By: Dulia Prado, Chairman
When one considers the position that Mrs. Angeles Quimson held in Philippine society throughout her life, her title ‘Founder of the Filipino Women’s Association-UK’ would have little meaning to her circle of friends. But for us in the FWA-UK, this is a title we honour and respect and are at pains to protect. She was a ‘Tita’, an ‘Ate’, and a friend who inspired courage, trust, and self-respect, the values that made FWA-UK survive.
Thirty-three years ago, a group of like-minded women responded to the invitation of Mrs. Nene Quimson to form an organisation for Filipino women, to project a positive image of Filipino women in the United Kingdom. Since its formation in 1988, the organisation has earned the respect of the communities here in the UK and at home. Her vision has grown into what we are today.
She believed in EDUCATION and that belief has inspired us. Many lives of underprivileged children at home have been transformed. The simplest and most transformative thing we can do is to promote education. Education reduces poverty and unleashes economic growth.
She has also inspired us to help the most vulnerable in our society, to help the abandoned mothers and their babies, to give what we can to the victims of calamities at home. Her inspiration is endless. Her charitable work knew no bounds. From the students of the arts in New York to the religious organisations at home. Indeed, we are privileged to have shared part of the remarkable life of a remarkable woman. She has left a legacy of kindness and strong leadership. Last year, I received an email from her, and I quote:
“I wish you all the best of luck and keep FWA-UK as great as ever.”
I would like to think that we do our best. Perhaps and sometimes our best is not good enough, but I have faith in her kindness, her understanding, and above all, her trust in the FWA-UK.
As our founder, Mrs. Nene Quimson has inspired us and many others with her experiences, counsel, and her belief in doing good.
Thank you, Ma’am, for sharing your life with us. We will miss you!
