I consider myself someone with an above-average bust size, but even with similar physical traits, every woman’s experience is different.

My sister and I were the first in our family to have this body type, yet her struggles have always been more intense than mine.

During the topic proposal period for research, I wanted a subject that was unique and rarely discussed.

One day, while in the car to my mom’s photoshoot, I asked my family what topics they were considering. My sister casually mentioned a business idea about offering inclusive bra sizes.

It felt like a spark. That became the only topic I proposed, and surprisingly, it got approved.

When it came time to interview my sister, I didn’t anticipate how emotional it would be.

Sitting across from her, asking questions I’d never asked before, I realized the depth of her experiences. We framed it like a documentary interview, and she began:

“Hello, my name is Alexah. I am a 19-year-old college student pursuing Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship. I’m drawn to projects that merge purpose and profit, businesses that make a positive difference while remaining financially sustainable.

"My dream is to start a company that addresses challenges women face, especially those often overlooked by mainstream industries.”

From a young age, Alexah loved reading about women’s health, empowerment, and business innovation. Stories of female entrepreneurs who turned personal struggles into opportunities inspired her.

She realized meaningful business ideas often come from lived experiences, and hers was no exception.

“Since childhood,” she said, “I’ve dealt with having a larger bust size in a country where that body type is uncommon.”

Growing up in the Philippines, she often felt out of place. While others found clothes and bras that fit, she faced discomfort, limited choices, and unwanted attention.

People rarely realize that having a big bust at a young age brings both physical pain and emotional challenges, it shapes how people perceive you, how you move, and how you see yourself.

She recalled starting training bras at eight years old, reaching a B cup in sixth grade, and eventually a 40D in college. Along the way came stares, comments, and insecurities.

“No matter how modest my clothes were,” she said, “they were often labeled ‘too revealing.’ I had to hide behind oversized garments just to avoid judgment.

"Society often sexualizes larger breasts, which makes it harder to feel comfortable in my own skin.”

Beyond social pressure, there were physical struggles such as back pain, shoulder strain, and constant discomfort. Even everyday choices like what bag to carry required extra thought.

These experiences shaped her personality, making her more cautious and self-conscious.

Then came the practical frustration: finding bras that actually fit. Local stores mostly carried standard sizes, while imported brands were expensive.

Affordable options lacked quality and support. “Walking into a store and realizing nothing fits, it’s a kind of disappointment that chips away at confidence,” she explained.

As she matured, my sister realized her struggle wasn’t just personal, it reflected a systemic gap in the fashion industry. Many women are left out due to the lack of inclusivity in clothing and undergarments.

That realization became the seed of her entrepreneurial dream, she said, “ I want to create a brand that celebrates women of all shapes and sizes, offering comfort, quality, and confidence at an accessible price.

“I want my brand to be more than just a store,” she said. “It should be a safe space where women feel seen and valued. I imagine using sustainable materials, inclusive marketing, and programs that promote self-love and awareness.”

Her journey deepened when she was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)—a hormonal condition that affected her body and confidence.

It highlighted the link between health, self-image, and empowerment. “Women’s health should be discussed openly,” she said. “Beauty and confidence start with understanding your body.”

If she could advocate for something today, it would be accessible, affordable, and well-fitting lingerie for plus-size and large-busted women.

What seems minor is deeply personal, it affects dignity, self-image, and equality.

“Inclusion isn’t just about fashion; it’s about comfort, respect, and self-worth.”

What moved me most was when she said, “I never thought my sister, Sofhia, would listen and turn my story into research.”

Sharing her truth felt liberating, and it reminded me how storytelling can spark understanding and action.

To every woman who has felt uncomfortable, underestimated, or left out because of her body, we see you. You are more than society’s standards.

True confidence comes not from fitting in but from embracing who you are.

My sister left an impactful message saying, “My goal isn’t just to start a business, it’s to start a movement.

I want to merge entrepreneurship with empathy to create real change. My struggles have become my purpose: to help women feel seen, supported, and confident in their own skin.”

Her story taught me that challenges can transform into sources of strength. What once caused discomfort now fuels passion.

Through that passion, we learned that business, at its best, isn’t just about profit, it’s about purpose, compassion, and impact.