In a celebration of Pinay strength, resilience, and leadership, Kalamansi Collective is bringing together an extraordinary group of Filipina-Canadian women for an International Women’s Day panel discussion on Saturday, March 8, 2025 starting at 11 a.m. at Casa Manila (879 York Mills Road) in Toronto.
The event, titled Kalamansi Chats: Filipinas Breaking the Glass Ceiling—The Highs and Lows of Success, will feature six powerhouse women who have made waves in their respective fields.
“Our goal is simple and it’s to amplify the voices of Filipina-Canadians who have paved the way for future generations,” said Kris Pangilinan, founder of Kalamansi Collective.
Kalamansi Collective is a clothing and lifestyle brand that “aims to pay homage to immigrant families and celebrate the fruits of their labour.”
“By sharing their journeys—the struggles, triumphs, and everything in between—we hope to inspire and empower others to chase their own ambitions fearlessly.”
Leading the discussion will be none other than Dr. Eileen de Villa, the former Medical Officer of Health for the City of Toronto.
A household name during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Eileen de Villa became a trusted voice in public health, guiding Torontonians through unprecedented times with her kalmado (calm) demeanor, expertise, and unwavering commitment to the community.
As a proud Filipina-Canadian, she not only exemplified leadership under pressure but also became a symbol of representation for Filipinoprofessionals in Canada.
Her signature scarf and glasses became recognizable trademarks of her composed yet authoritative presence.
Dr. de Villa’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Born to Filipino physician parents, she pursued medicine and public health, eventually earning multiple degrees, including a Master’s in Health Science and a Master’s in Business Administration.
As Toronto’s top public health official, she played a pivotal role in shaping policies to combat the pandemic, advocating for science-based decisions, equitable vaccine distribution, and community-focused public health strategies.
For Filipino-Canadians, Dr. de Villa’s participation in Kalamansi Chats is an opportunity to hear firsthand about her experiences navigating leadership as a woman of color in Canada’s healthcare system.
Her story is one of tiyaga (perseverance), excellence, and the power of representation.
Her presence at the event serves as a reminder that Filipinos can rise to positions of influence while staying true to their values of service and resilience.
Joining Dr. de Villa on the panel are equally astig (awesome) Filipina-Canadian leaders:
- Abby Albino – A champion for representation in sports and sneaker culture, Albino is the founder of Makeway, Canada’s first sneaker boutique dedicated to women, and co-founder of Rise Tribe, an organization that uplifts Filipino youth through mentorship.
- Marivel Taruc – A decorated journalist and Executive Producer at CBC News Toronto, Taruc has dedicated her career to telling diverse stories and amplifying underrepresented voices in mainstream media.
- Mary Ann Gamboa – A trailblazer in hospitality, Gamboa is the Commercial Director at Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, bringing years of experience in luxury brand management and guest relations.
- Erika Casupanan – The first Filipina-Canadian to win Survivor, Casupanan is now an award-winning podcaster, inspiring audiences with her bold storytelling and advocacy for authenticity and confidence.
Moderating the discussion is Sam East, a celebrated radio host from 99.9 Virgin Radio Toronto, who will guide the conversation with insightful questions and engaging dialogue.
The event will be held at Casa Manila, a beloved Filipino restaurant owned by Mila Nabor-Cuachon, who has kept Filipino culinary traditions alive in Toronto for over a decade.
Attendees will enjoy a traditional Filipino brunch (handa na ang kanin at ulam!) while gaining invaluable insights from some of the most successful Filipina-Canadians today.
With a portion of ticket sales benefiting the Canadian Women’s Foundation, Kalamansi Chats is more than just a discussion—it is a movement toward uplifting Filipina voices, fostering mentorship, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.
Tickets are expected to sell out fast, so don’t miss this chance to be part of a powerful conversation that celebrates the strength and success of Filipina-Canadians.
