Stevie Award Winners Kat Bautista and Abi Marquez Discuss Cultural Diplomacy with Ambassador Cortes
Lisbon, 10 October 2025 – The Philippine Embassy warmly welcomed Kat Bautista, founder of Now You Must Aspire (NYMA), and popular Filipino influencer Abi Marquez during a courtesy call with Ambassador Paul Raymund P. Cortes on 10 October 2025. The visit celebrated their recent recognition at the Stevie International Business Awards (IBA). Kat Bautista was honored as Best Female Entrepreneur, while Abi Marquez won the Gold Stevie IBA for Most Innovative Content Creator of the Year, becoming the first Filipina and the sole winner in her category.
During the meeting, both sides highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy and explored how the Philippine government could support the export of culture, including the country’s growing creative industries. Bautista shared that she founded NYMA to develop talent with a focus on promoting Philippine culture globally, measuring success by meaningful impact rather than fame. Marquez, known for her engaging content and popularizing Filipino culinary traditions like lumpia, exemplifies how creative work can elevate Philippine culture on the international stage.
NYMA’s talent development centers on amplifying Filipino stories, values, and artistry to the global stage. Its roster of talents across diverse creative disciplines reflects a sustained commitment to championing Filipino excellence worldwide. Ambassador Cortes expressed pride in the achievements of both Bautista and Marquez and reaffirmed the Embassy’s support for initiatives that strengthen the Philippines’ cultural presence internationally while promoting the country’s creative industries as a driver of economic growth.
The Stevie Awards recognize outstanding achievements in the global business community, honoring individuals and organizations for innovation, leadership, and impact. The awards received by Bautista and Marquez highlight the international recognition of Filipino talent and underscore the potential of the country’s creative industries to make a meaningful mark on the world stage. END