Los Angeles, California – Recently, the Filipina Women’s Network (FWN) hosted an inspiring event titled “Homage to Filipina Voices: Igniting Transformative Change in Celebration of Women’s History Month” at the Los Angeles Athletic Club. The event featured Judge Rohanee Zapanta, the second Filipina appointed to the San Diego Superior Court, and Bianca Nicole Nepales, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Lionsgate, as keynote speakers.
The FWN event celebrated the resilience and dynamism of Filipina leaders like Zapanta and Nepales, who champion diverse perspectives in various fields, including politics, entertainment, business, governance, and education. They shared their journeys, highlighting challenges and groundbreaking insights that redefine diversity and inclusivity.
Nepales, a UC Berkeley and Loyola Marymount University graduate, emphasized the importance of co-creating new models of freedom and inclusivity. She highlighted the historical struggles faced by Filipinas and the ongoing need to ensure equity and inclusion for all.
Judge Zapanta reflected on her challenges and the importance of overcoming self-doubt to advocate for meaningful change. She encouraged attendees to find connections and share their truths authentically, embodying the spirit of “kapwa,” or shared inner self.
The event, organized by Edith Winterhalter and Benel Se-Liban, fostered conversations about the importance of storytelling in shaping narratives and promoting inclusion in society. Attendees left feeling empowered and ready to continue the journey of inclusion and belonging for all.
