PH Embassy in Beirut, OWWA Support Women in Leadership Roles in Leadership Seminar

The Philippine Embassy in Lebanon and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) during the "Women in Leadership: Empowering the Future of Filipino Community Leaders in Lebanon." (Beirut PE photo)

BEIRUT 12 March 2025 — For International Women’s Month (IWM), the Philippine Embassy in Lebanon and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), successfully hosted "Women in Leadership: Empowering the Future of Filipino Community Leaders in Lebanon" on 09 March 2025, a leadership training that convened Filipino migrant workers, community leaders, and advocates under the IWM theme “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas.”

The event featured a series of in depth discussions, hands-on workshops, and an inspirational talk delivered by a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) expert, Yara Sleiman. The approach guided participants in exploring the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, aimed at empowering them to overcome mental barriers and build resilience needed for effective leadership. Philippine Embassy’s Chargé d’affaires Mark Joshua Ponce, in his opening remarks, highlighted the invaluable role Filipino women play, not just in their workplaces but also in shaping the future of the Filipino community in Lebanon. Welfare Officer Windelin Marquez, in her closing speech, reinforced OWWA’s commitment to supporting Filipino workers through training programs that go beyond the traditional expectations set for women.

The gathering is a celebration of the resilience, strength, and potential of Filipino women in Lebanon. Participants expressed feeling empowered and motivated to take on greater roles in their communities. One attendee shared, “This event reminded me that I am capable of so much more. We are more than just our jobs—we are leaders, advocates, and changemakers.” The Philippine Embassy and OWWA continue to stand with Filipina migrant workers, ensuring that they have access to opportunities that will help them grow in a holistic way, and beyond traditional gender roles which has been historically limiting for women. END

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) expert Yara Sleiman receives certificate of appreciation. (Beirut PE photo)

For more information, visit https://www.beirutpe.dfa.gov.ph,  https://www.facebook.com/PHinLebanon/.