Please join us at Lean In Manila

I'm so happy to announce that my friend Ginger Palma Arboleda and I have brought in Lean In to the Philippines!

Lean In is a community organization founded by Sheryl Sandberg and Rachel Thomas. The term "lean in" is from Sandberg's book, Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead, where she writes about how women often have to drop out of the race (or lean back) when faced with choices between career and family. Her book argues that it is possible for us to lean into our work without necessarily sacrificing family life and vice versa. Of course, for millions of women all over the world, that's easier said than done. 

That's why Lean In was established - to create a world where it is possible for women to have it all. To do that, we'll need the support of the men in our lives, the support of other women in our community, and together we can push for changes in the workplace, society, and government so that we can create a more equal world for men and women alike.

I'm so thrilled that Lean In is now in the Philippines! Ginger and I would love to create communities of women who will support each other in our career ambitions and family life. To do this, we have plans to hold monthly Circle Sessions. This is what we call gatherings of women to just talk, vent, be inspired. This is what Lean In calls the power of peer support. We'll also hold seminars and inspiring talks, and eventually a networking event so that we women can help each other succeed.

We are aware that the COVID-19 pandemic will make this tricky. That's okay! Slow and steady wins the race. For now, while we're in quarantine, we'll meet virtually every last Friday of the month until we can finally see each other face to face. 

Such exciting news! I know this website is supposed to be only for my writing work, but I just really needed to share the good news with you all. As a woman who works, I want the world to be a better place for us all. I have sons, and I know the world is already a good place for men, but I believe it would even be better for both men and women when all of us have equal opportunities, equal pay, and even the choice to stay home, whether you're a man or a woman. Ginger and I are both working moms so it's our dream to help change the world. Please join us!

Lean In Network Manila Facebook page - for updates about the network and the activities of its members, plus links to articles relevant to working women

Lean In Network Manila Facebook group - for community building!

We'll put up a website soon! Watch for it!