What makes a beautiful story?

For over three decades, Charo Santos had been the master storyteller on television, tasked with narrating the inspiring tales of Filipinos through letters sent in to her program “Maalaala Mo Kaya.”

Even she has a compelling story to tell, one of resilience, tenacity, and graciousness, which she shared at the Women Lead Conference 2024 spearheaded by the Italian Chamber of Commerce in celebration of the International Women’s Day.

Charo was among the esteemed list of speakers who shared their empowering stories, thoughts, and expertise to inspire women to excel in their chosen professions and reach for the future they want, regardless of obstacles.

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She recounted her journey of climbing the ranks from being a ‘probinsyana’ to navigating a bigger world as a network executive. “My life has been a constant uphill battle. From my probinsyana beginnings to the boardroom, my road to success has been full of challenges,” she wrote on Instagram.

Charo acknowledged that hosting MMK was a defining moment in her career and life as a woman, as the heartfelt stories of Filipinos she had the privilege to share not only touched her deeply but also served as her source of motivation.

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A post shared by Charo Santos (@charosantos)

“People often thank me for making a difference in their lives through MMK. But it is I who should be grateful to them. Their stories of prevailing over the toughest of odds ground me and lift me up during my times of self-doubt and despair,” she said in her speech.

“Through MMK, I experienced God’s handiwork first-hand and gained a deeper appreciation of what it is and how it is to be human. I have become a better person because of MMK,” she added.