By Paulo Loreto Lim

With Connected Women, an organization that provides venues to train and guide female entrepreneurs, through Facebook Philippines’ #SheMeansBusiness initiative, holding an event for female entrepreneurs yesterday in Bacolod City, organization CEO and co-founder Gina Romero said a new career is an opportunity for women to “reinvent” themselves.

With many businesses in the Philippines setting age limits on job applicants, Romero said, giving women an opportunity to start their own business gives them the chance to make a change.

She added, participants at the organization’s events vary in age.

One such case highlights Daisy Catague-Cababasay, who earlier attended a #SheMeansBusiness workshop in Zamboanga City.

After undergoing hip replacement surgery and being past the age of 50, by local business standards, she would not be considered a viable prospect on the job market. However, with the lessons picked up from the workshop, the aspiring entrepreneur has since set up Takuri Cafe, located in Iloilo City’s Jaro district.

Catague-Cababasay explained, the workshop helped navigate her on the mechanics of operating a Facebook business page for her restaurant.

In her experience, she has since developed skills in marketing, promotions, and photography.

In addition, Richilda Solina of Iriga City also set up her own essential oil business, where she sells a variety of herbal products.

Facebook Philippines Public Policy Manager Christopher Kuzhuppilly explained, the program teaches entrepreneurs how to “effectively use Facebook for communities.”

He added, they hope to foster a “healthy, positive online Filipino community.”

The #SheMeansBusiness workshops are supported by the Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, and social development organization Bayan Academy./PLL, WDJ