Down south of Sydney, down the Illawarra way, is a group of Filipina women determined to make a difference. It’s women’s power all the way. The Illawarra Filipino and Multicultural Women’s Group (IFWCG) celebrated their 30th Anniversary last 3 October at Dapto Ribbonwood Community Hall. And they are thriving in the 3rd largest city in NSW.
The thriving women of Illawarra.
The Illawarra women’s group was founded with the aim of providing moral support for women to keep them from being marginalized and isolated. It is all about providing assistance for newly arrived migrants especially those married to Australians and to help them in the assimilation process.
But they’ve since come a long way to just providing friendship and a shoulder to cry on. Now on their 30th year, IFWCG have projects to raise women’s self esteem and becoming more productive members of society. They now conduct classes for dress making, knitting, computer training, health and lifestyle development, glass painting, craft and embroidery. Products produced from these classes are sold for club funds. They empower women by providing them pathways to upgrade their skills.
President Agapita Dorninger proudly spoke of the fundraising activities conducted annually some of which include Beauty pageants, Tribute to Mothers, the Big Morning Tea for Cancer and the Masquerade Ball.
The Ribbonwood Community Centre was abuzz with singing and dancing, food and even included a parade of costumes representing multiculturalism. Special guests included: Consul General Anne Jalando-on Louis, Senator Concetta Wells and Cr. Gordon Bradbury, Mayor of Wollongong.
Special awards were given to: Estrella McKinnon, one of the originals and to Remedios Macina.
Macina herself is a testimony to that. At 50 years old, she went from not having finished high school to completing a university degree majoring in History and Politics. “Any women if given the chance can succeed and even excel in any endeavour she chooses.” Said Macina.
Yes, its women power and they’re definitely making a difference!
