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“Elizabeth Holmes really fascinates me. More than being the youngest self-made female billionaire in the world, her diagnostic firm Theranos has made blood testing easy, efficient, and accessible to everyone. The potential to save lives with an accurate diagnosis is something that is important to me as a physician. I have full respect for someone like her who has defied all norms by dropping out of Stanford University and tackling the male-dominated healthcare industry before coming out with full respect from everyone around the world.” —Dra. Aivee Aguilar-Teo, dermatologist, president and medical director, The Aivee Clinic
"Socorro Ramos. She grew up poor but ended up being the founder of one of the biggest retailers in the country. National Bookstore grew from one store into a company that now includes PowerBooks and Anvil Publishing. What's great about her is that she designed the business to offer readers the chance to purchase books at reasonable prices. 'I wanted to help people learn,' she said, 'since I myself was poor but eager to learn.' Respect."—Bea Ledesma, group publisher, Hinge Inquirer Publications
“I admired Princess Diana growing up. She used her position of power and fame to genuinely highlight issues on poverty and disease.” —Jessica Wilson, product manager for Lancôme, L’Oréal
“Net-a-Porter founder Natalie Massenet. She's relatable , born into a middle class background, and started her Net-a-Porter with her husband. They worked from their apartment and stocked their trademark black boxes in the bath. I still stock my boxes in our bathroom so I can so relate. It's inspiring what a woman can do if she puts her mind into it. Anything is possible really when you work hard enough.” —Vania Romoff, fashion designer
"Nedy Tantoco and Tessie Sy-Coson are two retail industry icons I admire. They have devoted their lives working for the business which their hardworking parents established. But more than just continuing the empire that they took over, they have put in their own innovative style, strengthening, expanding and letting the business meet the demands of the times. Their work ethic is admirable, their tenacity something I aspire to develop myself," -Rissa Mananquil-Trillo, co-owner, Happy Skin
“Coco Chanel, who was way ahead of her time. Through fashion, she was able to interpret or share modernity, bravery, equality and freedom.” — Jo Ann Bitagcol, model and photographer
“I look up to my schoolmate, Abba Napa, who is a restaurateur and the founding partner for creative development for The Moment Group of restaurants. Her energy is boundless and she most hardworking person I know.” —Maureen Disini, fashion designer
“Natalie Massenet. She basically changed the way designer fashion is sold with Net-a-Porter.” —Melissa Gatchalian, creative content and graphic designer, Sunnies Studio
“Professor Judy Taguiwalo, U.P. Professor and ardent feminist, one of the founders of MAKIBAKA and AMIHAN. She gave birth in prison during Martial Law. She is always present in times of need, first in the line of battle, she will spew fire and brimstone against those who are doing wrong to farmers, laborers, women, men, children. Her longevity in mass movement is something to look up to. “Internationally, I will always admire Alice Neel, she is a painter who embraced left-wing beliefs and her subjects are very political. She witnessed the Great Depression, suffrage, and feminist movements. Aside from this what sets her apart is how human she truly is. She made many mistakes at a time when women would be crucified for defying their defined roles and despite social pressure, she remained true to her art, placing her career above everything else, putting herself as priority. Alice Neel is celebrated as an independent woman, an artist above anything else.” —Nikki Luna, artist (Photo by Cyrus Panganiban)
“Sheryl Sandberg, the COO of Facebook. Her book Lean In should be read by every professional woman. I love her strong feminist point of view without all the anger. We women should just go out and get on with it and do our stuff.” —Sara Black, photographer
“A woman that I admire is Diane von Furstenberg because of the way she's been able to build a fashion business that works in both a commercial and contemporary setting. I heard her speak at the Vogue Fashion Festival back in 2013, and I was extremely inspired by her cheekiness and poise as a woman. She's the kind of woman I'd like to be.” —Rosenthal Tee, fashion designer
"I admire Tessie Sy Coson. I think she's very in tune with the times and more so visionary."—Ria Prieto, Preen editor-at-large and editor-in-chief, Inquirer Red Magazine
“I'd go for Shonda Rhimes and Tina Fey—they're badass! They're work their asses off to be where they are and they're not afraid to say what they want! #Girlboss Also, Amal Clooney. If she were in the limelight back when I was in high school, I would've pursued law just because I want to be like her. I mean come on, beauty and brains, plus she got George on the side.” —Jackie Go, blogger
“Michelle Obama is the woman I admire the most. She was able to balance being her own person while being married to the president of the USA! She doesn’t look like a shadow behind him—more like a force. She is down-to-earth, beautiful, funny, smart. She has made her role as a First Lady so meaningful. She is a very accomplished woman on her own but it is never about her. She has given priority to her husband, family, and country without losing herself. She is an amazing role model, bravo!” —Sevrine Mialhe, advertising and communications manager and beauty and wellness executive, Rustan’s Department Store
"[I look up to] Rei Kawakubo because of her continuous ingenuity. She succeeded in her own &school&which produces honest talent, which is rare nowadays."—Cara Sumabat, creative director, Halo + Halo and Wabisabi
“I guess I would say former surf champion Layne Beachley. She won seven world titles and now dedicates her life to charitable work through surfing. Until now she still rips! For the local setting, it’s Ani de Leon. She's an Iron Woman. Even after giving birth, she regularly trains and still wins races.” —Lorraine Lapus, professional surfer and brand ambassador, Ripcurl Asia
"My icon is a designer, Coco Chanel. She [was] ahead of her time. She moved women into the new century of lifestyle, thinking, and dressing. She liberated women from the corseted shape of clothing. She extended her influence beyond couture, also introduced less expensive jewelry: pearls, quilted bag, the little black dress, the twin set and turned jersey underwear into knitwear for outerwear"—Lulu Tan-Gan, designer
"I admire Nasty Gal's Sophia Amoruso because she is the epitome of a modern day rags to riches entrepreneur. She had a lot of personal struggles when she was younger but she overcame all those and eventually found her passion which now translated into a multi million dollar retail business. I also admire my personal friend, Lucy Torres-Gomez for all the hard work that she is dedicating as the congresswoman of the 4th district of Leyte. Aside from all the improvements that she is working on and implementing in that area, Lucy is also utilizing her personal skills in promoting products from her province. She has personally designed packagings for vinegar, biscuits, tablea and some other products manufactured in Ormoc and she gave them to friends and colleagues for Christmas. And despite her hectic schedule, she does not fail to spend quality time with her family and friends." —Pia Campos, general manager, W Talent Management
"These are the women that I keep on coming back to. Every time I'm stuck in a rut or need a little nudge, I find myself googling their work. It's a reminder of three things for me: my roots, what got me by and a reminder to do great honest work. Peggy Sirota, one of the best photographers out there. You remember that Zac Efron photo where he's hanging sideways on a light pole? Yeah, she took that. Back when the goal was to become a fashion and commercial photographer, Peggy Sirota was my idol. Miranda July, thank you for writing 'No One Belongs Here More Than You.' Heart aches were easier with that around. Mandy Lee of Ladyandpups.com, Mandy Lee is probably one of the most honest bloggers that I follow. Her recipes are well thought of, the kind that takes time. That&s a unicorn in our era of snaps and likes. She&s not about that curated flatlay-light glare-easy cooking kind of life. She's one of those few people who put in a bit more time and effort. And you can see it in every recipe. That's the goal, to put in the extra hours to make something beautiful while accepting your mistakes and having a laugh about it along the way; Nigella Lawson, no one does butter, chocolate, and bokeh like tita Nigella does. Everyone should look up to her."—Gabby Cantero, food photographer
“I look up to Teresita Sy Coson. For her visionary leadership and foresight. Working closely with her has allowed me to see her unwavering strength to always push boundaries.” —Carissa Chan, business unit head, Premium Fashion Retail Designs, Inc., (Joseph and Calvin Klein Platinum)
"I look up to Marian Goodman, New York gallerist, very respected, and is all about her artists and her program."—Isa Lorenzo, Silverlens Gallery
“That's easy. My mother. Moms are the unsung heroes for most daughters. They are incredibly hard-working and self- sacrificing. They are your most honest critic and would want only what is best from you.” —Andrea Amado, president, Amado Group Corp. (Etude House, Tony Moly)
"Songstress Florence Welch of the band Florence and the Machine is a woman I regard very highly, not just because of her otherwordly music and amazing style, but how she manages to stay true to herself and her craft despite the very commercial nature of her work. After all, musicians and artists belong to the professional world, and Welch has successfully cultivated her "brand"and image in that pounding, quirky, and slightly off-kilter way of hers."—Shaira Luna, photographer
"Sheryl Sandberg, Facebook COO and 'Lean In' author. She is my example of a woman of power and value—aside from her impressive career portfolio, she is able to balance work and family life. Her book &Lean In&gave me so much inspiration to move forward and be undeterred to lead gracefully in the male-dominated industry that I am in. I love it that she isn't afraid to show her vulnerabilities as a woman in tech, a leader and even as a wife dealing with grief when her husband suddenly passed away. [I also admire] Lisa Messenger, founder and editor-in-chief of the Renegade Collective. She's my example of daring greatly and chasing near impossible dreams. She dove into publication which they said is a dying industry without any experience nor financial investor. She followed her vision of creating the greatest, most stylish, conscious, inspiring entrepreneurial magazine/media movement that the world has ever seen. These women are prime examples and movers. I look up to them as role models in what I do. I believe that if they did it, so can I - In my own time. To set goals, focus and eventually achieve them. I'm grateful for their influence."—Ann Jacobe, CEO, Youphoric Labs; founder, Shoephoric
"I'm in awe on how Apples Aberin, Unilever's head of PR, balances everything but still [manages] to look chic every single day. I think she's an inspiration to young women to always aim high, work hard, enjoy life, and more importantly not taking yourself for granted. Even though you&re busy you must be able to take care of yourself as much as possible.—Reese Rubin-Benedicto, stylist
“Solita Monsod. As a professor in UP Diliman, she has always reminded us of our schools' motto of honor and excellence: Honor first before excellence, and integrity first before excellence. This way, so we become a part of the solution for our country and not part of the problem. She is passionate about Love of country and stresses honor as crucial. A professor's impact to a student is massive.” —Rhoda Campos-Aldanese, businesswoman, Villa Del Conte chocolates
“In another life, I imagine working in the field of International Relations so Samantha Power, US Ambassador to the United Nations is my pick. I admire her commitment to human rights causes ranging from women's issues, LGBT rights, religious freedom, human trafficking and genocide. I am inspired by her intelligence, passion, and progressive thinking.” —Anne Gonzalez, managing director, Terry S.A. Inc. (All Flip-Flops, Thread 365, Common Thread)
“I've always admired Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She continues to represent the voices of the marginalized— women, people of color, and the LGBT community. In her 80’s, she perseveres in the fight for equality. A new generation is discovering her remarkable life (Notorious RBG!) and I shall remain in awe.” —Rita Nazareno, creative director, Zacarias 1925
“Natalie Massenet, founder of Net-a-Porter. She practically invented luxury online shopping. She started her company 15 years ago in her Chelsea flat just after giving birth to her daughter. She's an industry leader, a pioneer, and she's continuously evolving. Her story is so inspiring for female entrepreneurs. In her own words ‘just because something doesn't exist, doesn't mean it won't work,’ urging women to always think ahead.” —Kai Lim, co-founder, Cura V
“I have always admired Diana Vreeland. I love reading books written about her. I either learn from her creative genius or laugh at her wit. There's nobody else in history like her; she saw things differently, as if observing things from a demigod planet. She was a headstrong risk-taker, albeit a playful one. And the things she dreamed up! Although she worked in an industry which many think of as external and shallow, i read a quote by her from a Vogue office memorandum dated Feb. 5, 1970 regarding an article on cosmetic products that was being written at the time: ‘Beauty is within one. I feel the American girl and woman has come to depend totally and entirely on cosmetics. Not on her own spiritual values.’” —Joyce Makitalo, jewelry designer
“I would choose Anne frank. For someone so young in such dire circumstances, you can hear the hope and optimism in her diary. Her museum in Amsterdam really moved me.” —Janina Dizon-Hoschka, jewelry designer
“Leni Robredo! Sorry, I know it's political but I have admired her way before she ran for VP. She remained calm, strong, and compassionate through all the trials in her life, and she even found a way to give more of herself for others. Truly being a public servant is a great offering to the country.” —Reese Fernandez-Ruiz, co-founder and president, Rags2Riches
“I really admire Joey Mead King, not just because of her great career but also because she's a huge animal advocate. She adopts and rescues homeless kitties, which I really appreciate! I love that she's using her influence to educate people about animal welfare. #goals” —Soleil Ignacio, artist
“Frida Kahlo. Probably not a surprise since I did an homage to her before and she’s quite the pop icon inspirational artist/woman/rebel/feminist of choice. But honestly, on a personal level, I really respect self-made women. And Frida is, as her Self, the artwork. I love that she lived her life radically and celebrated every aspect of it. She was a brilliant artist who was incredibly committed to her work despite the odds and also had time for flowers in her hair, filled her garden with plants an animals. She was the same person who also marched for the revolution, drank tequila, sang rancheras, was both comfy in her own masculine and feminine, and manifested it by owning her appearance, her image to the world. She broke rules yet she kept close what she held dear. She is strong and is not afraid of her own tenderness. I salute this woman, ‘Her Infinite Variety’ type of woman—mother, daughter, sister, lover, vulnerable strong woman. A kind woman who has the freedom to live out her passions and also embrace the warm tethers of the heart.” —Wawi Navarroza, artist and founder, Thousandfold
“Locally, it’s Margarita Fores. I admire everything she has done whether it be in the culinary, business, or anything creative. Internationally, it’s Rei Kawakubo. I admire how she never compromised her craft and therefore created her own world in fashion.” —Tinay Villamiel, creative director, Bleach and Artwork
“Visual artist Pam Yan-Santos. Her profession allows her to make her home her studio so she can take care of her first son who has autism and her two younger sons in a very hands-on manner. At the same time, she is the perfect wife to her artist husband Jose Santos III. She is also the dutiful daughter to her mother who has the same strength of character and courage. With her quiet but steady strength, Pam is the rock of her family. On top of all this, she manages to touch every art viewer's mind and heart with her artworks which like her can be described as quietly strong.” — Tina Fernandez, owner and creative director, Art Informal gallery
"[I admire] Nicole Aragi and Laura Verallo de Bertotto. Nicole Aragi is one of the best literary agents in the business. She represents almost all the authors I want to read, and this roster isn't limited to privileged white males. Laura is CEO of VMV and has been instrumental in successfully expanding the company overseas - no small feat considering the very specific niche the brand occupies. Plus she is fiercely intelligent and extremely well-read. One of the few people in Manila who discusses issues, not people." —Bambina Olivares, correspondent, Women's Wear Daily
We here at Preen will always be the first to tell you that women are pretty special. And until we finally reach a time when equality is given to all sexes, we won’t stop talking about the many achievements women have made in their respective fields of expertise.
So for International Women’s Day, we asked 35 women we look up to, from business women to designers, from photographers to doctors, and from models to gallery owners, for their own respective idols and why these figures help them out in kicking-ass one debunked stereotype at a time.
Click on the slideshow above and see the gallery of great women and the icons who inspire them!
With additional reporting by Jacqueline Arias, Jacque De Borja, and Cai Subijano
Art by Dorothy Guya
Alice Neel, All Flip-Flops, Amado Groups, AMIHAN, Andrea Amado, Ann Jacobe, Anne Gonzalez, Apples Aberin, Ariana Huffington, Art Informal, artwork, Bambina Olivares, Bea Ledesma, bleach, Calvin Klein Platinum, Cara Sumabat, Carissa Chan, Common Thread, Cura V, Cyrus Panganiban, Diana Vreeland, Dr. Aivee Aguilar-Teo, Elizabeth Holmes, Etude House, Facebook, Florence and the Machine, Florence Welch, Frida Kahlo, Gaby Cantero, Halo + Halo, Hinge Inquirer Publications, Inc., Inquier RED, International Women’s Day, Isa Lorenzo, Jackie Go, Janina Dizon, Jessica Wilson, Jo Ann Bitagcol, Joey Mead King, Joseph, Joyce Makitalo, Judy Taguiwalo, Kai Lim, L’Oreal, Lancome, Laura Verallo de Bertotto, Leni Robredo, Lorraine Lapus, MAKIBAKA, Mandy Lee, March 8, Margarita Fores, Marian Goodman, Maureen Disini, Melissa Gatchalian, Michelle Obama, Natalie Massinet, Net a Porter, Nicole Aragi, Nigella Lawson, Nikki Luna, Pam Yan-Santos, Peggy Sirota, Pia Campos, Preen, Premium Fashion Retail Designs, Rags2Riches, Reese Fernandez-Ruiz, Reese Rubin-Benedicto, Rei Kawakubo, Rhoda Campos-Aldanese, Ria Prieto, Ripcurl Asia, Rita Nazareno, Rosenthal Tee, Ruby Gan, Rustan's, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Samantha Power, Sevrine Mialhe, Shaira Luna, Sheryl Sanburg, Shoephoric, Shonda Rhimes, Socorro Ramos, Soleil Ignacio, Solita Monsod, Sophia Amoruso, Sunnies Studios, Teresita Sy-Coson, Terry S.A., Thread 365, time, Tina Fernandez, Tina Fey, Tinay Villamael, Tony Moly, Vania Romoff, Villa Conte Chocolates, Vogue, Wabisabi, Wawi Navarroza, Women's Wear Daily, Zac Efron, Zacarias 1925
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