Toronto, Canada. — Kababayan Multicultural Centre (KMC) celebrated its Annual General Meeting on the festivity of 47-anniversary offering services for newcomers and immigrants. The event highlighted the organization’s accomplishments from the past year, set the course for future growth and impact, and introduced four new Board Directors for 2024-2025: Leny Rose Simbre, John Segui, Tyson Dimayuga, and Amanda Singh.
2024 Kababayan Multicultural Centre staff, together with newly appointed Board members.
Ben Corpuz, Chairperson of Kababayan, delivered the welcoming remark. He expressed that on the organization's 47th anniversary, he feels incredibly proud of what the organization has accomplished, serving and empowering the community members of newcomers and immigrants to have a better life in Canada.
Ben Corpuz, Chairman of Kababayan, delivering the welcoming remarks.
Executive Director Rizza Solis explains that she came into KMC with a clear vision: to lead this organization forward, adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of immigration and settlement while ensuring that we remain resilient in the face of challenges.
Rizza Solis, Kababayan's Executive Director, presenting the organization's milestones and plans.
“For the next fiscal year, our organization is committed to expanding the programs and making great connections for the benefit of our clients. We are building an organization that is stronger, more adaptable, and more equipped to serve our community”, Solis remarked.
Arif Virani, Minister of Justice, delivering a speech to the members of Kababayan.
During the activity, Arif Virani, Minister of Justice, said that he had seen all the work that Kababayan has been doing for the Filipinos and all communities across Toronto and all the innovation that now has Kababayan, using the technology to benefit more newcomers and immigrants.
Similarly, Bhutila Karpoche, a member of the provincial parliament for Parkdale High Park, indicates that Kababayan has 47 years of contribution, service and dedication, and the organization represents an integral part of the communities.
Bhutila Karpoche, Member of Provincial Parliament for Parkdale High Park, sharing her insights and addressing the Kababayan community.
“Kababayan has provided support and resources to people in the most critical moments in this country. I am sure that when people receive help in those crucial moments, they will not forget, which is the value of Kababayan”, Karpoche highlighted.
In the same way, Kerwin Tate, Philippine Deputy Consul, indicates that since the moment Kababayan was established to advocate for Filipino workers in Canada and to promote Filipino culture, KMC has been a great support to the community and now to other nationalities, and for that reason, he wishes all the best in the future.
Kerwin Tate, Philippine Deputy Consul, delivering his speech of gratitude for Kababayan's support to the community.
Annual Report
Upon presenting the annual report, Ben Corpuz reported that on February 13, Kababayan received an $18,438 grant from Employment and Social Development Canada through the New Horizons Seniors Program. That grant will fund the "Seniors Leading Change: Fostering Inclusion for Newcomer and Racialized Seniors" project in the coming fiscal year.
On the other hand, Rizza Solis described that during the fiscal year 2023-2024, Kababayan delivered 10,460 services in settlement, employment, youth, seniors, and women support programs, representing a 20% increase compared to the last fiscal year. We provide a wide range of services.
“We supported 3,416 total individuals this year through personalized needs assessments, referrals, and counselling; we empowered newcomers and immigrants on their journey”, Solis reported.
Moreover, 127 group sessions were delivered, and Kababayan’s team facilitated a broad range of group sessions, including information sessions, skill-building workshops, and community connection activities. Also, 2,752 total group session participants, including clients and community members, joined us to gain knowledge, build skills, foster connections, and enhance their overall well-being through our group sessions.
For an in-depth look at our achievements and impact, read our 2023-2024 Annual Report by clicking here.
Rizza indicates that one exciting development for the following months is the planned renovation of KMC’s office space, allowing the organization to offer even better services to its clients.
Board and Volunteer Recognition
The event also honoured Ana Labasug, a member of the Board of Directors who has volunteered at Kababayan for 16 years since 2008. She has always supported KMC’s projects and attended events. She received a certification and a recognition plaque.
Ana Labasug (center), a Board member and 16-year volunteer at Kababayan, receiving the Volunteer of the Year award and a plaque of recognition, with Ben Corpuz (left) and Rizza Solis (right).
To view all the photos from the event, click here.
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