Breaking barriers, building community: The women behind Leading Ladies

Working non-stop for over two decades and experiencing an unexpected slowdown during the 2020 lockdown, Cat Ilacad, founder and CEO of Posh Nails Inc., and Rachelle Stern, CEO of Alphabet soup Inc., found themselves reflecting deeply and engaging in meaningful conversations.

- By JANE KINGSU-CHENG

"During a late-night call, as we washed away our anxieties, Rachelle and I found ourselves talking about what else we could do. I told her how, when I was starting Posh Nails, I wished I had a small group of people to talk to — a place to share suppliers, business ideas, and simply rant about the challenges that business owners face. I never managed to form that group. She also felt the same way," shares Cat on how the community group Leading Ladies was founded in 2021.

"At a time when many women were feeling isolated, struggling to launch new ventures, or simply in need of a supportive ear during challenging times, we created this space. Leading Ladies is all about fostering an empowering community where women can connect, share experiences, and support each other's growth—both personally and professionally," adds Rachelle.

Manila Bulletin sat down with Cat and Rachelle as they shared their journey as co-founders of Leading Ladies and how their vision continues to empower women.

The collaborator

Cat Ilacad founded Posh Nails, Inc., a nail salon, beauty, and wellness business, in 2002. Today, the company boasts 35 branches nationwide and offers franchise opportunities to loyal clients who have come to love the salon.

Over the years, Cat has worked closely with many women who face the same challenges of balancing work and personal life while striving to break free from societal expectations. “But I’ve also seen the power of resilience, collaboration, and mentorship. When women support each other, success comes faster and feels more meaningful,” she says.