The Power of Sisterhood: Nurturing ‘She For She’ Culture Amidst Prejudices

Mar 15

Struggling against social and workplace gender-based prejudices in a predominantly pro-men’s world is tough enough, but it isn’t the only thing blocking women on the road to success.

Women have been conditioned to be competitive with one another because there’s a scarcity of jobs at the top, or there’s a strong desire for affirmation often resorting to relational aggression (a.k.a. mean girl syndrome) against other women as a survival tactic to mask negative feelings including inadequacy, insecurity and immaturity.

The truth is that women can collectively break this cynical cultural cycle if they band together. One way to overcome discriminatory hurdles is form a close bond with other women who have ‘been there, done that’.

There is power in the pack.

*Forging Sisterhood at WOW New York Soiree, 2023. (L-R) Leanne, USA; Holy, USA; Catherine, UK; Cecilia, USA, Lizette, USA; Isa, Philippines*

Women of the World (WOW), a global community of women, gives a refreshing new meaning to ‘inclusion and diversity’: raising each other and channeling the power of collaboration is how to change the equation while having fun along the way.

“We are a ‘She For She’ alliance that focuses on pro-actively developing our fellow women to do better in their professional and personal lives,” says Isa Buencamino, founder of WOW. “It’s very much a Sisterhood league at its core. We’re fostering a ‘No Judgment Zone’ kinship to rise above gender-related biases, among other things.”

Sisterhood is more than just a concept. It embodies the spirit of empathy and understanding. In times of adversity, women turn to their sisters for solace and strength. The understanding borne out of shared or resonating experiences creates a bond that heals wounds, nurtures resilience, and fosters personal growth. Consequently, this leads women to thrive in their chosen paths, professional and personal.

“Oftentimes, all it takes is one inspiring woman to awaken a dormant part within us that, eventually, paves the way to bring out our unique talent, thus leveling up and reading our goals,” underscores Isa.

Sisterhood, the power of the pack, will impact — or at least influence — the changes in societal issues that negatively affect women. Discriminatory issues related to gender, under-representation in the business sectors, centuries-old cultural practices etc as well as self-imposed barriers that women may, consciously or unconsciously, subject themselves to can be put right.

Don’t take my word for it. The impact of WOW cannot be denied. WOW’s growing number of members (currently more than 160 women) is proof that the ‘She For She’ alliance is doing something right. Here are what a few of them have to say:

“My WOW coaches enabled me to discover my real longing. The sky is the limit and they successfully created a safe space for me to discover that.” — Veronica Eala, CEO, LuxxVentures, Philippines

“I enjoyed connecting with the group each week and was really able to identify my blind spots that had been holding me back in being true to myself on my life’s journey as a woman, entrepreneur and citizen of the world.” — Sorelle Henricus, Communications Specialist, Singapore

“WOW helped me clarify my goals and discover my new callings; it has allowed me to explore further as I work on the next chapter of my life. I volunteered as a mentor, am exploring consultancy work and am paying more attention to my retirement plans. It’s amazing what opportunities have opened up.” — Rina Ramirez-Mababa, Director of Business, Travel and Sales, UK

“WOW showed me how powerful and important visualisations are for goal setting. I was introduced to my ‘inner critic’ and I learned an amazing way to approach her. I also discovered what I am passionate about, what gets me into flow, and what my true calling is. I am committed to People, to Growth.”— Milica Clayton, Client Care Manager, Dubai

“My most memorable WOW experience was meeting that rich and diverse group of women empowering each other. A significant moment during the training was the guided meditation led by Isa Buencamino that inspired my future career aspirations.” — Aida Santaolalla, Data Scientist, UK

Established in 2020 the UK-based entity with associates located in different countries worldwide, (about 26 countries to-date) has set its vision on transforming the world through balanced leadership comprising diverse individuals that come from different backgrounds, different cultures, different professional sectors regardless of age.

WOW extends its reach to young people, ages 18-28 through its Scholarship Foundation.

*Over 100 alumni and guests attended WOW Manila Soiree to reaffirm their commitment to the ‘She For She’ alliance*

“When women are empowered and connected, everyone is uplifted, thus the world becomes a better place for everyone,” says Isa, whose years of honed coaching and mentoring skills became powerful tools in setting up WOW.

To quote celebrity activist Jane Fonda: “Gender equity is like the tide. It lifts all boats and not just women’s.”

Debbie | ws

For more info please click the links below:

Debbie Reyes-Coloma

The Power of Sisterhood: Nurturing ‘She For She’ Culture Amidst Prejudices

Kai Ning Lim: Silver Lining for the Silver Gen

Milica Clayton: Living and Learning