commitment to recognizing the role of women in strengthening communities and shaping a more inclusive future.
The summit gathered influential women from different industries to share their experiences, insights, and perspectives on leadership, innovation, and personal growth. Through discussions and panel sessions, the event highlighted how women continue to lead meaningful change in various fields while inspiring others to pursue their own paths.
Opening Remarks Emphasize Courage and Growth
In her opening remarks, Jica Sy, SM Prime Holdings Vice President and Head of Design, Innovation, and Strategy, honored the women who came before and encouraged the younger generation to continue lending their voices to building a more inclusive society.
She also reflected on her personal struggles with perfectionism and the fear that the world would fall apart if she made a mistake. Sy shared how advice from an aunt helped her realize the importance of doing her best in every endeavor and making the best decision when the moment calls for it.
“We often think the future belongs to those who are ready, but it truly belongs to those who are willing to begin, even when we’re unsure or afraid of getting it wrong. Today is not just a celebration of the progress we’ve made, but a reminder of what we are building, what we stand for, and who we are becoming. The future will move whether we like it or not, but the real question is: will we women simply move with it, or will we define that movement?”
Her message emphasized courage, resilience, and the importance of taking action even in moments of uncertainty. It also highlighted how women have the ability to shape the future by stepping forward and embracing opportunities for growth and leadership.
Women Leaders Share Insights on Technology, Creativity, and Mental Well-being
Speakers from various backgrounds and disciplines graced the stage at SM Aura for the annual summit. These included MindNation co-founder Cat Triviño, host and podcaster Joyce Pring-Triviño, actress and mental health advocate Gabbi Garcia, content creator Belle Rodolfo, Connected Women co-founder Gina Romero, TikTok Philippines’ Eleanor Aguas, SoFA Design Institute co-founder Amina Aranaz, GRWM Cosmetics co-founder Mae Layug-Madriñan, and The Editor’s Market Philippines co-owner Erica Dee-Poe.
Through thoughtful panel discussions, each speaker shared insights on how women are shaping the future of creativity, technology, mental well-being, and business through purpose-driven initiatives that uplift communities.
Triviño, Pring-Triviño, and Garcia emphasized the importance of setting and defining boundaries online. They highlighted that protecting one’s mental health remains essential for long-term growth, especially in an increasingly digital world where online interactions can influence personal well-being.
Meanwhile, Rodolfo, Romero, and Aguas discussed how women are continuously leveraging emerging technologies to strengthen their personal brands and inspire communities. They encouraged women to view artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies not as threats, but as tools that amplify creativity and originality.
The discussions highlighted how technology can empower women to create meaningful content, connect with audiences, and build supportive communities while remaining authentic to their values and goals.
Women Entrepreneurs on Leadership and Building Inclusive Workspaces
In the final panel discussion, Aranaz, Madriñan, and Poe shared their experiences as women entrepreneurs in growing their respective businesses, overcoming mental setbacks, and building inclusive workspaces.
They reflected on how women’s emotional sensitivity was once perceived as a weakness. Today, however, there is growing recognition of the value of leading organizations with empathy.
The speakers emphasized that when leaders lead with heart, entrepreneurship evolves from being purely transactional to deeply relational. Empathy-driven leadership allows organizations to foster stronger connections within teams and create environments where people feel valued and supported.
“At SM Supermalls, our message is simple: All For You. It’s about service and creating spaces and opportunities where others can thrive. And that is especially important for women,” said SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Marketing and Leasing Hanna Carinna Sy.
“When women support each other, when we step forward even while we’re still figuring things out, that’s when real change happens. So let’s keep showing up, lifting each other, and moving forward with courage together. Because when women rise, we don’t rise alone.”
A Continued Commitment to Empowering Women
SM Supermalls’ International Women’s Summit reasserted the organization’s commitment to creating spaces and holding events where women’s voices are valued and celebrated.
Thoughtfully curated under the All For You initiative, the summit spotlighted women leaders, artists, and entrepreneurs and their continued commitment to breaking barriers and making a positive impact on society.
By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, the summit reinforced the importance of collaboration, empowerment, and leadership among women. It also highlighted how initiatives like the International Women’s Summit continue to create opportunities for meaningful dialogue and inspiration for future generations.
