FHTM ranked First Place on the Purple Icon Contest, Champions Women's Empowerment
The Faculty of Hospitality, Tourism, and Management (FHTM) is celebrating a resounding victory after securing first place in the highly anticipated Purple Icon Contest 2025, held in conjunction with National Women's Month 2025 (NWM). The win not only highlights FHTM's creative prowess but also underscores its deep commitment to promoting women's empowerment and gender equality.
The Purple Icon Contest, a yearly event designed and organized by Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) under Gender and Development (GAD) Office spearheaded by Ms. Jona Mae C. Espere, the GAD Officer. The event was to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women, and challenged participants to create a visual representation that embodied the spirit of National Women's Month. FHTM's winning entry, a vibrant and thought-provoking display, captivated judges and onlookers alike with its powerful message and artistic execution.
While details of the winning icon are being kept under wraps for a larger reveal, sources close to the project describe it as a "visually striking and emotionally resonant piece" that "beautifully encapsulated the strength, resilience, and diversity of women." The entry is reported to have incorporated elements symbolizing progress, unity, and the ongoing fight for equal opportunities.
"We are absolutely thrilled and incredibly proud to have won the Purple Icon Contest," stated Dr. Dinah F. Catamco, Dean of FHTM. "This victory is a testament to the creativity and dedication of our entire FHTM community. More importantly, it reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting and uplifting women, not just during National Women's Month, but throughout the year."
The FHTM team reportedly spent weeks conceptualizing, designing, and constructing their winning entry, with students, faculty, and staff collaborating on every stage of the process. This collaborative effort not only fostered a sense of community within the faculty but also served as a hands-on learning experience, encouraging discussions around gender issues and the importance of inclusivity.
"Working on this project was incredibly inspiring," shared Ms. Jearlyn Amandoron, the Student President of Hospitality and Tourism Management Leaders (HTML). "It allowed us to express our thoughts and feelings about women's empowerment tangibly. We wanted to create something that would resonate with people and encourage them to reflect on the vital role women play in society."
The victory in the Purple Icon Contest is not just a win for FHTM but a significant contribution to the broader celebration of National Women's Month. Their winning icon will serve as a powerful symbol of progress and a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to achieve true gender equality.
FHTM plans to showcase their award-winning Purple Icon prominently within their faculty and potentially at other public venues, further amplifying its message and inspiring others to engage in discussions and actions that promote women's empowerment. The faculty is also exploring ways to integrate the themes and lessons learned from the contest into their curriculum and future initiatives.
The success of FHTM in the Purple Icon Contest serves as a shining example of how creative expression can be a powerful tool for social change. Their win not only brings recognition to their faculty but also reinforces the importance of celebrating and supporting women's achievements, paving the way for a more equitable future for all.
