Krystal Jugarap is a force in the entrepreneurial world, a visionary who has built not just businesses but thriving communities. As the founder of BOOKofBIJOUX and EM/POWEREDbyWMN, she has carved out a space where women can flourish, support one another, and overcome the obstacles that often hinder their success. Her journey is one of resilience, passion, and a deep-seated belief in the power of women supporting women.
The Birth of BOOKofBIJOUX and EM/POWEREDbyWMN
For Krystal, entrepreneurship was always in her DNA. From a young age, she was drawn to opportunities that aligned with her creativity, leadership, and love for community. Whether designing closets, merchandising fashion, or organizing events for non-profits, she was unknowingly gathering the skills that would later fuel her business ventures.
The defining moment came in 2018 when she became a first-time mother. Like many women navigating the life-altering experience of motherhood, Krystal sought an outlet to rediscover herself. She found solace in creative projects for her daughter and, in the process, stumbled upon a problem many jewelry lovers face—lack of efficient storage. What started as a simple DIY project quickly evolved into a business idea, leading to the birth of BOOKofBIJOUX, a unique and stylish jewelry storage solution.
As Krystal embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, she longed for the camaraderie and support she had experienced as a stylist. This inspired her to create EM/POWEREDbyWMN, a platform designed to provide women entrepreneurs with the community, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed. What began as a vision has now grown into a thriving ecosystem of women uplifting one another.
Breaking Barriers for Women Entrepreneurs
One of the biggest challenges Krystal sees among women entrepreneurs is the feeling of isolation. Many women navigate the business world alone, unsure of where to find support. Additionally, accessibility remains a significant hurdle. While many organizations claim to support small businesses, their price points often exclude those just starting.
EM/POWEREDbyWMN was built to break these barriers. Through a community-centered approach, women are given the opportunity to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. The platform’s affordability ensures that financial constraints do not become another obstacle. Perhaps most importantly, it fosters an environment where women feel seen, heard, and capable of achieving their dreams.
The mindset work is equally crucial. Imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and fear of judgment often prevent women from taking the necessary steps toward success. By surrounding themselves with a network of like-minded individuals, they gain the confidence to move forward. Seeing another woman overcome similar struggles serves as a powerful reminder that they, too, can succeed.
The Power of Community and Collaboration
Krystal’s vision for EM/POWEREDbyWMN extends far beyond networking. It has blossomed into a movement, hosting vendor fairs, networking events, and an annual summit that brings women together in meaningful ways. The most rewarding part for Krystal? The relationships that have formed within this space.
Women in the community are not just building businesses; they are forging lifelong friendships, collaborating on new ventures, and lifting each other up in ways that extend beyond professional pursuits. The support is tangible, the encouragement unwavering. It is a testament to what happens when women choose to empower rather than compete.
Amplifying Women-Owned Businesses
One of Krystal’s most impactful initiatives is the Woman-Owned Small Business Directory, which now features over 80 brands. More than just a tool for discovering women-owned businesses, the directory serves as a symbol of representation and inclusivity. Entrepreneurs can proudly showcase their cultural backgrounds and brand heritage, reinforcing the importance of diversity in the business world.
The directory allows users to search for businesses based on ownership categories, including Filipina-owned, LGBTQIA+-owned, and mom-owned. If a category does not yet exist, it can be created, ensuring that every woman entrepreneur has a space where she belongs. This initiative goes beyond selling products—it tells the stories of the women behind them, giving their work deeper meaning and impact.
Krystal envisions the directory becoming the go-to resource for discovering and supporting women-owned brands on a global scale. With every new addition, the platform strengthens its mission of amplifying female entrepreneurs and creating opportunities for growth.
Using Her Voice for Change
As an international award-winning speaker and writer, Krystal understands the power of storytelling. Early in her entrepreneurial journey, she made a pivotal decision to lead with transparency. When she faced manufacturing complications with BOOKofBIJOUX, she shared her struggles openly with her audience. The response was overwhelming—rather than judgment, she was met with support, encouragement, and a sense of shared experience.
This realization reinforced her commitment to authenticity. Through the EM/POWEREDbyWMN podcast, she has interviewed countless founders, uncovering the challenges and triumphs of their journeys. Her willingness to be vulnerable has forged deep connections, opening doors to collaborations, interviews, and speaking engagements.
Krystal now dedicates herself to helping other women find their voices. Her core message is simple yet powerful: women are not only capable but deserving of success. Sometimes, they just need a reminder—and she is more than happy to be that voice of encouragement.
Balancing Entrepreneurship and Motherhood
With three children and two thriving businesses, Krystal knows firsthand the challenges of balancing entrepreneurship and family life. Her secret? Grace and perspective.
She acknowledges that there is no single path to success. It requires sacrifices, but those sacrifices should be intentional and aligned with personal values. For Krystal, prioritizing family means recognizing that taking a step back can be just as valuable as pushing forward. Rest and reflection are not weaknesses; they are essential components of sustainable success.
She also embraces the idea that she cannot be everything to everyone at all times. Instead of succumbing to guilt, she focuses on the bigger picture—demonstrating to her children the power of dreaming big, taking up space, and creating meaningful impact.
Advice for Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs
For women just beginning their entrepreneurial journeys, Krystal’s message is clear: keep going. Self-doubt is inevitable, but it does not have to be a roadblock. The difference between success and stagnation lies in the willingness to take action despite fear.
She encourages women to surround themselves with supportive communities, seek mentorship, and lean into their authenticity. Success is not about luck—it is about commitment, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in one’s worth.
Through BOOKofBIJOUX and EM/POWEREDbyWMN, Krystal Jugarap is not just building businesses; she is reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape for women everywhere. By fostering community, amplifying voices, and leading with authenticity, she is proving that when women uplift one another, there are no limits to what they can achieve.
Photo Credit: CeeCee Weaver, Pink Salt Photos
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