Karen Davila: Woman of Conviction
MANILA, Philippines - While other women were still basking in post-Valentine glow, Karen Davila was busy preparing her speech for the Harvard conference that took place late February. She was invited to be the final speaker for the Social Policy Workshop on Gender Equality for Women in Asia.
Karen shares, “Of their 19 years, it’s only the second year Harvard University is hosting it, and I felt so privileged to be able to speak to delegates from all over the world, whom I know one day, will be the world’s decision makers. It was the first time they’ve ever invited a Filipino speaker for that particular conference, and first time from the media as well. I think it helps for an effective presentation when you’re able to see the problems of women, on video — a lot were amazed at how free and extensive our media is in covering issues, considering there’s not as much freedom with our Asian neighbors.”
One would think that being invited to this prestigious event would be one of the highlights of the TOYM awardee. When asked about her thoughts on happiness, Karen says, “Happiness and the state of feeling complete vary from one person to the other. I think, most of us can feel it once we learn how to be content. That’s a very godly quality, unfortunately, (it’s) not easy to develop it; (it) takes prayer, meditation and being grateful every single day.”
Certainly, her years in the industry has honed her skills and contributed to further solidifying her resolve. But on top of this, this brilliant mother of two has this to share, “Well, I think I’ve grown in the last few years. I’m 38 and more comfortable in my own skin. I don’t think the public will really ever know every single facet of ourselves and that’s okay — I’m a broadcast journalist, my job is to tell the story, to educate, to inform. If I do that well, and people learn and feel connected, then that’s the best judge of who I am.”
Of all the challenges in her life, having children probably ranks highest among Karen’s list of life-changing moments. Being a mom is a role that she loves best. “Mothering gets easy in time I have to say. I’m a working mother, so I balance my time between family and work. Motherhood has softened me, changed me and humbled me. It’s my ultimate joy. Children are just — wow! My kids just bring out so much love, lambing and happiness in me.”
Karen continues, “I’m a mother first — and everything else follows. Of course, there’s no prioritizing on being a kind, decent and loving human being. In any role we play in our lives, I believe, we should practice that each and every time.”
This firm belief has led her to support several causes. Closest to her heart is the NGO World Vision. “I really support World Vision,” she states emphatically. “I believe that education is the key in giving children the best chance at life. The organization sends Filipino kids to school for only P600, it’s different depending on what part of the world you live in of course, but I’ve seen lives change because of the hope World Vision has given. We’re involved in transforming lives, we’re community based and walk with the family every step of the way.”
Surely, one of the most successful women on national TV, Karen looks upon several women as her heroines. She shares, “My heroines are my mother, for her strength during adversity, and faith in God. My sister, for her beauty and passion for hard work. Oprah, for crossing boundaries and using television for good. Angelina Jolie, for reinventing herself and breaking stereotypes. Barack Obama for living out what was once deemed as impossible, running for president and winning. And you know, lawyer Persida Acosta of the public attorney’s office here in the Philippines — for taking on the unpopular task of defending the poor and showing such sheer determination in getting the job done. Cheche Lazaro for her grace and humility.”
