Women in empowering conversation with AIA Philippines and She Talks Asia

AIA Philippines and She Talks Asia co-hosted a candid roundtable where women from diverse backgrounds challenged stereotypes, tackled limiting beliefs, and redefined financial well-being.

The discussion provided a safe space to rethink how women view money, break societal norms, and prioritize long-term goals. She Talks Asia founders Lynn Pinugu, Bianca Gonzales, and Iza Calzado emphasized how cultural conditioning and hiya (shame) make it tough for Filipino women to talk about finances. "Many of us were raised to think that asking for more is too much," Calzado shared.

AIA Philippines CEO Melita Teo stressed the importance of initiating these conversations: "I had to become comfortable discussing finances as part of my work." CMO Melissa Henson added, "The earlier you take charge of your finances, the more peace of mind you'll have."

FINANCIAL CONFIDENCE AIA Philippines’ CEO Melita Teo (center) and AIA Philippines CMO Melissa Henson (leftmost), and the founders of She Talks Asia join forces to inspire women to invest in themselves. PHOTO FROM AIA PHILIPPINES

Practical insights flowed throughout the event with talks from Janna Simpao, encouraging women to normalize money conversations within their circles; Zara Carbonell-Near suggesting to replace "budget" with "priorities" for a mindset shift; and Mariel Bitanga reminding everyone that financial literacy is a learnable skill.

Participants explored financial tools like AIA Ascend to secure their future. They also addressed the connection between financial security and self-care, recognizing that true well-being encompasses both.

This roundtable ignited a movement — empowering women to own their worth, rethink finances, and build a future rooted in well-being.