Encomienda is the new leader of F.A.M.E. INC – 2014-2015.
The Filipino Australian Movement for Empowerment, Inc (FAME) held its 7th Annual General Meeting and Election of New Officers. It was held at Chilli Peppers Restaurant and Function Centre (formerly Pinoy Lounge Basement) in Blacktown last Sept 13, 2014.
Returning and Inducting Officer was Councillor Jacqui Donaldson of Blacktown City Council. Rod Dingle, the outgoing Executive Director of FAME, stepped down graciously after presenting his report. Cesar Bartolome, Founding Chair, answered some concerns from the members regarding the movement.
A spirited discussion ensued regarding the relevance of FAME in the 21st Century. Some members brought up the topic of scrutinising the list of members and re-focus our attention to more significant matters. A quote from [anthropologist] Margaret Mead was read to re-assure everyone where FAME, Inc comes in: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed it’s the only thing that ever has.”
The Objectives of FAME, INC states: “ FAME is a movement and advocacy group geared towards the political, economic and social empowerment of Filipino Australians to enable them to become active stakeholders in mainstream Australian Society.” Yes, we can do it as a Team!
The elected officers are: Max Encomienda, Executive Director 2014-2015; Neria Soliman, Asst. Exec. Director who will serve automatically as Executive Director for 2015-16; Rod Dingle (Immediate Past Executive Director), State Secretary; Dennis Laxamana, State Treasurer; Emily Rudd, State PRO; Phillip Ranoso, State Auditor. Elected Directors are: Cesar Bartolome (Founding Chair), Jade Cadelina, Ferdi Francisco (Past Executive Director) and Ross Iglesia.
Included in the AGM Agenda was a list of Planned Activities for the rest of 2014-2015 including the Annual Christmas Party on December 2014; Clean-Up Australia Day on 08 March, 2015; Blacktown City Festival Parade on 30 May 2015; FAME’s 7th Anniversary Ball (tba); and AGM to be held on September 13, 2015. Other Activities include: Supporting the Philippine Community Council of NSW and other Community Organizations and also supporting the Office of the Philippine Consulate General Headquarters and its attached Agencies.