Sulong Kabataan Makes History as BC’s First Filipino Youth Mental Health Symposium
VANCOUVER, BC – On Sunday, July 27, 2025, history was made as Filipino Canadian youth from across British Columbia gathered at UBC Robson Square for Sulong Kabataan: Uplifting Filipino Youth Together, the province’s first-ever youth-led Filipino mental health symposium.
Organized in collaboration with Mabuhay House Society, the event was designed by youth, for youth and provided a brave, culturally grounded space for Filipinx youth aged 13–30 to explore identity, healing, and mental wellness.
“This event was a vital milestone for our community,” said Lester de Guzman, Chair of Mabuhay House Society. “It wasn’t just a conversation about mental health—it was about reclaiming our narratives, validating our struggles, and amplifying the voices of the next generation of Filipino Canadians.”
Over 100 youth and supporters took part in a powerful day that included:
Inspiring keynotes and panel discussions from youth leaders and mental health professionals
Interactive workshops, including zine-making and music-based healing sessions
Support from an onsite licensed counsellor providing safe spaces for reflection
A free Filipino lunch, generously sponsored by Pampanga’s Cuisine
Door prizes from community partners including ZebraClub, Vancouver Art Gallery, and Opus Art Supplies
With Filipino Canadians being one of the fastest-growing and youngest populations in BC, this event addressed a pressing need for culturally responsive mental health spaces. Sulong Kabataan offered not just dialogue—but solidarity, creativity, and healing.
“Let’s uplift each other. Let’s talk mental health.”
The organizers thank all participants, volunteers, speakers, and sponsors who made this historic event possible. The success of Sulong Kabataan marks a new chapter in youth leadership and mental health advocacy for the Filipino Canadian community.
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About Mabuhay House Society
Established in 2021, Mabuhay House Society is a registered non-profit society working closely with the provincial government to develop a provincial Filipino cultural centre that will be an inclusive, intercultural, and intergenerational space that Filipino Canadians can call home, where everyone is welcome. Mabuhay House Society is paving the way for the Filipino connection and community to thrive in BC. Visit our website at mabuhayhouse.ca.
For more info:
Lester de Guzman
778-960-5988
lester.deguzman@mabuhayhouse.ca
Sammie Jo Rumbaua for Pre-Event Interview
604-334-1800
sammiejo.rumbaua@mabuhayhouse.ca