17/11/2025
Last Thursday, our Multicultural AOD program teamed up with the Philippine Consulate Queensland for “Bayanihan para sa Kalusugan: Standing stronger for mental health and social wellbeing” 🇵🇭🤝
We welcomed more than 70 Filipino community and business leaders for an evening of discussion, workshopping and powerful personal stories of resilience. Honorary Consul of the Philippines to Queensland Atty Sheryll Gabutero and Queensland Mental Health Commission Ivan Frkovic spoke about the importance of communities coming together to support people living with mental health and/or alcohol and other drug concerns.
Ms Maddie dela Paz shared her own mental health journey, offering hope and a clear message that community-led solutions can make a real difference for those in need. Our own Marina Chand, Rodel Josu and Kane Solly highlighted community health resources already available before the group workshopped how the Filipino community can reduce stigma, get help to those who need it and respond to mental health, su***de and AOD in the Filipino community.
The word cloud at the end of the night said it all: people left feeling more aware, empowered and ready for the next steps in community capacity building in 2026.
Thank you to the Queensland Mental Health Commission, the Philippines Consulate of Queensland, our sponsors and every attendee for a fantastic evening. 💜