Doha, Qatar – BMKQ marked International Women’s Day with a significant seminar and workshop themed “Empowering Filipinas: Discovering Your Purpose and Setting Goals.” The event took place on 08 March 2024 from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm at the Lamat Aleayila (Hashi Kamayan) Restaurant, bringing together Filipino expatriates in a day dedicated to empowerment and personal growth.
The initiative was spearheaded by Engr. Meliza M. Ortiguerra, the BMKQ Women Coordinator, whose leadership and vision were pivotal in orchestrating the event. The seminar featured Ms. Karmela Palma, a renowned Filipina empowerment advocate in Qatar, as the resource speaker. Palma’s engaging and motivational speech focused on empowering women to discover their purpose and set achievable goals, resonating deeply with the attendees.
Moreover, Ms. Annaliza Diet, the Dean and CEO of Academia International Institute and Center, shared her insights with the participants. She emphasized the importance of having visions and goals in life and highlighted that women today are equally competitive. Additionally, Ms. Diet announced that two scholarship slots would be available for fortunate participants who qualify for the program.
A total of 28 female Filipino expatriates attended the seminar. The event was held in collaboration with other organizations, including BaK and OFW Ilokano, which helped to broaden the reach and impact of the initiative. The collaborative effort highlighted the solidarity and shared commitment to women’s empowerment within the Filipino community in Qatar.
BMKQ Women, a special programme established in 2019, has been at the forefront of advocating for women’s empowerment within the BMKQ’s overall vision. The programme is driven by the dedication of its female active members, who strive to elevate the importance of women’s roles and contributions in various sectors.
The celebration received substantial support from the Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI) and the Academia International Institute and Center. Their backing underscored the importance of international and institutional support in driving local initiatives aimed at empowering women.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Eliseo Bermido, president of BMKQ, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the resource speaker for her generous dedication and efforts in imparting valuable insights to the participants. He emphasized the significance of the knowledge gained in boosting their self-esteem and fostering personal growth. Mr. Bermido also extended his appreciation to all the sponsors and working committees for their contributions in making the event a success.