Kwentong Mabuhay with Pax Ledina
Social Media Specialist at Mabuhay House Society
1. What motivates you to do this work?
What motivates me to do this work is the opportunity to merge my design and advertising background with a cause that deeply resonates with me. I've always wanted to support non-profits, so when Mabuhay House Society came along, I knew I had to be a part of it. It’s also a personal journey—reconnecting with my Filipino heritage as an immigrant and addressing the diaspora or feeling of not being entirely Filipino or Westernized enough. Ultimately, I want to contribute to something bigger than myself, helping to pioneer the Provincial Filipino Cultural Centre and creating a lasting impact on our community.
2. What has been your most meaningful/memorable experience in the community?
My most meaningful experience in the community has been getting to know the many Filipino organizations that work hand-in-hand to make the dream of a Provincial Filipino Cultural Centre a reality. Seeing the passion and effort these individuals put into uplifting the Filipino-Canadian community is incredibly inspiring and comforting. It gives me hope that the future of our community is bright.
3. Who inspires you as a leader/individual/mother/etc?
The people I’ve met since moving from the Philippines have profoundly inspired me. There’s truth in the saying that distance makes the heart grow fonder. Being away from home has intensified my connection to my roots in ways I never anticipated. It’s as if being an outsider looking in has given me a newfound appreciation for my heritage and culture, allowing me to see it with fresh eyes. This perspective is something I cherish deeply. I feel fortunate to experience my culture from this vantage point, recognizing it as a privilege that not everyone gets to have. It’s this unique blend of distance and closeness that drives me to stay connected, learn more, and contribute to the community in any way I can.
4. If a Filipino youth asked you for advice, what would you say?
If a Filipino youth asked me for advice, I would say: Embrace your heritage and stay curious about your roots. Don't be afraid to ask questions and explore your identity. At the same time, be mindful and aware of the privileges you may have, especially when navigating different cultures. Use your privilege to uplift others and contribute positively to the community. It's important to recognize that sometimes, without realizing it, we can gentrify our own culture. Stay aware of your actions and make sure you're honoring your roots in a way that benefits everyone, not just yourself.
5. What is your biggest dream/hope for the Filipino community?
My biggest dream for the Filipino community is to see the Provincial Cultural Centre become a reality. I want to walk through its doors and feel immense pride knowing I played a role in making it happen. Beyond that, I hope we maintain our hardworking and hospitable spirit. But I also dream of a time when we stop romanticizing our resilience. We’ve endured tough conditions for too long, and while resilience has been our strength, it shouldn’t be our default. Our community deserves better conditions that uplift us, not ones that force us to be resilient just to survive. We should aim for a future that doesn’t require such resilience in the first place—where thriving, not just surviving, is the norm.