Meet Ivy: Creative Nomad, Coach, and Builder of Dreams
IN RETROSPECT
I probably should have known that the girl who would spend hours crafting DIY flowers and cutting Manila paper designs to earn a few extra pesos in high school would one day become a business owner...
That the teenager who sold crops from her father’s farm in a small town in Albay to fund her school supplies would grow up to mentor others on building their own careers...
That the young woman who commuted five hours a day to attend college, only to pause her studies to support her family, would eventually create businesses that support not just herself but also a growing community.
Looking back now, it all makes sense—the determination, the creativity, the relentless drive to find solutions even in the face of challenges. It wasn’t just survival; it was the spark of entrepreneurship, the heart of a dreamer who knew deep down that her life could be more.
Today, that same girl has traveled solo across Asia, built a thriving freelancing career from scratch, and created a space for others to do the same. And while the journey hasn’t been without setbacks, every step has been worth it.
I guess I should have known—I’ve been showing up for my dreams all along.
You Might Have Seen Me On
I believe that thriving in today’s world requires showing up as your full, authentic self. It means bringing your unique gifts, personality, humor, and, most importantly, your heart to every space you enter.
Whether you’re running your own business or pursuing a passion project, embracing a creative and entrepreneurial mindset is essential to growing fully and experiencing the fulfillment you deserve.
No matter the size of your dreams or the weight of your obstacles, you hold the power to transform your life. And in doing so, you create a ripple effect that inspires change in the world around you.
Ivy Manilag is a creative powerhouse, trailblazer, and multi-passionate entrepreneur who’s redefining what it means to build a life on your own terms. As the founder of The Creative Nomad PH, she’s on a mission to help dreamers and doers navigate the digital world, build thriving ventures, and live their most fulfilling lives.
The first in her family to ditch the 9-to-5 grind, Ivy broke the mold by choosing passion over tradition. While carrying the weight of being a breadwinner, she’s proven that chasing your dreams and supporting your loved ones can go hand in hand.
With over four years as a Sales & Marketing Manager for a UK cybersecurity firm, Ivy blends corporate know-how with creative genius. She’s built multiple ventures, including ZERA, a floral and events business, and a buzzing social media management studio serving global brands.
Ivy has worked with TEDx, an independently organized program of the globally renowned TED Talks, serving as both Marketing Staff and Creative Director in the Philippines, where she amplified ideas worth spreading through impactful storytelling and design.
But Ivy doesn’t stop there. She’s a solo traveler who’s explored 8 countries, a singer-songwriter who creates music from the heart, and a podcast host who shares stories that inspire. Whether she’s mentoring aspiring freelancers, leading workshops, or simply showing up, Ivy’s all about empowering others to take that first leap and build a life they’re proud of.
With her vibrant energy, bold vision, and unstoppable faith, Ivy is the voice you need to hear in the digital nomad, entrepreneurial, and creative spaces.
A Woman of Many Hats
Coach & Mentor: Empowering aspiring freelancers to land their first gig and find their niche.
Event Planner & Designer: Founder of ZERA, providing timeless floral crafts and bespoke event backdrops.
Content Creator & Strategist: Helping brands amplify their stories online.
Speaker & Advocate: Spreading the message of faith, creativity, and resilience on global platforms.
Invite Ivy to speak
When Ivy Manilag takes the stage, she doesn’t just speak — she shows up fully, authentically, and powerfully. As a creative entrepreneur, community builder, and leader in male-dominated fields like cybersecurity, Ivy embodies resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of presence.
Her journey from being labeled "fragile" to becoming a force of growth and leadership is a living testament that anyone can break through barriers with courage, grit, and faith.
Here’s what Ivy brings to your event:
Raw Authenticity: Ivy shares real, unfiltered stories about her humble beginnings, childhood challenges, and career pivots — from BPO jobs to building multiple businesses and leading in cybersecurity. Her vulnerability connects with audiences on a deeply human level.
Inspiring Storytelling: Her message revolves around one powerful idea — “Show Up”. She reveals how being present, even when you feel unprepared, can unlock new possibilities in life, work, and relationships. Her stories aren't just words — they’re a call to action for every listener.
Relatable Lessons: Ivy’s journey is proof that you don’t need a perfect plan to start — just a clear vision, a brave heart, and the willingness to show up. From students and young professionals to seasoned leaders, she leaves every audience with actionable insights on perseverance, leadership, and self-belief.
Multi-Passionate Perspective: As a creative mind, music artist, social media strategist, and startup founder, Ivy brings diverse experiences to the table. Her perspectives are fresh, forward-thinking, and filled with practical takeaways on career growth, creative problem-solving, and showing up even when it's hard.
Global Impact: From leading workshops in the Philippines to coaching international students from Indonesia, Africa, and Malaysia, Ivy’s message transcends borders. Her unique ability to connect with global audiences makes her the ideal speaker for multicultural and diverse events.
Looking for a speaker who will not only inspire but move your audience to take action?
📩 Reach out today to secure Ivy as a speaker for your conference, seminar, or event.
Witness the power of showing up — and give your audience the push they need to do the same.
👉 Email: work@ivymanilag.com
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