There comes a time in a woman’s life when her perspective on the world shifts—positively, hopefully, and more extensively—all thanks to the media she’d immerse herself in.
It’s a “canon event” for women from all walks of life, leading back to the dreams and goals they planted in their hearts since childhood. For some, it might be a book they read in school that they didn’t understand until revisiting it years later. Others might remember a certain film they watched with their families and friends, with a distinct female character that they immediately saw themselves in. It can even be a hit song by your favorite female artist, with a timeless message that will remain relevant even decades after its release.
Photo: Friends, Laufey
The strong women of WhenInManila.com (WIM) know this fleeting yet life-changing experience from the back of their heads. They wouldn’t be the inspiring “girl bosses” they are today without the movies, TV shows, books, and songs that left a permanent mark on their hearts.
Though National Women’s Month is almost over, we’re celebrating women’s voices and stories all year-round. If you’ve ever felt stuck in “survival mode” and need a little push to keep moving forward, these media recommendations from the women of WIM strive to do exactly that.
Do you resonate with any of the inspiring titles on our list? See for yourself as we delve into the team’s go-to titles that radiate with “girl power.”
View this post on Instagram
Instead of a single book or movie, my ultimate recommendation this month is to curate a digital space filled with fitness. Watching women of all ages shatter stereotypes by pushing their physical limits online is my daily media inspiration. It effectively redefines what women’s fitness “should” look like, shifting the focus from aesthetics to the incredible things our bodies can actually achieve. My takeaway for this generation is simple: Always make time for wellness. We must treat exercise and good habits as non-negotiable investments rather than afterthoughts. We are the engines of our own lives—and we have to maintain that engine if we plan to go the distance. – Sky Gavin, Chief Operations Officer
- Furiously Happy by Jenny Slate,
- The Constant Poet’s blog and anthologies,
- Every song Maya Hawke has ever made,
- BoJack Horseman,
- Night Watch by Terry Pratchett, and
- Sanders Sides by Thomas Sanders on YouTube.
- – Therese Aseoche, Associate Editor
Friends, because of Rachel Green. She is an icon for a reason—but what I learned from her is that if you don’t like where you are in life, you are allowed to change your course at any point in time. As a woman, you are not limited to just being someone’s wife, and you can have both a career and a loving family.
Suits, because of Jessica Pearson, Donna Paulsen, and Rachel Zane. They are role models at different stages of a woman’s career.
Mad Men, ironically. I learned from watching this how “mad men” work, and it made me think about how much times have changed. But also how women (whether Peggy Olson or Betty Draper) added value in that kind of environment—and how women today have that same power, and even more, given our current resources. – Gizelle Caoile, Content Creation Manager
One film that has touched me to my core is Life is Beautiful. It portrays selfless love, especially within a family, and reminds me of the quiet strength and sacrifice that often define parenthood.
As a mom, I also love watching The InBESTigators with my kids. It’s light, smart, and empowering in its own way, showing young girls (and boys) how to navigate through life by owning up to their mistakes, learning how to apologize, and showing how to be a good friend and citizen. The show empowers young children to be confident and curious problem-solvers. – Jo Tan, Business Development Associate
View this post on Instagram
I’d recommend the book Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth. I was never the smart or “gifted” girl, or the favorite, but with Grit, I learned that you can achieve anything you put your heart into. – Nikki Viola, Content Creator
I’d have to say The Good Place! It doesn’t focus entirely on women, but it’s all about being a good person in general. Mapapaisip ka talaga about life. Para akong bumabait after each episode! Watching it feels like I’m on a retreat; it honestly gives me a whole new perspective on everything. It’s the perfect mix of comedy and drama, and may pagka-horror vibe pa siya for me. It really shaped my outlook on just… being better. – Crizelle de Guzman, Content Creator
I love Garry Marshall’s Runaway Bride. Some aspects of the film may feel dated or problematic, but I love how it teaches you about self-worth. It reminds you not to be afraid to take your time figuring out what you want (even something as simple as how you like your eggs cooked). You don’t have to shapeshift into someone else just to be loved or accepted. You just have to know who you are, and the right person will follow. – Jia Bote, Junior Desk Editor
“Fight Song” by Rachel Platten. It’s a “generational hit” for all the best reasons! – Andrea Surnit, Desk Writer/Editor
Laufey’s A Matter of Time is one gem of an album. Each emotionally intense track is full of surprises, humor, and even some blink-and-you’ll-miss-it themes that keep you on your toes with every listen. This album explores womanhood and all of its complexities with a tender yet critical eye. It makes ample room for conversations on adult friendships, unrequited love, self-discovery, and bittersweet odes to your younger self. And who better to understand these multi-layered views than the “Lover Girl” herself? – Andrea Posadas, Features Writer
ALSO READ: HERitage Market Returns to Celebrate Women-Led Brands
What are your favorite Women’s Month media picks? Share them with us in the comments below!
Do you have a story for the WhenInManila.com Team? Email us at wheninmanila@gmail.com or send us a direct message at WhenInManila.com’s Facebook Page. Interact with the team and join the WhenInManila.com community at WIM Squad, and join our Viber group to stay updated with the latest around the Philippines and beyond!
