The resilience of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) fuels the dreams of those left behind.
Jennelaine Dingalan, a 28-year-old Filipina with a vision for change, understands this deeply. Growing up, she witnessed her mother, an OFW in Saudi Arabia, make immense sacrifices to provide for their family.
“There has to be a better way. Women shouldn’t have to choose between family and financial security,” she said, recalling how her parents were forced to make difficult decisions that led to separate ways.
Whatever life has thrown at her fueled a desire to shape a future where Filipinas wouldn’t have to choose between financial security and being with loved ones.
In 2023, Dingalan poured her knowledge and passion into Bilang Pilipina—an initiative that brings to focus the very foundation of economic empowerment – financial literacy.
Recognizing the importance of long-term financial security, Dingalan incorporates money management skills into the program. Workshops teach women how to save effectively and invest for their future, empowering them to build wealth and avoid financial pitfalls.
Her initial foray was in a barangay in Manila where about 40 women in the community joined the workshop on entrepreneurship and financial literacy.
The session equipped women with essential skills like starting small businesses, managing personal finances and creating realistic budgets.
The next stop will be in her hometown in Rizal, where the city mayor vowed to support initiatives that empower women, Dingalan said.
Recognizing the program’s value, local government units (LGUs) readily provide financial backing. This partnership allows Dingalan to reach more women and foster economic growth in communities throughout the Philippines.
Dingalan’s dedication to Bilang Pilipina stems from a deep understanding of the struggles Filipina women face. Bilang Pilipina strives to create a future where women can achieve financial security and contribute meaningfully to their families’ well-being.
Her expansive background as a communicator way back her college years at the Far Eastern University (FEU) convinced her to join Go Negosyo, a non-profit group focused on entrepreneurship development.
At Go Negosyo, Dingalan honed her business development skills, learning the intricacies of launching and scaling businesses. Witnessing the transformative power of entrepreneurship encouraged her to become a living instrument for building the tools Filipinas needed to thrive.
“I realized that for every Filipino we are able to help succeed, is one or two kids whose parents need not work overseas to provide for them,” she said.
After five years, she moved on to the United Nations Women (UN Women) before she scaled up to become a financial advisor and manager at SunLife.
Dingalan recognizes the importance of a healthy work-life balance. She prioritizes creating a supportive and enjoyable workplace, encouraging her team to excel professionally and lead fulfilling lives outside of their careers.
In 2023, Dingalan was selected as the sole Filipina among 130 young leaders from 92 countries for the prestigious US Department of State’s Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) program.
Dingalan was one of five fellows chosen to present at the Idea Fest, showcasing her ideas on a global platform. The transformative three-month program provided invaluable opportunities for collaboration, gaining insights, and building international connections to drive positive change.
Her story resonates deeply with millions of others, highlighted by the 2022 Philippine Statistics Authority Survey revealing that six of 10 OFWs are women.