Giancarlo de Vera is a name that resonates in advocacy circles, not just for his achievements but for the deep-rooted values he embodies as a Filipino-Australian. From the United Nations to his role as CEO of BEING, the New South Wales peak body for mental health consumers and psychosocial disability, his career reflects the power of lived experience and cultural heritage in driving systemic reform.
Born to a Filipino family emphasising community and resilience, Giancarlo has seamlessly integrated these values into his leadership and advocacy. He serves in multiple roles, including Secretary of the Disabled Australian Lawyers Association, Treasurer of the Australian Centre for Disability Law, and an IncludeAbility Ambassador with the Australian Human Rights Commission. He is also a Non-Executive Director of the National Mental Health Consumer Alliance and the Tenants Union of NSW. He sits on the Board of the NSW Government’s Ageing and Disability Commission and the Australian Government’s National Disability Data Asset Council.
Giancarlo’s impact is widely recognized. He was named an Australian Government Ambassador for the International Day of People with Disability, honoured as one of Pro Bono Australia’s Impact 25, and included in the “40 Under 40 Most Influential Asian-Australians.” These accolades highlight his leadership in promoting inclusivity, systemic reform, and human dignity.
From Disability Advocacy to Mental Health Leadership
Joining BEING, Giancarlo says, was a natural step in his advocacy journey. He sees the role as an opportunity to amplify voices often unheard in mental health discussions.
“My advocacy has always been about creating spaces where lived experiences drive meaningful and systemic change,” he shared. “I want to use my own experiences, especially how mental health can be disabling for many, to improve systems and attitudes.”
As CEO, his immediate priority is to strengthen BEING’s position as a trusted voice for diverse mental health consumers across New South Wales. This includes broadening membership and addressing often-overlooked systemic issues, such as the social factors affecting mental health.
“Employment, financial security, education, and housing are critical drivers of mental health, yet they’re not discussed enough,” he emphasized.
Leading with Filipino Values
Giancarlo credits much of his leadership style to his Filipino heritage.
“My Filipino heritage has instilled in me a deep sense of community, resilience, and the importance of collective well-being,” he explained.
These values shape his collaborative and empathetic leadership style. “I prefer to lead from behind, with humility and respect for the varied expertise of my team. This approach empowers others and fosters meaningful change,” he noted.
For him, Filipino values like bayanihan (communal unity) and pakikipagkapwa (empathy and respect for others) are not just cultural ideals—they are strategic tools in advocacy and leadership.
Building a Better Mental Health System
Giancarlo’s vision for BEING goes beyond immediate goals. He hopes to reshape how mental health is perceived and addressed, making it more inclusive and reflective of consumers’ diverse realities.
“Being a peak body for mental health consumers means ensuring that no matter where you are in NSW or what your background is, you feel represented,” he said.
By addressing broader societal issues and working with like-minded organizations, he aims to create a system where mental health is seen as part of overall well-being, not treated in isolation.
Inspiring Filipino Professionals
As a Filipino-Australian leader in advocacy, Giancarlo hopes to inspire others from his community to step into leadership roles.
“To Filipino professionals aspiring to lead in advocacy and public policy, embrace the power of our values and cultural heritage,” he advised. “Filipinos have a long history of bridging our unique culture with the West. This perspective is invaluable.”
He encourages fellow Filipinos to stay grounded in their heritage while supporting each other. “Asian Australians are gaining visibility, with much focus on East and South Asians. But we Filipinos have our own story, and it’s time we claim it.”
A Legacy of Change
Giancarlo de Vera’s story is a powerful reminder that lived experience, cultural values, and a commitment to community can drive lasting impact. His work bridges gaps between policy and practice, ensuring advocacy is inclusive and transformative.
For Filipino communities worldwide, he represents the potential to lead with purpose while staying connected to one’s roots. As he continues shaping conversations around mental health, disability, and inclusivity, he remains a beacon of resilience and collective action—a true embodiment of the Filipino spirit.
