How Lazada's Epic 11th Birthday Sale celebrated women entrepreneurs and self-expression through fashion
This year’s International Women’s Month theme is DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality, a fitting theme that celebrates the contributions of women in technology and innovation. Filipino women have been at the forefront of innovation and have significantly contributed to various fields, including fashion.
Lazada's Epic 11th Birthday celebration last week was an exciting event commemorating its milestone of becoming an eCommerce leader and fashion and beauty destination. The event featured Lazada ambassadors, including Bea Alonzo, Alden Richards, Mimiyuuh, and more! Lazada also highlighted the significant contributions of two women entrepreneurs and Lazada sellers, Pia Ugarte and Evan Maderazo, who helped promote the company's mission to uplift all entrepreneurs - men or women - and give everyone a chance to be on a platform like Lazada's.
Filipino women have made significant contributions to the fashion industry, with many emerging as notable designers, stylists, and models. One notable example is Pia Ugarte, a prominent entrepreneur and CEO of Viajecito. I met her during Lazada's Epic 11th Birthday in Market! Market! Such a humble and accommodating person, Pia patiently and excitedly waited for her turn to be interviewed about her journey as an entrepreneur. "*Don't give up. Just continue working and perfecting your craft, and you'll get there. There are no shortcuts in building a business or entrepreneurship,"*she said when asked to give a few words of encouragement to fellow aspiring women entrepreneurs.
Moreover, Pia also happily shared that her company is 100% women-led. *"We are a women-led company. Although there are men who help us get through operations, most of our employees are women, and they are all magnificent,"* she added.
She also shared that she is grateful to Lazada for allowing them to hear their voice and showcase their products. “*Many brands or companies closed during the pandemic, but we were fortunate enough to extend opportunities to others in need, thanks to Lazada and our loyal customers,*” she added.
Viajecito is a travel accessories brand that Pia Ugarte founded. The brand is known for its splash-proof and tarnish-proof bags and specializes in creating stylish and functional travel essentials that make traveling more accessible and enjoyable. Viajecito offers many products, including its classy and famous Splash Kit, which is available in many colors that women can enjoy and use in any kind of event. Check out the complete list of items on their website or Lazada account.
One of the unique aspects of Viajecito is that all its products are handmade by local artisans in the Philippines. This helps support local communities and ensures the products are of the highest quality. Viajecito also uses sustainable materials, such as eco-friendly leather and recycled fabrics, to minimize their environmental impact.
Another significant woman is Evan Maderazo, Founder and CEO of Sundals, an online store specializing in handmade sandals. Maderazo started the brand to create high-quality, sustainable footwear that is comfortable and stylish. Evan's inspiration for starting Sundals came from her passion for footwear and desire to create something unique that would stand out in the market. She began by experimenting with different designs and materials, using her own feet as a reference to ensure that each sandal was comfortable to wear.
*“Kapag Nanay ka na kasi, hindi talaga pwedeng aasa ka lang, eh single mom pa ako noon, so talagang you need to work doubly hard,”* she said when asked about her drive when she started Sundals.
Like Viajecito, all of Sundals’ products are handmade by skilled artisans in the Philippines. Evan works closely with these artisans to ensure that each sandal is made to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. She also uses sustainable materials, such as recycled tire soles and eco-friendly leather, to minimize the brand's environmental impact.
*“We really want to contribute to our environment while providing livelihood,”* she said.
Sundals has quickly gained a following in the Philippines and beyond, with customers praising the brand for its unique designs, comfort, and sustainability. Evan's commitment to using sustainable materials and supporting local artisans has helped set Sundals apart from other footwear brands.
Just like Lazada Philippines Head of Marketing Kitty Calderon said, "*as we celebrate our women employees, customers and sellers*
Just like Lazada Philippines Head of Marketing Kitty Calderon said, "*as we celebrate our women employees, customers and sellers*at Lazada this women's month
\*, we are empowered to mount such iconic executions like the LazLook Mannequins,creating enriching experiences and pushing innovation
that seamlessly merges shopping with entertainment and social.”\* As we celebrate International Women's Month this year, let us recognize and honor the impact of Filipino women in shaping our society and inspiring us to strive for excellence, regardless of gender. Everyone is invited to visit the LazLook Mannequin until March 29, 2023, and stay updated on all the programs and promos of #LazadaPH by following [https://www.facebook.com/LazadaPhilippines](https://www.facebook.com/LazadaPhilippines) and [https://www.instagram.com/LazadaPH/](https://www.instagram.com/LazadaPH/). You can also take advantage of the final day of Lazada's 11th Birthday Sale until today, March 13! Indeed, Lazada is the gift that keeps on giving, so join in on all the fun and excitement on this epic birthday celebration! Shop now and make a difference!