The Filipino Nursing Diaspora Network (FiND) is thrilled to announce the approval of its application for the FECCA COVID-19 Small Grants project, securing crucial support for its groundbreaking initiative, “Kalinga: Nurturing Resiliency of the Filipino community amidst COVID.” This visionary project seeks to tackle the multifaceted challenges emerging in the post-COVID-19 landscape, including fragmented healthcare delivery and a decline in community resilience, especially among vulnerable groups in Australia.
In a statement of enthusiasm, Jayson Catiwa, RN, MN, MRes, the Project Manager, remarked, “This approval is a testament to our unwavering commitment to community well-being. We’re excited to empower our community through education and support.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of individuals, necessitating specialized attention to ensure holistic recovery. It has impeded the Filipino community’s ability to cope effectively and hindered long-term recovery and growth. The aftermath effects demand targeted interventions, culturally sensitive support, and accurate information to ensure a comprehensive and effective response to the challenges posed by COVID-19.
Jerome Babate, Executive Director of the Filipino Nursing Diaspora Network, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the grant approval, emphasizing, “We’re elated to receive this grant, which will significantly enhance our efforts in securing the well-being of the Filipino-Australian community.”
The “Kalinga” project is structured around three fundamental components:
Cultural Health Champions: This project will identify influential individuals from Filipino cultural communities who will serve as ambassadors, disseminating accurate information and building trust within their communities.
Mentorship Program: A mentorship initiative will connect Filipino healthcare professionals with mentees from the community, providing guidance on health promotion and career development.
Podcast Series: An engaging podcast series will feature interviews with community members, healthcare professionals, and cultural experts to promote health education and cultural understanding.
The overarching goal of the project is to cultivate a healthier, more empowered, and resilient community capable of overcoming the lingering effects of the pandemic. Anticipated outcomes include heightened community trust, improved cultural awareness, increased vaccine booster uptake, and fortified resilience through a sustainable supportive network.
Professor Violeta Lopez, President of the Filipino Nursing Diaspora Network, shared her insights: “The ‘Kalinga’ project represents a significant stride towards a more resilient Filipino community in Australia. We are dedicated to fostering health, knowledge, and cultural cohesion within our community.”
For further information about the “Kalinga” project and the Filipino Nursing Diaspora Network, please contact:
Project Manager:
Mr. Jayson Catiwa
Email: findkalinga@gmail.com
The “Kalinga” project promises to be a beacon of hope and education, transcending age, gender, and family structures to offer a brighter and healthier future for all in the Filipino-Australian community.
