By: Ashley White
As Filipino American History Month unfolds this October, it’s essential to recognize the remarkable contributions of Filipino Americans in various industries, particularly technology. Filipino women, in particular, have made significant strides, blending their heritage and leadership skills to influence change in dynamic sectors. According to a study by the U.S. Census Bureau, Filipino Americans are the third largest Asian-American group in the United States, with a strong presence in various industries, including healthcare, education, and, increasingly, technology.
In the world of tech, representation matters more than ever, especially as the industry grapples with diversity challenges. Filipino Americans, particularly women, are making an impact in an area often dominated by male counterparts. One such leader is Leslie Keeler Saglio, a thought leader in emotional intelligence and feminine leadership, who is using her platform to inspire others in technology and leadership roles.
Saglio, an internationally recognized keynote speaker and master coach, was recently announced as one of the Master of Ceremonies for the AI Summit Stage at Web Summit 2024, one of the world’s prominent tech gatherings. Often referred to as the “Olympics of tech,” Web Summit will bring together over 70,000 attendees from 160 countries, including some of the disruptive startups, influential investors, and world-leading corporations.
In a powerful statement about representation, Saglio said, “As Filipino American History Month unfolds this October, I proudly stand as a second-generation Filipino American woman influencing the future of technology and highlighting the importance of representation.”
Her presence on such a grand stage marks a pivotal moment, not only for her career but for the representation of Filipino Americans in the tech world.
Emotional Intelligence Meets AI
At the heart of Saglio’s message is the need to incorporate emotional intelligence into leadership strategies, particularly as technology advances at an unprecedented rate. AI is transforming every industry, from automating tasks to revolutionizing communication. Yet, as AI continues to push boundaries, ethical concerns such as bias, privacy, and the future of work emerge.
“AI is transforming every aspect of our lives, from how we work to how we connect with one another,” Saglio explained. “But as we push the boundaries of what technology can do, it’s crucial to keep humanity at the heart of innovation. That’s the message I’m excited to bring to Web Summit’s AI Summit Stage.”
Her message comes at a crucial time. According to Forbes, AI is expected to generate $190 billion in business value by 2025, with companies across industries investing in AI-driven solutions. However, alongside this rapid growth, there is increasing recognition of the importance of balancing technical innovation with emotional intelligence and human-centered leadership. As the industry addresses the potential of AI to reshape society, Saglio’s expertise on the human element of leadership brings a vital perspective to the conversation.
Breaking Barriers in Leadership
Saglio’s journey from Los Angeles to the global stage is a testament to resilience, diversity, and leadership. With nearly two decades of experience across various industries—ranging from corporate Hollywood to entrepreneurship—she has earned a reputation for her human-centered leadership approach. Her expertise in emotional intelligence and feminine leadership is especially relevant in today’s tech-driven world, where leadership is no longer just about results but also about empathy, inclusion, and connection.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, with experience living in London and Barcelona, Saglio’s multicultural background gives her the unique ability to connect with diverse audiences. “This isn’t just about technology; it’s about shaping the future of humanity,” she emphasizes.
Her role at Web Summit 2024 reflects the growing need for diverse voices in the tech industry. Saglio’s participation symbolizes the importance of representation and breaking barriers for women and underrepresented communities.
As Saglio herself stated, “Representation matters. I hope that by seeing someone who looks like me, other women and people from underrepresented communities will be inspired to pursue their passions and create meaningful change in the world.”
The Role of Women in Tech Leadership
As the tech industry continues to evolve, the role of women in leadership positions becomes increasingly critical. Women like Saglio are stepping into roles that highlight not only their expertise but also their ability to inspire change in industries that have traditionally lacked diversity.
Her participation in Web Summit 2024 is particularly significant as it highlights the intersection of technology and leadership.
As a certified master coach and TEDx speaker, Saglio has empowered women leaders and organizations around the world, sharing her knowledge with globally recognized brands like Apple, the University of Southern California, and Soho House. Her work, which integrates emotional intelligence and leadership, has been featured in Entrepreneur Magazine, ABC, NBC, CBS, Daily Om and Well+Good, among others.
She has also been named a “Top 15 Coach” in Barcelona.
The tech industry continues to face challenges around diversity, equity, and inclusion. Yet, leaders like Saglio offer a path forward, ensuring that innovation isn’t just about technology but also about fostering an inclusive environment where diverse voices are heard.
As more women enter the tech space, particularly in leadership roles, they bring new perspectives that are critical for driving ethical and sustainable innovation.
A Bright Future for Women in Tech
Saglio’s journey is a testament to the growing influence of women, particularly Filipino Americans, in shaping the future of technology. As the world continues to embrace AI and other groundbreaking technologies, leaders like Saglio ensure that emotional intelligence and human-centered leadership remain at the forefront.
With her role at Web Summit 2024, Saglio stands as an inspiration for other women, particularly those from underrepresented communities, to step into leadership roles, influence the future of tech, and drive meaningful change.
Published by: Khy Talara
