PH Consulate General in Vancouver Hosts Panel Discussion Celebrating “Pinays in Technology”
An audience of about 35 women attended the event on International Women’s Day at the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver. (Vancouver PCG Photo)
VANCOUVER 19 March 2024— In commemoration of the National Women’s Month and International Women’s Day, the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver, together with Tech2Step and Google Women Techmakers (GWT), hosted a panel discussion entitled, “Breaking Barriers: Pinays in Technology” held on 08 March at the Philippine consulate’s premises.
Tech2Step and Google Women Techmakers are both non-profit entities that aims to create safe, fun and supportive networking experiences for professionals in technology. Ms. Khristine Cariño, co-founder of Tech2Step, served as the moderator during the event.
Philippine Consul General Arlene T. Magno opened the event with a heartfelt welcome, acknowledging the achievements of Filipinas in technology and highlighting the significance of providing support and opportunities for women to thrive in the field.
Featured in the panel discussion were three (3) Filipinas, namely, Katrina Bollozos, Senior Leadership at Salesforce; Ms. Allison Gacad, a climate journalist for Carbon Pulse; and Cristina Donato, an IT Services Manager at Best Buy, who shared their personal journeys, challenges, and successes in navigating the tech industry in Vancouver.
All three speakers emphasized the importance of a good resume, updated skills training and a network or support group. They also acknowledged that while tech is usually a male-dominated industry, it is not impossible to reach the managerial position with skills, resilience to change and reliable connections.
More than 35 women from the community attended the event. OMNI News Reporter Ms. Theresa Barrera and ABS-CBN International Correspondent Ms. Rowena Papasin covered the event. END
Philippine Consul General Arlene Magno delivers the Opening Remarks at the “Breaking Barriers: Pinays in Technology” event. (Vancouver PCG Photo)
Consul General Arlene Magno (center) poses with (from left) Ms. Katrina Bollozos, Ms. Khristine Carino, Ms. Allison Gacad and Ms. Cristina Donato. (Vancouver PCG Photo)
For more information, visit https://www.vancouverpcg.dfa.gov.ph