MABUHAY!
Praise God for the incredible opportunity to be able to attend the Women Leadership Development Seminar in the Philippines, held from 5th to 10th February 2026. It was a powerful platform where young Asian women were empowered, inspired, and strengthened through learning, fellowshipandsharedexperiences.
Around 30 young women from 9 Asian countries [the Philippines, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore & Vietnam] gathered together, creating a rich environment of diversity and connection. Gianna & I were proud to represent Malaysia. It was a joy to meet people from different cultures, wear our traditional attire, andsharesweetswithoneanother,experiencingunity indiversity.
The main sessions were led by Rev Hikari Kokai Chang andRev Dr Yani Yoo, who emphasised the importance of being rooted in Christ in leadership. We were reminded that leadership is not about position or authority, but about serving others with humility, faith, and love. Through these sessions and hands-on group activities, we were encouraged to depend on God, build strong character, and lead with compassion.
As part of our spiritual formation and awareness, we also observed ‘Thursdays in Black’, standing in solidarity against gender-based violence. This initiative reminded us of our role as Christian women leaders to advocate for justice, healing, andasafer society.
The programme also included mission and ministry site visits that deepened our understanding of real-life struggles. Visiting Manila North Cemetery was a humbling experience, as we witnessed families living among tombs due to poverty and lack of housing. Seeing such conditions was truly eye-opening and reminded us of the realities faced by vulnerable communities. For those who feel led to support this community, you may do so through the Kapatiran-Kaunlaran Foundation, Inc. (KKFI), formerly known as the Methodist Social Center, which was established in response to the call to serve and uplift the poor in their journey towards genuine human development. More information can be found at https://kfimissions.org/.
We also met mothers living with HIV, and their stories highlighted both the challenges they face and the importance of showing Christ’s love through compassion and support.
In addition, our visits to historical sites such as Intramuros, Fort Santiago, Memorae 1945, Manila Cathedral, and San Agustin Church allowed us to reflect on the country’s history and the resilience of its people. These experiences cultivated empathy and gave us a deeper awareness of the lived realities of the communities we encountered.
Overall, this seminar was a valuable and impactful journey. It strengthened our understanding of Christian leadership and reminded us that true leadership is grounded in Christ-like service. We are grateful for the opportunity to grow through learning, fellowship, and shared experiences with fellow sisters across Asia.
We are inspired to stand in the gap as a voice of encouragement for young women, just as we have experienced during this seminar. We desire to uplift and remind them of their identity and purpose in Christ. Moving forward, we hope to contribute by mentoring young women, sharing insights gained from this seminar, and creating spaces where they feel confident to grow and lead.
We propose to establish a weekly sports fellowship with young women in our community, creating a safe and consistent space where all can build confidence, form meaningful relationships and leran to uplift one another. Inspired by the call for women to support women at the conference, this initiative translates our experience into practical action, ensuring that both those with hidden struggles and those seeking growth are strengthened through a positive and emporing environment.
Our sincerethanks toMrsEvelynSim(GCMWpresident) andMrs Vinsala(TACMWPresident ) forpavingthe
wayandgivingus this valuableopportunity
To God alone be all the glory
Gianna & Joycelyn | Malaysia