From talented singers to successful entrepreneurs, these Filipina Gen Z icons pave the way for women’s empowerment, growth, and a lasting influence that inspires others to fearlessly chase their dreams and break barriers in their respective fields. They teach a valuable lesson among others that hard work, determination, and passion will take you to your preferred destination.
Photo: Bianca Bustamante, BINI, and Niana Guerrero/Instagram
Their small and humble journeys serve as a testament to the power of resilience and ambition, proving that success is attainable as long as you work hard and trust your timing. By staying true to themselves and embracing their unique individuality, they inspire countless others to pursue their own paths with confidence and purpose.
Here are the ten Filipina Gen Z icons who are inspiring the next generation:
1. BINI
BINI is taking the world by storm—and all for the right reasons.
View this post on Instagram
Crowned as the Nation’s Girl Group, the phenomenal P-pop group has emerged as one of the leading acts in the music industry. Several of their hit songs, such as Karera and Blooming, are not only catchy but also share a valuable message—not just for their fans but for their global listeners as well.
Outside of the group, the eight charming members also showcase who they are by achieving their individual goals or partaking in advocacy programs that inspire others. For instance, BINI Jhoanna embraced her love for broadcasting when she guested as a “Star Patroller” at TV Patrol, while BINI Aiah launched her advocacy programs in 2024 during the “ber” months.
Seeing these eight young girls, who dreamed of making a mark in the industry, blossom into talented and empowered women serves as an inspiration to goal-getters and aspiring musicians that hard work truly pays off in the end.
2. Olivia Rodrigo
From a dreamer to an international pop star, Olivia Rodrigo has the guts to take charge of her life!
View this post on Instagram
It is no surprise that the 22-year-old singer-songwriter is making waves with her music, but one thing that makes her shine is her strong beliefs and impactful advocacies. Following her sold-out concert in Philippine Arena last October 2024, she donated all proceeds to Jhpiego, a nonprofit organization that empowers women and supports women’s health.
“I’m so proud of all the work we’ve done and all the money we’ve gotten to donate to these charities through Fund 4 Good,” she shared.
3. Bianca Bustamante
In a male-dominated sport, Bianca Bustamante continues to break barriers in motorsports.
View this post on Instagram
If you are looking for a sign to pursue a sport or hobby that you love—this is it! The 20-year-old Filipina racer, who made history as the first female to join the McLaren Driver Development Program, remains unstoppable. Last year, she made headlines when she became the lone Filipina who made it to the worldwide list of “Most Marketable Athletes.”
“I’m proud to be Filipina…I think it’s very important to be proud of where you come from, even though it’s a country that’s not very well known for motorsport, she said. “There is an essence of responsibility, [being] a role model in every sense because there is a lot of young girls and boys that look up to me.”
4. Niana Guerrero
At a young age, Niana Guerrero proved that she got moves!
View this post on Instagram
With a whopping 76.3 million followers across Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok combined, the 19-year-old dancer and content creator continues to inspire global audiences with her electrifying dance moves and her unique way of sharing her life through entertaining and feel-good vlogs.
Name a K-pop idol, and chances are they’ve danced to her choreography! Niana Guerrero is just that girl.
5. Cleo Loque
Indeed, Cleo Loque embodies the iconic Beyoncé lyric: “Diva is a female version of a hustler.”
View this post on Instagram
Cleo, best known as the CEO of a revolutionary innerwear brand, continues to be a role model for young girls and aspiring entrepreneurs, inspiring them to take the next step toward their dreams. Through her informative and engaging TikTok content, she not only shares valuable insights about life and business but also ensures that her fans and followers learn and grow with her along the way.
6. Janet Kyla Cañete
Janet Kyla Cañete is another young businesswoman to watch out for!
View this post on Instagram
Known as the owner of a popular jewelry brand, this goal-getter is never afraid to take space and make a mark in a highly competitive field. Apart from her ever-growing business, she also encourages learning and growth through the informative content she shares on TikTok and Instagram.
7. Janina Vela
If someone asks you to name an OG YouTuber, you’ll definitely say Janina Vela!
View this post on Instagram
The 25-year-old content creator gained popularity on YouTube for sharing makeup tutorials, DIY projects, gift ideas, and lifestyle vlogs that resonated with her audiences. As time progressed, she began posting videos where she talked about important socio-political issues.
While she’s no longer sharing her daily life on YouTube, she continues to use her platform to inspire and educate her followers, highlighting political issues, mental health awareness, and youth empowerment, among others.
8. Belle Mariano
Witnessing Belle Mariano’s growth from a child star to a talented young actress is one for the books!
View this post on Instagram
The 22-year-old singer-actress, whom we’ve come to love and admire for her standout performances in hit projects like He’s Into Her, Can’t Buy Me Love, and How to Spot a Red Flag, has not only showcased her incredible talent but has also proven to be a great role model to her fans and viewers.
This time, the award-winning actress is prioritizing her solo professional pursuits as she is set to star in a full-length feature film with renowned film director Cathy Garcia-Sampana: “In everything I do naman, as much as I can, I try to enlighten myself with the things I don’t know yet.”
9. Ashtine Olviga
Slowly but surely, Ashtine Olviga is making a mark in the industry.
View this post on Instagram
Following the breakthrough success of the ongoing youth-oriented show Ang Mutya ng Section E, the young actress is making waves on social media for her impeccable performance as Jean Jasper “JayJay” Mariano. Her portrayal of the strong-willed and dynamic character has captivated worldwide audiences, making her a dominating force in the show.
Through JayJay, she empowers young women to stand their ground and be fearlessly genuine and unapologetically confident in who they are.
10. Yani Villarosa
Yani Villarosa, more known online as @yanihatesu, shows everyone that it is okay to showcase your “most authentic” self on social media!
View this post on Instagram
The social media personality, who rose to internet fame for sharing funny and relatable skits on X (formerly Twitter), has expanded her platform to not only entertain but also empower her followers—encouraging them to be more aware of social issues and embrace their true selves.
ALSO READ: “Women in Focus” Photo Exhibit Honors Empowered Women From All Walks of Life
What are your thoughts on this? Tell us in the comments!
