Two powerhouse Filipinas from NYMA made waves at the prestigious 22nd Annual International Business Awards® (IBAs): digital creator Abi Marquez, one of NYMA’s remarkable talents, and Kat Bautista, the agency’s visionary Chief Operating Officer. Their wins shine a global spotlight on Filipino creativity, innovation, and leadership.
The International Business Awards are the world’s premier business awards program. All individuals and organizations worldwide – public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small – are eligible to submit nominations. The 2025 IBAs received nominations from organizations and individuals in 78 nations and territories.
Winners will be celebrated during a gala banquet at the Corinthia Hotel in Lisbon, Portugal on Friday, 10 October, 2025.
Abi Marquez: Gold Stevie® Winner for Most Innovative Content Creator of the Year
In a historic win, Abi Marquez, widely known as the “Lumpia Queen,” is the first-ever and sole winner in the newly introduced Most Innovative Content Creator of the Year category at the International Business Awards. Introduced in 2025, this category honors creators who have redefined digital engagement and storytelling through social media.
Abi’s genre-defining culinary content, highlighting Filipino cuisine through engaging, inventive, and culturally rich storytelling, has earned her over 10 million followers across platforms. Her global influence has also been recognized with honors, including the Webby People’s Voice Award, Forbes Asia 30 Under 30, and Cannes WIBA Food Creator of the Year.
Judges praised Abi’s trailblazing approach:
“Outstanding content, unique delivery, and standout collaborations — totally deserving of the top spot.”
“Abi Marquez presents a compelling case as a cultural ambassador and content creator... Her ability to merge storytelling, culinary tradition, and social media is impressive.”
“A cultural force who’s turning lumpia into a global icon.”
Kat Bautista: Silver Stevie® Winner for Best Female Entrepreneur
Kat Bautista made history at the 2025 International Business Awards, becoming the first Filipina entrepreneur to win a Silver in the newly introduced Best Female Entrepreneur category. This recognition celebrates her bold leadership, entrepreneurial vision, and values-driven impact and adds to the growing list of global honors Filipinas have earned across different Stevie® Award programs.
A Silicon Valley-trained tech strategist, Kat was honored for guiding NYMA through a pivotal buyout, repaying critical loans within just 10 months, achieving sustainable profitability while prioritizing team well-being, and scaling the business with Filipino creativity at its core. Her pioneering “tradigital” approach, blending digital innovation with traditional cultural values, has positioned NYMA as one of the Philippines’ most inclusive and dynamic talent agencies.
Judges lauded Kat’s bold leadership:
“Kat Bautista embodies entrepreneurial heroism… You haven’t just built a business—you’ve forged a legacy of audacious compassion.”
“An inspiring nomination that captures the rare combination of personal courage, business acumen, and social purpose. Kat’s decision to reinvest in NYMA during a crisis—and not only turn it around but make it profitable while uplifting others—is exceptional.”
“Congratulations on taking the risk and backing yourself to purchase your business. Your growth, quick loan repayment, and support for others is impressive. It’s clear you’ve carved out a unique space in a crowded market. Well done.”
Abi Marquez and Kat Bautista’s wins are proof that Filipino talent and passion shine on the world stage. Their hard work and big hearts inspire everyone at NYMA—and beyond. With leaders like them blazing the trail, there’s no doubt the future is bright for Filipino creators and entrepreneurs.
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