Did you know that there are more than 200 Filipino community and non-profit organisations across the UK? We are delighted to feature your group on Tinig UK under our Community Voices section. Between 200 to 400 words, tell readers where you are based in the UK and what you do. Don’t forget to add links to your website or social media accounts. Email us at info@tinig-uk.com.
By Clarissa Dyson
The Berkshire Filipino-British Association (BFBA) is a Reading-based non-profit organisation run by volunteers, dedicated to integrating the Filipino community through social, cultural and charity events since the mid-1990s. One of our proudest achievements is our biennial fundraising for Children of the Dump, a UK-based charity supporting children living in Manila’s dumpsites. I am blessed enough to live in a rich country and manage to give my children their wants and needs and I wanted to do something to support the underprivileged children back home.
Over 30 years, we have raised thousands of pounds to provide these kids with a safe haven, education and a chance to thrive and lift their families out of poverty.
Our events are designed to bring people together, like our popular Kasayahang Pinoy celebration, where families enjoy traditional Filipino games like ‘Maria went to town’, paper dance and pop the balloon.
We are very proud of our own cultural dance troupe although we need to pass the baton to younger dancers now!
We prioritise mental and physical wellbeing through zumba, dance events and our new quarterly karaoke nights.
I’m grateful for our amazing committee and the spirit of teamwork that makes everything possible: Together Everyone Achieves More (TEAM)!
About the author
I’m Clarissa Dyson, chairperson of the Berkshire Filipino-British Association (BFBA). As a devoted wife to Graham, mother of two grown sons, and lola to three lovely grandkids, I’m passionate about giving back to the community. By day, I work in a financial institution. On my free time, I’m a hands-on lola and volunteer leader.
