11 June 2026 – Women leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and community advocates gathered at the Bow Valley Athletic Club for “Women Rising: Philippines–Canada Prosperity Corridors,” an event organized by Business and Professional Women Calgary in partnership with the Philippine Consulate General in Calgary.
The event highlighted the important role of women in driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic growth while exploring new opportunities for Philippines–Canada cooperation in trade, investment, and business development.
Serving as Guest of Honor, Consul General Emma R. Sarne delivered the keynote address, “Women Rising, Economies Rising: Investing in the Philippines and Building ASEAN’s Prosperity Corridors.”
In her remarks, Consul General Sarne emphasized that women’s economic empowerment is a catalyst for shared prosperity and that women-led enterprises are increasingly shaping the future of the global economy. She also highlighted the Philippines’ Chairship of ASEAN in 2026 and its commitment to advancing regional peace, economic integration, digital transformation, and opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises, including those led by women.
The event featured a video message from President Myrna Yao of BPW Philippines and participants celebrated graduates of the M-Power Mentorship Program, in recognition of BPW Alberta scholarship recipients whose achievements reflect the transformative impact of mentorship, education, and women’s leadership initiatives.
The event concluded with a BPW International Candle lighting Ceremony recognizing the Philippines as the newest federation in its global network of women leaders.
As the Philippines chairs ASEAN in 2026, the Philippine Consulate General in Calgary welcomes continued partnerships with Canadian stakeholders in building stronger economic connections, expanding opportunities for women entrepreneurs, and fostering shared prosperity across borders. END
