WIPO, the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines and the Japan Patent Office jointly organized a Cross-Regional Forum for Women Creators and Entrepreneurs from Asia-Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean. The Forum was held from September 21 to 23, 2026 in Manila, the Philippines, and brought together 34 women creators and entrepreneurs from 15 countries.
What did the Forum cover?
The three-day Forum was practical and interactive, with workshops such as:
- “Amplify Your Voice” focused on defining a consistent brand voice and content planning;
- “Frame It Right” for storytelling, filming and editing with basic intellectual property (IP) consideration;
- “Media Lab” for participants to produce short videos in groups;
- “Creative IP Case Lab” on applying IP in the creative industries; and
- Panel discussions on the protection of handmade works, in addition to the use of licensing and royalties to generate revenue.
Participants also had the unique opportunity to visit the Design Center of the Philippines and the Likhang Filipino Exhibition Halls, where they observed how Filipino design and craftsmanship are developed, branded and positioned for domestic and export markets.
A key milestone at the Forum was the showcase of WIPO’s new community engagement platforms, IP for Her and WIPO FACE. After their participation in the Forum, the women entrepreneurs and creators were encouraged to join the community engagement platforms to continue networking, learning, sharing ideas and advocating for women in IP.
What our participants are saying?
The Cross-Regional Forum brought me face-to-face with remarkable women from every corner of the world, each one brimming with creativity, talent and passion for her work. They inspired me to raise my own bar. We came from very different places, yet we shared the same dream of creating something lasting. I return home with friendships that span continents, fresh tools and perspectives, renewed energy, and memories I will always treasure.
Ms. Priyanjana Bhattarai, Founder of Kala Legal, Nepal
What touched me most was learning from fellow creative entrepreneurs and finding so much of my own journey in theirs. Their stories showed me new ways to grow a creative enterprise while keeping our heritage and women artisans at its heart. I returned to Pakistan with friendships fresh ideas and greater confidence to create more opportunities through our craft.
Ms. Filza Mumtaz, founder and CEO of Shahs and Founder of the Women Economic Empowerment Network, Pakistan
The Cross-Regional Forum gave me the opportunity to meet inspiring women from around the world. It really inspired me to think about what I can do for my company and the people around me, how I can help our community, how important IP is to our creative work, and how we can protect and monetize our creations.
Ms. Anindya Sukarni, Founder of Miumosa, Indonesia
