Mothers as Changemakers: Building Families and Transforming Societies

In discussions about women empowerment, migration, gender equality, employment, discrimination, and inclusivity, one critical perspective is often overlooked—that of mothers. While they are central to shaping families, communities, and future generations, their contributions remain undervalued and taken for granted.

Mothers wear many hats. Some carry the wisdom of generations, having raised not just their children but their grandchildren as well. Others juggle careers and family life, navigating an often unforgiving work environment that demands productivity while offering little flexibility. Still, many dedicate themselves fully to the home, raising children, managing households, and performing unpaid labor that is rarely acknowledged. Regardless of their circumstances, these women thrive, inspire, and continue to learn and contribute in meaningful ways.

The Grandmothers: Pillars of Strength and Generational Wisdom

Grandmothers are the silent yet steadfast anchors of many families. They have witnessed generations of change, carrying the experiences of struggle, sacrifice, and perseverance. While many of them grew up in eras where women’s roles were strictly defined, they have adapted and continued to pass on wisdom to the next generation.

They play an irreplaceable role as caregivers, mentors, and the keepers of cultural traditions. Yet, society often fails to recognize their importance beyond their function in the household. In an age where the elderly are frequently sidelined, how can grandmothers continue to shape and transform society with the knowledge and resilience they hold?

The Working Mothers: Balancing Career and Family in an Unequal World

For working mothers, the challenge is relentless—balancing professional aspirations with the responsibilities of home and family. In the workplace, they are often expected to perform at the same level as their peers while managing the physical and emotional demands of motherhood. Many workplaces remain structured around outdated norms, making it difficult for mothers to access equal opportunities.

Despite these struggles, working mothers persist and advocate for better policies, flexible work arrangements, and equal pay. They serve as role models, proving that motherhood and career success are not mutually exclusive. But the question remains: How can workplaces and society at large do more to support these women in their pursuit of both personal and professional fulfillment?

The Stay-at-Home Mothers: Unseen, Unpaid, Yet Indispensable

The contributions of stay-at-home mothers are often invisible in discussions about labor and productivity, yet they perform some of the most critical work—raising children, managing households, and providing the emotional and physical care that sustains families. Despite the value of their contributions, they are often asked, “Do you work?”—as if their efforts do not count simply because they do not receive a paycheck.

Stay-at-home mothers are educators, nurturers, and community builders, and many of them find ways to engage in social causes, creative projects, and advocacy work while still fulfilling their responsibilities at home. The challenge lies in shifting societal perceptions to recognize and value unpaid labor. What if stay-at-home mothers were given the same level of respect and acknowledgment as professionals?

Mothers as Changemakers: How Can They Transform Society?

Across generations and circumstances, mothers have consistently found ways to thrive, inspire, and remain productive members of society. The grandmothers pass on wisdom, working mothers push for equality, and stay-at-home mothers ensure the next generation is nurtured and guided.

But how can we create a world where mothers—regardless of their roles—are fully recognized as agents of change? What policies, support systems, and societal shifts are needed to ensure that they do not have to choose between their personal aspirations and their responsibilities?

In this year’s celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, we gather to honor the pivotal role of mothers in shaping families and transforming societies. The theme, “Mothers as Changemakers: Building Families & Transforming Societies,” recognizes that the heart of a mother beats not only for her children but also for the communities she nurtures and strengthens.

This event will highlight:

• The Heart of a Mother: Exploring the depth of a mother’s love, resilience, and capacity to influence change.
• Challenges in Meeting Their Potential: The barriers mothers face in developing their talents and participating fully in society.
• Empowered Mothers as Catalysts for Change: When given opportunities, resources, and recognition, mothers can unlock their potential, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and become changemakers in their own right.

To bring these perspectives to life, we are privileged to have as speakers three of our very own Bayanihan women who are happy to share their personal journeys:

• Nora van der Does-Gonzales, representing grandmothers, will reflect on the strength and wisdom that come with raising generations and adapting to changing times.
• Veronica Balbuena, representing working mothers, will shed light on the challenges of balancing career and family while pushing for gender equality in the workplace.
• Myra Zymelka-Colis, representing stay-at-home mothers, will speak about the often-unseen labor of caregiving, the value of raising a family full-time, and how mothers can continue to find purpose and fulfillment beyond societal expectations.

Through their stories, we will explore the struggles, triumphs, and impact of motherhood—proving that no matter the path, every mother has the power to be a changemaker.

The Heart of a Mother: A Reflection on the Power of Maternal Love and Resilience

These stories of grandmothers, working mothers, and stay-at-home mothers come together in a common thread—resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering love. This theme is beautifully captured in the book The Heart of a Mother by Maya Butalid, which will be featured in the program. Additionally, PINANAYS‘ community leader Mary Blanche Pennings will share her insights as the book reviewer.

As we listen to the stories of our speakers, The Heart of a Mother serves as a reminder that mothers, in all their forms, are changemakers. They are the builders of families, the mentors of future generations, and the quiet revolutionaries who transform the world through their everyday actions.

Join Us This International Women’s Day!

This March 8, we invite you to be part of a special gathering that celebrates the strength, resilience, and transformative power of mothers in our families and communities. Through inspiring discussions, creative showcases, and a collective call to action, let’s come together to #AccelerateAction for gender equality.

🔹 Hear from empowering speakers who have redefined motherhood as a force for change.
🔹 Celebrate the launch of The Heart of a Mother and its message of love, resilience, and transformation.
🔹 Connect with a community that values and uplifts the voices of women and mothers.

📢 RSVP & Share this invitation with friends, family, and colleagues—because when we stand together, change becomes unstoppable!

TO CONFIRM ATTENDANCE, PLEASE SEND AN EMAIL TO INFO@BAYANIHAN.NL.

SEE PROGRAM FOR DETAILS