IKK Podcast

She is a manifestation of a true independent and empowered woman. Xyrille, a breadwinner, is highly focused on reaching her goals and realizing her dreams. She knows what she wants and she sets the standards for herself because she knows her worth. As an LGBTQIA+ member and advocate, she hopes for a community free from violence and discrimination.

Joana and Yries were in two different worlds when their story began. Despite of what seemed impossible, the universe conspired and moved their worlds closer together. Nine months later, they found themselves being each other’s safe place and refuge. They hope for a society that is well-aware and accepting of the existence and inclusion of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Ruffy grew up in a typical Filipino community where gays were usually discriminated and, at the same time, celebrated. Despite the harsh society, Ruffy is proud of his childhood because of the people that made it colorful. He takes pride in the story that makes him the person that he is today. He has high hopes that, one day, people will finally understand who the LGBTQIA+ people are and the society will be more welcoming of the rainbow community.

Ruffy is a freelance host and singer. Contact him through 09154936920 or his social media accounts for your next events.

Maria Clara Café is not just a home to Karlo, Ferds, and Raff. It’s also a safe space for everyone – the LGBTQIA+ community, the talented local artists, the worth-seeing drag performances, and even someone who just needs a break from stress and pressure of life.#LasangPagibig is everything that Maria Clara stands for. It’s a multi-senses experience – you feel the love, you eat the love, you smell the love, you hear the love. It’s about being in an environment where one accepts and supports the other. #LasangPagibig more is than just a taste. It’s a space and moment that everyone deserves to experience.Maria Clara Cafe opens 11am to 10pm everyday at WISCO Compound, Lot 2 Brgy. Katipunan, Quezon City (right across Blue Residences’ lobby). Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @mariaclarabaked for updates.Thanks to Marj Romualdez for co-hosting this episode and for doing the voiceover for Maria Clara.

This is our women’s month special finale. And in honor of the International Transgender Day of Visibility that is celebrated every 31st of March, we talk to the Miss Trans Global Philippines 2021 second runner-up, Mickey Alonso, who uses her platform for various causes to educate and raise awareness in pursuit of safe spaces for the generation of today and the future.

Her journey as a single parent raising a child with autism made her realize that she can survive without a man in her life. Her son gives her a special strength and courage to keep going everyday despite the odds. In this episode, Nancy proves that women are capable of surviving and succeeding life with and without men in their lives.

On the third week of the women’s month, we talk to a Diversity & Inclusion Supervisor of Teleperformance Philippines. We talk about women in the workplace and women-focused programs implemented at work to close gender gap. We also discuss how capable women employees are to take a job that is perceived as a man’s job.

Anne joins the conversation about midlife crisis and other life challenges. She shares her hesitation on allowing herself to be vulnerable as someone who is perceived as a life of a party.

She fought and beat cancer, lost a woman that she loved, lost an ally during the most challenging times, was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism right after winning cancer, and has responsibilities competing with her battles. She has all the reasons to give up, but despite all those life-crushing challenges she faced and is facing, she remained optimistic and strong. She always chooses to look at the bright side of everything because that is what she is – A STRONG EMPOWERED WOMAN. #ConFidentlyStrong

Trigger Warning: This episode contains stories and topics related to suicide. If this subject causes you distress, please skip this episode. When you are experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available. The National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline is available 24/7 at 0966-351-4518.