Photos from the team behind Happy Girls Club Davao
Ever find yourself wondering where to meet like-minded people, explore a hobby, or just have a moment of peace in a fast-paced city? If you’re new to Davao or simply looking for a deeper sense of community, you might be surprised by the number of women-led and women-friendly circles blossoming right in the heart of the city.
From intentional gatherings to tea rituals, bookish escapes, and mindful journaling, Davao is home to a growing number of spaces where women, and anyone who resonates with their values, can express themselves, slow down, and connect.
These groups are not exclusive to women, but they do offer safe, nurturing environments built on the vision of women who want more than just surface-level interactions.
Here’s a look at some of the city’s women-led communities:
Feminine Spark Studios
Photos from Loreen Buenavista of Feminine Spark Studios
For women who crave intention, creativity, and connection
Founded by Loreen Buenavista, Feminine Spark Studios is more than just a community. It’s a sanctuary for mindful, intentional women embracing their feminine energy. Loreen envisioned a soft place to land, where women could shed-off their daily stress and reconnect with their inner child, creativity, and vulnerability.
Through workshops, soulful gatherings, and fun-centered events, the group brings together women who are eager to grow and express themselves in a safe space. Their next event? A Skincare Workshop happening on Saturday, September 27, from 3 to 6 PM at Green Bread Café, where participants will be guided by a licensed skincare coach and doctor.
Loreen’s mission is clear: help women become the best versions of themselves, not just through fun events, but through intentional growth and deep connection.
Photos from Loreen Buenavista of Feminine Spark Studios
Tsa Tsaa Davao
Photos from Issa Delima of Tsa Tsaa
Tea lovers, this one’s for you
Founded by tea hobbyist Issa Delima, Tsa Tsaa is a calm, cozy escape for tea enthusiasts and anyone needing a moment to breathe. Inspired by her father’s use of herbal teas as natural remedies during her childhood, Issa’s tea journey evolved into a passion project that bridges tradition and modern ritual.
With a background in barista work and a deep love for tea brewing, Issa began hosting quiet gatherings at home, eventually turning her hobby into a weekend tea club. Now, through her online posts and pop-up events, she invites others to sip slowly, connect mindfully, and explore the world of tea, one leaf at a time.
Photos from Issa Delima of Tsa Tsaa
OK to BE
Photos from KB Meniado of OK to BE, Bibi Mangki Bookbed, & Silent Book Club Davao
For those who love to journal, craft, write, and pursue creative projects for expression and reflection
Launched by writer and editor KB Meniado, OK to BE is a community where people can explore art and stories through different creative ways, such as zine making, journaling, writing, crafting, and more. With sessions both online and in person, this club offers a gentle space for people to write, craft, doodle, and reflect—free from judgment and full of possibility.
Hosted usually at local spaces such as Bibi Mangki Bookbed, Humble Table, Ma, &Matcha, and p l a n . B, these sessions often include how-to guides, creative activities, and sharing time, to help participants channel their inner worlds, connect, and collaborate. For the creatives or those curious to start, OK to BE is a welcoming community to explore your creativity.
Bibi Mangki Bookbed (BMB)
Photos from KB Meniado of OK to BE, Bibi Mangki Bookbed, & Silent Book Club Davao
For bookworms, creatives, and curious minds
Tucked in the quiet corners of Davao’s literary scene, Bibi Mangki Bookbed (BMB) is a cozy, collaborative space brought to life by Bookbed (founded by KB Meniado) and reading advocate Bibi Mangki, also known as #thereadingmonkey.
With a curated library of over 1,000 books in rotation, including rare Filipino titles, Southeast Asian literature, and indie publications, BMB is a haven for readers, writers, and daydreamers alike. More than just a book nook, BMB regularly hosts small, creativity-fueled sessions from journaling circles and zine-making to sign language classes and comic workshops.
Every gathering is designed to inspire connection, expression, and imagination in a welcoming, reader-friendly environment.
Whether you’re looking to get lost in a story, create your own, or simply be in the company of fellow book lovers, BMB is one space worth joining.
Silent Book Club Davao
Photos from SM Lanang and KB Meniado of OK to BE, Bibi Mangki Bookbed, & Silent Book Club Davao
For all kinds of readers
An official chapter of Silent Book Club in the US, Silent Book Club Davao is exactly what it sounds like. An introvert-friendly, no-pressure book club where people gather, read their own books in silence, and then (optionally) share their thoughts.
Led by KB Meniado, this non-traditional book club provides a space for book lovers to simply exist together, enjoy literature, and connect through stories. So, even if you’re reading through a thriller or slowly savoring poetry, this is the place for quiet companionship.
Exciting upcoming sessions are scheduled for October 11th, 12th, and 18th. Be sure to mark these dates on your calendar and stay tuned for further updates via their social media @silentbookclubdavao to secure your spot!
Hulma Pottery Studio
Photos from Jam Rosal of Hulma Pottery Studio
For the creative girls who want to get their hands dirty (in the best way)
Hulma Pottery Studio is a warm and inviting space where art meets mindfulness. Founded by UP Dilliman fine arts graduate Jam Rosal, what began as a simple college elective soon grew into a passion molded into a community-centered studio.
From mug making and hand-building to wheel throwing, Hulma offers weekly classes (Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays) that welcome both beginners and seasoned creatives. Located at 121 University Avenue, Juna Subdivision, Davao City, the studio also accepts commissions and personalized pieces, perfect for gifts molded with love.
More than just a workshop, Hulma is an avenue to educate, train, and cultivate artistry while building a vibrant community of makers in Davao. It’s an open, inclusive space for anyone curious to try something new, slow down, and discover the therapeutic joy of working with clay.
Find them on Instagram @hulmapottery or Facebook: HULMA Pottery Studio to book a class or connect with their growing circle of creatives.
Photos from Jam Rosal of Hulma Pottery Studio
Happy Girls Club
Photos from the team behind Happy Girls Club Davao
For the girls needing a heartfelt space to embrace their true selves
The Happy Girls Club is an empowering haven where women of all ages and backgrounds come together to unapologetically embrace who they are, while finding joy and connection through fun and meaningful activities. Think of dancing the night away, gathering in intimate circles, hiking through nature, or sharing stories over yoga or meditation—this community offers a vibrant, inclusive environment for women to simply be themselves.
At the heart of the Happy Girls Club lies a mission to cultivate positivity, self-love, and acceptance. It’s a place where women can let their guard down, feel seen and supported, and engage in a variety of experiences designed to nurture their inner selves. From lighthearted celebrations to deep group discussions, the club creates opportunities for women to connect in ways that feel authentic and healing.
Photos from the team behind Happy Girls Club Davao
This space is open to women and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, offering a safe, judgment-free environment where everyone can be themselves freely. Through many activities that allow true expression which includes either dance, spoken word, or just being present, think of it as a home you’re coming home to and they’re always celebrating you!
This October, the Happy Girls Club (@happygirlsclub.dvo) also invites you to join their upcoming gatherings! Own Your Stride: Halloween Edition on October 5 along the Coastal Road, and Divine Disco 2 on October 18 at Habits. These events aren’t just about running or dancing; they’re about celebrating self-expression, building connections, and embracing the joy of community in a safe and supportive space.
The Happy Girls Club is more than just a group; it’s a sisterhood– a family even. Supporting each member through life’s ups and downs, and providing a foundation for growth, empowerment, and authentic connection. If you’re seeking a place where you can truly be yourself, surrounded by love and support, this is the community for you.
Photos from the team behind Happy Girls Club Davao
Ready to Find Your Circle?
Whether you’re seeking a sense of belonging, a space to be still, or a spark of creativity, these Davao-based communities are a great starting point. Most importantly, they’re open to anyone who shares their values, regardless of gender, though they proudly center women’s voices and leadership.
So go ahead, try something new. Your circle might just be one gathering, one cup of tea, one journal entry, one silent page, or one clay creation away.
