How Freelancing Empowers Women: The Female Experience at Dilaab Digitals
- Dilaab Digitals
- Mar 26
- 8 min read
The rise of freelancing has been nothing short of revolutionary, especially for women seeking flexibility, financial independence, and career growth on their own terms. In 2023, the virtual assistance industry alone had over 30 million professionals worldwide.
With an annual growth rate of 25.7%, that number skyrocketed to an astounding 1.56 billion freelancers by 2025. Notably, 13% of these freelancers hail from the Philippines, where women make up 62% of the country’s freelancer workforce.
At Dilaab Digitals, inclusivity isn’t just a value—it’s a reality. With 66% of our team members being women, we recognize and celebrate the power of freelancing in transforming lives. This article explores how freelancing has become a game-changer for women, offering career control, financial freedom, and the elusive work-life balance many have long sought.
How Freelancing Empowers Women
Career Control & Independence
Unlike traditional workplaces, freelancing gives women the freedom to choose their clients, projects, and schedules. This flexibility allows them to align their careers with their personal goals, whether that means pursuing passion projects, upskilling, or balancing work with family life. Many women have successfully transitioned into freelancing, leaving behind rigid corporate structures to find greater fulfillment and purpose in remote work.
Stories of Success: Women Who Took Charge of Their Careers
For Chenny Cantano, freelancing is more than just a profession—it’s a gateway to true career freedom.
As she reflects on her journey this Women’s Month, she defines career freedom as “having the ability to shape my own path, make choices that align with my values, and create a work-life balance that allows me to grow both professionally and personally.”
Her experience with Dilaab Digitals has been instrumental in shaping this independence. Through the opportunities she has gained, Chenny has expanded her skill set, worked with inspiring clients, and collaborated with a team that prioritizes growth and empowerment. “More than just tasks, I’ve gained confidence, adaptability, and a deeper understanding of leadership and communication—all of which are shaping me into a stronger professional woman,” she shares.
Beyond professional success, freelancing has allowed Chenny to take charge of her financial future, even stepping up as the breadwinner of her family. This Women’s Month, she celebrates not just her own achievements but also the resilience and brilliance of women everywhere. “Here’s to embracing opportunities, lifting each other up, and thriving in spaces where we’re meant to shine.”
For Nirabelle Hongcuay, career freedom is about flexibility—the ability to work on projects she enjoys while still managing her time as a college student. “It’s about choosing work that helps me grow, setting my own schedule, and not feeling stuck in one place,” she shares.
Freelancing has allowed her to gain real-world experience without compromising her studies or personal life.
Her journey with Dilaab Digitals has been a valuable stepping stone in her professional growth. Through her work, she has honed her marketing skills, collaborated with real clients, and gained the confidence to take on new challenges. “I also get to be creative, try new things, and work with an amazing team,” she says. More than just a job, freelancing has helped her discover her passion within the marketing world and shape the path she wants to take in her career.
Financial Freedom: Earning on Their Own Terms
Freelancing levels the playing field, allowing women to earn based on their skills and expertise rather than being limited by workplace biases like wage gaps. With access to global opportunities and competitive pay, women can take control of their financial futures, whether by becoming breadwinners, supporting their families, or funding personal aspirations.
Inspiring Journeys: Women Who Achieved Financial Independence
For Maria Sophia Clarissa Primacio Gutual, freelancing has been a path to financial independence, allowing her to support both herself and her family. “It is where I no longer depend on my parents nor my husband, but on my own income. It is where I can freely buy my own wants,” she shares.
Her success in freelancing has recently enabled her to take on even greater responsibilities. Starting this year, she has been able to pay for her parents’ bills and groceries while also providing for her own growing family. “I could afford to buy my pregnancy needs and my upcoming baby’s needs. Despite the expenses, I also have some money left for my savings,” she says. Through freelancing, she has built a stable and fulfilling career that gives her both financial security and the freedom to take care of the people who matter most.
Work-Life Balance
Freelancing empowers women—especially mothers and students—to manage their careers without sacrificing their personal responsibilities. By working remotely, they can balance childcare, education, and household duties while still earning a sustainable income. Beyond that, freelancing provides the flexibility to pursue passions, travel, or focus on personal well-being, creating a career that truly fits their lifestyle.
Real Stories: Women Who Found Work-Life Harmony
For Hazel Bonutan, freelancing has been a journey of growth, teaching her not only how to earn but also how to manage time effectively. “I learned the importance of time management to gain balance between work and personal life,” she shares.
Freelancing has allowed her to wear different hats—both professionally and personally—while still leaving room for exploration and self-improvement.
One of the biggest advantages she has gained is the flexibility that a traditional 9-to-5 job couldn’t offer. “The one thing I can do now that wasn’t possible in a 9-5 job is the flexibility of time, which allows me to focus on personal growth, like training and exploring,” she says. Working with individuals who value flexibility has given her the freedom to shape her career while continuously learning and evolving.
For Analie Derequito, freelancing has provided the flexibility to balance multiple roles—as a virtual assistant, a student, a daughter, and a friend.
Unlike a rigid 9-to-5 setup, freelancing allows her to integrate work and personal responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed. “I can adjust my schedule to meet academic deadlines, complete work tasks efficiently, and still be present for my family,” she shares.
One of the most significant changes in her life has been gaining full control over her time. “I can schedule work around my classes, attend important family events without needing permission, and take breaks when I need to recharge,” she says. This freedom has not only made her more productive but has also greatly improved her overall well-being—something she couldn’t achieve in a traditional office setting. Through freelancing, she has found a way to thrive in both her professional and personal life.
For Angela Tolentino, freelancing is more than just flexible work—it has helped her grow in all aspects of life.
“It pushed me to get myself together,” she shares, noting that beyond financial stability, it has made her more responsible for her health, family, and personal goals.
Despite the freedom to work on her own schedule, Angela remains disciplined. “I treat it as a scheduled commitment daily,” she explains, ensuring she balances productivity with personal time.
“After all, what’s hard work if you can’t feel it pay off?”
Freelancing has also opened doors to new experiences, allowing her to explore new places and work with diverse professionals. “It brought me opportunities to grow in ways I never expected,” she says.
Most importantly, it has given her a head start in financial independence. “It’s not a 9-5. It’s just my 5-9,” she adds, embracing a career that aligns with her ambitions. Through freelancing, Angela has found not just a job, but a path to freedom, growth, and endless opportunities.
Diohanne’s Vision for an Inclusive Culture
At the heart of Dilaab Digitals’ vibrant and inclusive work culture is Ms. Diohanne Marie Pantoja, our dedicated Culture Officer. With a passion for fostering collaboration, empowerment, and a sense of belonging, she plays a crucial role in shaping the company’s values and work environment. Through initiatives that promote diversity, personal growth, and community engagement, Ms. Pantoja ensures that Dilaab is not just a workplace but a thriving support system where women—and all freelancers—can flourish.
In this segment, she shares her insights on how a strong company culture enhances the freelancing experience, empowering women to succeed in both their professional and personal lives.
Women’s Inclusion at Dilaab
As freelancing continues to transform the workforce, Dilaab Digitals remains committed to creating a space where women can thrive, lead, and succeed. Recognizing that freelancing is more than just a career path, the company sees it as a gateway to independence, leadership, and long-term impact.
As part of Culture Officer Diohanne Marie Pantoja’s vision for an inclusive culture, Dilaab prioritizes equal opportunities, mentorship, and upskilling for female virtual assistants. “Dilaab Digitals is committed to creating a future where freelancing is truly inclusive and accessible for all women,” she shares. By fostering a work environment where women are not just participants but decision-makers and innovators, the company ensures that career growth is based on talent and skills rather than limitations.
Education and community also play a vital role in this mission. Through free training programs and a strong support network, Dilaab empowers women to take on high-value opportunities while building connections with mentors and peers. “We will cultivate a network where women can share knowledge, find mentors, and collaborate on projects,” Diohanne emphasizes.
Through these initiatives, Dilaab Digitals is reshaping freelancing into a space where women don’t just work—they lead, grow, and create lasting change. The company remains dedicated to breaking barriers and uplifting women in the digital workforce, proving that when women succeed, the entire industry thrives.
Supportive Workplace Culture
At Dilaab Digitals, empowering female freelancers isn’t just about providing work—it’s about creating a culture where women feel valued, respected, and celebrated. As part of Culture Officer Diohanne Marie Pantoja’s vision, Dilaab ensures women can thrive both professionally and personally.
“We go the extra mile to ensure our female freelancers feel valued,” shares a team representative. Whether it’s a career milestone, personal achievement, or major life transition, Dilaab recognizes and uplifts women at every stage of their journey.
Flexibility is key to this vision. Women juggling careers and family responsibilities don’t have to choose between the two—they set their own schedules and take control of their careers. Beyond that, mentorship and community support ensure no woman freelancing with Dilaab feels alone. “We make sure every woman has guidance, upskilling opportunities, and a network of support.”
Above all, Dilaab is committed to a safe, inclusive workplace where every woman is treated with respect and given equal opportunities to succeed. Through Diohanne’s leadership, Dilaab continues to be a place where women break barriers, thrive, and build careers on their own terms.
Future of Women in Freelancing
Freelancing is evolving, and women are at the heart of this transformation. As part of Dilaab Digitals’ Culture Officer Diohanne Marie Pantoja’s vision for an inclusive freelance space, more women are embracing freelancing not just as a side hustle, but as a sustainable and independent career.
“More women are choosing freelancing as a way to achieve financial independence, work on their own terms, and balance their personal lives,” Diohanne shares. With remote work becoming more accessible, women are taking control of their careers, stepping beyond traditional office structures, and building opportunities that align with their goals.
Beyond freelancing, women are becoming industry leaders, launching their own agencies, leading major projects, and shaping the digital economy. As freelancing expands, the demand for better work-life balance and mental well-being is growing, with women driving the push for flexibility, inclusivity, and healthier work environments.
Opportunities in high-paying digital fields are also increasing. With the right mentorship and training, more women are excelling in technology, digital marketing, AI, and business consulting—fields once dominated by men.
The future of freelancing is being shaped by women who are redefining career success, breaking barriers, and leading change. Under Diohanne’s leadership, Dilaab remains committed to fostering an inclusive space where women can thrive, innovate, and build fulfilling careers.
Women Thriving, Breaking Barriers
Freelancing has become a powerful tool for women seeking financial independence, flexibility, and personal fulfillment. It allows them to build meaningful careers while balancing family, education, and personal growth. From gaining new skills to leading their own businesses, women are reshaping the freelance landscape and proving that success is not confined to traditional work structures.
At Dilaab Digitals, empowering women is more than just a mission—it’s a commitment. Through equal opportunities, supportive communities, and accessible training, Dilaab ensures that female freelancers have the resources they need to thrive. As part of Culture Officer Diohanne Marie Pantoja’s vision for an inclusive workplace, the company continues to create a space where women can grow, lead, and succeed on their own terms.
For women looking to take control of their careers, freelancing offers a path filled with possibilities. If you’re ready to explore a future where work aligns with your goals and lifestyle, Dilaab Digitals welcomes you to join its community of driven, empowered women.
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