In celebration of International Women’s Month, Leading Women Magazine, under the leadership of Publisher, CEO, and Editor-in-Chief Grace Bondad Nicolas, gathered an inspiring community of distinguished leaders, diplomats, entrepreneurs, and advocates for THE LIST 2026 at the Chairman’s Lounge of Okada Manila.
The elegant evening was more than an awards ceremony, it was a celebration of influence, responsibility, and the growing impact of women across industries and nations. The event also marked the launch of Beyond Protocol, an initiative by Irene Wicklein that strengthens connections among members of the diplomatic community, particularly the spouses of ambassadors who play meaningful roles in cultural diplomacy, social initiatives, and international cooperation.
Together, the celebration reflected the true essence of International Women’s Month, recognizing women whose presence and purpose shape societies beyond borders.
Leadership in Focus: Senator Grace Poe as Keynote Speaker
At the heart of the evening was keynote speaker, presenter, and honoree Grace Poe, whose message highlighted the critical role of governance in empowering women, protecting children, and strengthening families.
Senator Poe emphasized that leadership is not measured by title alone but by the policies and programs that improve lives. Her speech underscored the importance of legislation that addresses fundamental needs such as healthcare, nutrition, and education—areas that directly affect women and future generations.
Among the laws she highlighted was the Masustansyang Pagkain Para sa Batang Pilipino Act, institutionalizing a national feeding program that supports children’s health and academic performance. She also spoke about the First 1,000 Days Act, which provides vital healthcare and nutrition programs for mothers and infants, recognizing that early childhood development significantly influences long-term national growth.
According to Poe, empowering mothers means strengthening families, and strengthening families contributes to nation-building. Her keynote message reinforced that public service must always be guided by compassion, inclusivity, and foresight for the welfare of mankind.
She also reflected on the influence of her mother, Susan Roces, whose discipline and grace shaped her values of responsibility and integrity. Her personal narrative illustrated how leadership often begins at home, rooted in lessons of humility, perseverance, and service.
During the program, Senator Poe also acknowledged the contributions of Grace Bondad Nicolas and her mother Remy Bondad, emphasizing the importance of family support systems in shaping confident and purpose-driven leaders.
Launch of Beyond Protocol: Diplomacy with Heart
A significant highlight of the evening was the launch of Beyond Protocol, led by Irene Wicklein, which gathered spouses of ambassadors and members of the diplomatic community. The initiative recognizes that diplomacy extends beyond formal meetings, it also thrives through cultural understanding, humanitarian collaboration, and shared advocacies that helps humanity.
The presence of diplomatic spouses from various embassies demonstrated how international partnerships can contribute to meaningful causes, including education, social welfare, arts, and cultural exchange. Beyond Protocol aims to provide a platform for collaboration among women who play influential yet often understated roles in strengthening international relations.
Their presence added a global dimension to the celebration, reinforcing how women contribute not only to national progress but also to international dialogue and cooperation.
Grace Bondad Nicolas: Media as a Platform for Influence
In her welcome remarks, Grace Bondad Nicolas highlighted the responsibility of media in amplifying stories that inspire change. As Editor-in-Chief of Leading Women Magazine, she emphasized that storytelling plays a crucial role in shaping perspectives and encouraging future leaders.
According to Nicolas, media is more than a platform, it is a bridge that connects voices to audiences, ideas to action, and leadership to impact.
She underscored that THE LIST was created not only to recognize achievement but to provide visibility to women whose journeys can inspire the next generation. Each story featured by the magazine represents dedication, discipline, and purpose, values that contribute to a culture of integrity and collaboration.
Her speech emphasized that leadership today is defined not only by position but by contribution. Women continue to shape industries, challenge norms, and create opportunities that benefit communities to uplift themselves.
Grace Bondad Nicolas also highlighted that International Women’s Month serves as a reminder that every story of courage and perseverance contributes to a broader narrative of empowerment.
Honoring Women Across Industries
THE LIST 2026
