I was born and raised in the small rural community of Avila, Buenavista, Guimaras in the Philippines before moving to Edmonton in 2015. My experience as a Filipino-Canadian has shaped my values and motivations.

There’s a Filipino proverb that resonates deeply with me: “Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay hindi makararating sa paroroonan” (They who does not know how to look back to where they come from will not reach their destination). It reminds me to honor my roots and appreciate the people who have helped me along the way. My grandfather, Lolo Phen, often echoed this teaching. He taught me about kindness, reciprocity, and the roles we all play in society. Communities grow when people actively choose to participate—whether by learning, teaching, giving, or receiving. His wisdom shaped my understanding of how meaningful change happens over time, through collective effort, belief in others, and mutual aid.

 I’m grateful to have had a strong support system that shaped my path. My parents, grandparents, brothers, and family and neighbours in Avila and Guimbal taught me resilience, compassion, and the value of community. Teachers, mentors, fellow volunteers, and friends encouraged my growth, while my colleagues and manager at the Alberta Ombudsman have shown me the importance of integrity and kindness. Each of these relationships has left a mark on who I am today.

 Their guidance and encouragement inspire me to give back. Supporting my hometown’s elementary school and volunteering in Edmonton are ways I honor the lessons I’ve learned—about community, reciprocity, and the importance of lifting others as you move through life. Success is never achieved alone—it’s built on shared effort and the people who walk alongside you. Madamo guid nga salamat sa inyo tanan. Madako gid ang akon nga ginapasalamatan. 

My vision for the future is a world where everyone feels empowered to be an engaged citizen, where people understand their rights and are confident in advocating for themselves. I want to see underrepresented voices not just heard, but truly valued, and a society where young people are part of the conversations that impact them.

The work I do now—creating spaces for people to safely talk about difficult issues—feeds into this vision. I want to keep building programs and events where people feel heard, supported, and energized to make a difference. I hope to help individuals grow in their ability to advocate for themselves and others and to find strength in community.

I dream of a future where we have an active, engaged citizenry, and where everyone has a place in our institutions. When we all participate, our communities and systems stay strong and resilient. I’ll know my work has made a difference if I see more people, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, stepping up, speaking out, and creating change in the world around them.