JDN Realty Group honored the change makers and trailblazer women of Nepo during its Women’s Month Celebration, “HERstory”, on March 26 held at Newpoint Mall, Nepo Center.
The event showcased the resilience, leadership, and contributions of women who have shaped Nepo’s progress and continue to inspire upcoming and future generations.
JDN President and CEO Aaron B. Montenegro underscored the company’s commitment to gender inclusivity during his opening remarks. He noted that 60% of JDN’s workforce is female, with many in leadership roles. “This is not just a statistic, it reflects the power of inclusion, opportunity, and perseverance,” he stated, recognizing the vital role of women in driving collective success.
At the heart of the celebration was the LeadHERship & EmpowHERment Talk, featuring two distinguished women who have made a lasting mark in their fields:
Maria Rita Josefina “Marijo” V. Chua, President of Angeles Electric Corporation, encouraged women to embrace leadership opportunities with confidence. “If you’re thinking of a bigger role, that means you’re ready. You just need a little push,” she shared. She also emphasized the importance of balance in both professional and personal life, saying, “When I’m at work, I give my 100%, and when I’m at home, I give my 100%. Babae tayo. Kaya natin lahat ‘yan.”
Chua also reflected on the legacy of her grandmother, Teresa Gomez-Nepomuceno, a pioneering businesswoman who co-founded Angeles Electric Corporation (AEC). “I have always admired strong women, and I won’t go far. My grandmother, Teresa Gomez-Nepomuceno, was renowned for her skilled homemaking abilities, intuitive healing talents, and astute business acumen, all accompanied by a feisty temperament,” she shared. “She was the person who was brave enough to invest in a 70HP engine, an electric generator, a switchboard, and a truckload of wires that were the beginnings of AEC. She saw the possibilities and fervently wished, along with her husband, to light up the Holy Rosary Parish Church.”
Atty. Erika Ana Andrea C. Jimenez-Nepomuceno, JDN’s corporate secretary, a partner at NJN Law Office, and a top-three bar exam passer, spoke about faith, mentorship, and partnership as pillars of success. “Faith will help you propel forward in times of trials,” she said. She also stressed the importance of finding the right people, both in work and in life. “Find a good mentor to show you the ropes. My success is largely because I had really good mentors. Adversity is the greatest character builder,” she added.
The two leaders later engaged in the “Her Story” forum, offering guidance on overcoming adversity and shaping the future for women in leadership. Chua reminded attendees to embrace support systems: “There are people who can help us. Don’t take that opportunity for granted. And also, we need me-time, always remember that.” Jimenez-Nepomuceno echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that choosing the right life partner and surrounding oneself with the right people can be game-changers for success.
While our guest speakers shared their invaluable insights, the event was further elevated by the thoughtful facilitation of Ms. Trixie N. Valdes as both a skilled moderator and a distinguished leader in her own right. She is now serving as the President of Angeles Industrial Park, Inc. (AIPI). Ms. Trixie played a crucial role in driving engaging discussions and fostering a deeper connection with our audience.
To celebrate self-care and empowerment, attendees joined a Beauty Workshop led by Robinsons Department Store experts and explored Beauty & Wellness kiosks featuring products from women entrepreneurs in Nepo.
The event drew professionals from JDN Realty, Angeles Electric Corporation, Angeles Industrial Park, Inc., and Teresa Waterworks, alongside mall-goers who gathered to honor the strength and success of Nepo’s women. Indeed, a successful collaborative event spearheaded by JDN’s HR department led by another woman in leadership, Ms. Riza Caladiao.
By spotlighting the achievements and wisdom of these powerful women, “HERstory” reaffirmed that women’s leadership is not just an inspiration, it is the foundation of Nepo’s thriving community.
