Filipino American Lawyers of San Diego is thrilled to host the 7th Annual Pinay Powerhouse Conference on March 22-24, 2024!
In 2016, Pinay Powerhouse founders Christine Start, Mari Bandoma Callado, Lorna Garcia De Guzman, Vanessa ICandelaria, and Jennifer Sta. Ana envisioned a women’s conference focused on empowering Filipina attorneys and aspiring attorneys as leaders in the law. The founders’ vision came to fruition in 2017 with the Inaugural Pinay Powerhouse Conference hosted by the Filipino Bar of Northern California in San Francisco, California, and each conference has expanded on this vision.
FALSD is excited to continue this tradition. This year's conference theme is Sun, Sand, & Sampaguita. Sampaguita is the national flower of the Philippines and means “promises,” from the phrase sumpa kita. Our conference theme honors the promises we make to the community and our profession, as well as the promises we make to and keep for ourselves.
The conference will feature prominent speakers on topics of thriving in traditionally white male-dominated industries, LGBTQIA+ issues, and more. Additionally, we will be hosting a Friday evening welcome event, as well as other social events throughout the weekend, showcasing some of our favorite San Diego spots.
We look forward to seeing you in San Diego in March!
Event Information
The Welcome Reception for our attendees will take place at You & Yours Distilling Co., a chic urban distillery known for its artisanal gin and vodka. This modern, airy space boasts a cozy lounge area, setting the perfect backdrop for the start of our weekend. Your conference ticket covers the attendance cost, including two complimentary drinks and a selection of food platters.
This panel will focus on the personal experiences of Pinay leaders in navigating and succeeding in fields or industries historically dominated by white males. The panelists will discuss not only the work in that journey, but also the joy and purpose found along the way. Moderated by Jonah Toleno
Judge Rohanee Zapanta was appointed in 2018 by Governor Brown as the second Filipina American to serve as Superior Court Judge for San Diego County. Judge Zapanta was recently awarded in October 2023 as one the Most Influential Filipina Women in the World by Filipina Women’s Network. She believes in empowering students of diverse backgrounds through celebrating their cultural core values. Judge Zapanta is co-chair and co-founder of the youth project - Brown Faces to the Sun, which celebrates Filipinx-American core values through student workshops and music. She is also co-chair and co-founder of the California Judges Association’s Ethics & Wellness Workshops for first generation law students. Judge Zapanta sits on the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Task Force for the University of San Diego Alumni Board of Directors. She is also a Chief Editor of The Bench - the official journal of the California Judges Association where she regularly contributes a self-assessment column on identity and wellness.
The After Party kicks off at ANIMAE, a restaurant renowned for its sophisticated blend of high-end steak and Asian fusion dishes, all set within a luxurious ambiance. ANIMAE Executive Chef Tara Monsod, embodies Pinay Excellence and brings over a decade of kitchen experience, a lifetime of passion, and a culinary perspective shaped by her upbringing as a Filipino-American. Secure your spot at the After Party for $50 per ticket.