Filipino-Canadian entrepreneur Gelaine Santiago was awarded one of the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) Top 25 Immigrants in Canada.
Gelaine Santiago, the co-founder with her husband Jerome of the social enterprise Cambio & Co., was awarded for her brand which showcases contemporary, conscious fashion made with Filipino soul designs and handcrafted in the Philippines by talented Filipino artisans.
Santiago, the child of immigrant Filipino parents, received the people’s choice award for immigrants who have created a positive impact on their communities.
The first national award program in Canada that recognizes the achievements of all immigrants was given on June 25 in Toronto as Canada celebrated its first Filipino Heritage Month.
Writing about her award, Gerlaine Santiago paid tribute to the Filipino-Canadian community on the Cambio & Co. website.
“I think about the Filipino-Canadian community and the people who worked tirelessly to make Filipino Heritage Month an official celebration. It’s because of them that stories of younger Filipinos like me can be shared and celebrated on a national platform,” wrote Santiago.
In her blog, Santiago affirmed the mission of Cambio & Co.: “We want to create a space for Filipinos in the diaspora to reconnect with their roots by providing them with tangible pathways to learn about Filipino traditions and history through contemporary, ethical fashion.”
Santiago advocates educating the youth about the preservation of Filipino traditions and the impact of the fashion industry on water quality and global health. Cambio & Co. shares the stories of their products, how they are made, and the people who make their products, in order to promote sustainable consumption and civic engagement.
“We want young Filipinos to feel proud of the culture and communities they come from, and to feel like no matter where you are in the world, you are not alone,” Santiago said.
SEND congratulations for Gelaine Santiago and Cambio & Co., showcasing Filipino entrepreneurs and Philippine design in Canada!
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