Recognizing the need to maintain peace between religions, Nathaniel and Amina Mambuay made it their mission to eradicate discrimination against Muslims and help create a better understanding between people of different faiths. They started an advocacy which promotes a culture of non-violence and peace by creating conducive environments for dialogue and discussion, without fear of hostility.
As an educator, Amina first held peace seminars among her students at the Mindanao State University. She later felt that this uphill battle against prejudice should not be limited to the classroom. She and her husband then began to conduct peace seminars in their neighborhood, which later extended to nearby municipalities, and eventually to other regions.
“Huwag natin tingnan ang isa’t-isa with labels—Christian, Muslim, etc. Sana tingnan natin ang isa’t-isa as human beings created by one God.” – Amina Mambuay.
By using their own funds and with the help of a friend in Germany, the Mambuay’s expanded their advocacy and established Kalilintad Pilipinas, Inc. in 2013. The organization conducts trainings, workshops and seminars on peace and non-violent communication to different groups in Mindanao. In addition, the group extends educational support to less fortunate children, and holds values formation seminars for inmates.
Their children, Sarah, Lara, and Farrah, also help promote their advocacy of non-violence by facilitating peace camps for their fellow youths.
The Mambuay’s are aware that the complete elimination of prejudice and discrimination against people of different faiths is a tall order, but they are not disheartened by the magnitude of the issue they are confronting.
“We know that it won’t happen overnight, but what’s important is that we raise awareness on what is going on and we’re doing something to change this,” said Nathaniel, adding that the overwhelming sense of fulfillment they get when their Christian friends embrace them and tell them they were enlightened is enough motivation for them to pursue their cause.
The Mambuay’s family are one of the awardees of the 5th Jollibee Family Values Awards – the annual search for exemplary Filipino families, here and abroad, who promote positive family values through selflessly serving their fellowmen.
Nominate a family of everyday heroes in this year’s 6th Jollibee Family Value Awards. Click here for the mechanics of the competition: http://www.jollibee.com.ph/familyvaluesawards/general_mechanics.php
Five Filipino families and one OFW family in the special Global Pinoy Family category will be chosen by an esteemed panel of judges. A cash prize of Php 100,000 and a specially designed Michael Cacnio brass trophy await the chosen families.
The deadline of submission of nomination entries is on or before July 31, 2016 and the awarding ceremony is on September 22, 2016.
