In partnership with:
The FWA-UK (Filipino Women’s Association UK) is hosting an event on 7th March 2023 to celebrate International Women’s Day at the Khalili Lecture Theatre in SOAS University, London. The theme of the evening will be “Constructing the Filipino Woman in Britain: Towards Agency and Empowerment” and will be held in partnership with the Philippine Studies as SOAS and the Kanlungan Filipino Consortium.
The wide-ranging discussion looks at the various ways the Filipino woman in the UK has been constructed through the years — from mail order brides, domestic workers, caregivers to NHS essential workers. The discussion hopes to go beyond these social constructs and at the same time address current challenges — from human trafficking, domestic violence, or workforce stereotyping.
The goal of the event is to support the Filipino community in the UK by providing information and resources to empower Filipino women to break these social constructs and exercise their rights. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a dialogue and will be invited to discuss the status of Filipino women in the country today, including the challenges they face in terms of employment, education, and healthcare.
Programme:
| 17:30 – | 18:00 | Registration |
| 18:00 – | 18:05 | Welcome Remarks Crystal Dias, Moderator and FWA-UK Vice-Chairman for Internal Affairs |
| 18:05 – | 18:15 | Origin and Challenges of the FWA-UK Dr Remy Reyes, FWA-UK Founding Chairman |
| 18:15 – | 18:30 | Cultural Identity of Filipino Women Dr Cristina Juan, Philippine Studies at SOAS University |
| 18:30 – | 18:40 | Online Dating & Human Trafficking Lalaine Garcia, Domestic Violence Survivor |
| 18:40 – | 18:55 | Campaign for Filipino Migrant Rights Eileen Esteban, Director Kanlungan Filipino Consoritum |
| 18:55 – | 19:10 | The Status of Filipino Women in Britain Today Audience discussion |
| 19:10 – | 19:30 | Film Showcase: “Chasing Dreams” Loralie Canale, Rise Research Ltd |
| 19:30 – | 19:35 | Closing Remarks Dulia Prado, FWA-UK Chairman |
| 19:35 – | 20:00 | Networking & Close Snacks will be served |
The FWA-UK was established on 28th April 1988 in response to the portrayal by the UK media of Filipino Women as nothing more than just ‘mail-order brides’. This negative image of Filipinas was brought to the attention of Mrs. Angeles ‘Nene’ Quimson, (wife of the then Philippine Ambassador to the Court of St. James’s, John T. Quimson). She invited ladies from varied backgrounds, professions, and careers with the single purpose of raising the profile of Filipino Women in the United Kingdom. Over the years, the association has grown to become a leading voice for Filipino women in the country. The FWA- UK is committed to making a difference in the lives of our Filipino youth and promote the rights and welfare of the Filipino community in the UK, especially the elderly and vulnerable.
The FWA-UK encourages everyone to attend and to celebrate the achievements of Filipino women in the UK. The event is open to all, but seats are limited to 60.
I am proud to be a native of my beloved country, the Philippines. I value the cultural traditions and many other aspects of being a citizen of nativeland. The men and women have been so brave and fought hard to show love and to protect the democracy of the nation. This strength of individuals have been demonstrated in particular during the formation of the Filipino Women’s Assciation ( FWA). This organisation has been formed for almost a quarter of a century. The FWA existed due to the amazing women who work tirelessly to maintain the common desire to do good and give back to the society. “Mabuhay ang FWA. May the Almighty God Bless all of their good woks. With all my warm wishes. Tina Fletcher.
Correction from my previous comment. It will be 35 years this year 2023 since FWA was established. Previously, I mentioned a quarter of a century ( 25 years). My apology for this mistake. Thank you.