Empowering Women. Inspiring Hope.
Free Virtual Assistant Training for Women in Mindanao.
Our Story
Born from Hope, Built for Women.
Paglaum Women’s Project was founded to bridge a critical gap — the lack of accessible, skills-based opportunities for women in Mindanao. Too often, talented women are held back by barriers like poverty, limited education, and lack of access to technology. We believe that with the right skills, mentorship, and support, every woman has the power to transform her own life and uplift her community. Paglaum — meaning "hope" — is more than our name; it is the future we are building, one empowered woman at a time.
Our Mission and Vision
Equip women in Mindanao with digital skills to unlock remote work and economic freedom.
A future where women lead, thrive, and uplift communities through knowledge and opportunity.
Our Impact
Lives Changed. Futures Brightened.
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Meet The Hearts Behind Paglaum
At the core of the Paglaum Women’s Project is a passionate team of women (and allies!) who believe in the power of community, skills, and second chances. Together, we bring diverse backgrounds in education, digital work, community organizing, and mentorship — all united by one goal: to create pathways of hope and opportunity for women across Mindanao.
Paul Cody
Founder
Paul is an intelligent investor and adventurous individual who has lived and worked in various places, including Missouri, Wyoming, Alaska, Colorado, Arkansas, Florida, Afghanistan and the Philippines. An avid tennis player, Paul has spent 16 years in the Philippines, fully embracing its culture and the warmth of its people.
Having observed the challenges faced by many Filipinos due to insufficient wages, Paul recognizes the potential of remote work opportunities.
As an investor, he is committed to supporting the Women Empowering Project, which encourages Filipina to step out of their comfort zones, becoming more productive, and achieve financial stability.
Winnie Cody
Co-Founder
Winnie is a Philippine Registered Nurse and Freelancer since 2009, currently working as a Medical/ Healthcare Virtual Assistant for various U. S. clients since August 2023. She is HIPAA-certified.
She has served as Treasurer of Doña Rosa Association for almost four years and as Vice President of Doña Rosa Women’s Association. A Volunteer Rescuer in DAREUN since 2000'till the present.
As a nurse, she is deeply committed to supporting her fellow Filipinos through health and financial assistance. She is passionate about empowering women by promoting mental health, balance living and providing encouragement, digital opportunity and health advice.
Carmi Fronteras
Advocate | Lead Trainer
Carmi is a seasoned freelancer based in Davao City, specializing in Operations Management, Executive Assistance, Search Engine Optimization, Voice Over Talent, and as a Radio Personality. She proudly serves as the Brand Ambassador for the 2024 World of Search SEO Conference and is a dedicated Trainer at Down South Trainers, focusing on Search Engine Optimization.
As the co-founder of the Davao Freelancers Community, Carmi is deeply committed to fostering a sustainable ecosystem that empowers both aspiring and experienced online freelancers. Her passion for community-building and professional excellence has earned her recognition as one of the Global Women Who Rule 2024 Profiles.
Relevant Links:
Website
Global Women Who Rule 2024 Speech @ 6:12:45
Jeralyn Siase
Advocate | Trainer
Jeralyn is a well-versed freelancer based in Digos City. Her career began in 2008 as a writer. Over the years, she has expanded her expertise and now focuses on project management for a digital marketing agency and operations.
As the founder of the Digos City Freelancers Group, Jeralyn is dedicated to empowering aspiring virtual assistants by hosting a free weekly webinar in which she shares valuable insights and guidance to help them succeed online.
In addition, she is part of Down South Trainers, an agency development coach set to launch in January 2025. Jeralyn's passion for community-building and professional growth drives her efforts to support and uplift others in the freelance and digital marketing industry.
Relevant Links: Website
Jenneth Perez
Advocate | Trainer
Jenneth is a seasoned freelancer based in Davao City, specializing in executive assistance, project management, and Kajabi platform management. Her freelancing career has allowed her to work with entrepreneurs and businesses across various industries, building a reputation for reliability and excellence.
A proud leader within the Davao Freelancers Community, Jenneth headed the sports team, promoting camaraderie, wellness, and teamwork among fellow freelancers. She is passionate about creating spaces where remote workers can connect beyond the screen.
She is also part of Down South Trainers, where she coaches aspiring virtual assistants on becoming Executive VAs, sharing her knowledge, tools, and strategies to help them navigate the online workspace and build thriving careers.
Relevant Links: Website
Chrisha Klaire Cabaya
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Become a Beacon of Hope.
Every sponsorship directly fuels the dreams and futures of women ready to rise.
Join our volunteer community
Engaging the community is vital to the success of our initiatives. We believe that collaboration with local stakeholders enhances our efforts and fosters a sense of ownership among those we serve.
