FMC-ENGGEOMB Celebrate With the theme : “ Essence of Giving”, at Annual Holiday Gala

By: Nonita Mole

The Filipino Members Chapter of Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba recently hosted its highly anticipated Annual Holiday Gala and Fundraising event on November 30, 2024, at Canada Inns Pembina. The event attracted an impressive gathering of members, sponsors, family, friends, and guests, all united by a commitment to the spirit of service and generosity.

As a first-time attendee, I was thrilled to connect with fellow engineering graduates who are doing great in their fields while dedicating their time to give back to the community. This year's theme, "The Essence of Giving," not only celebrated the festive season but also sought to raise funds for the education, training, and professional development of newcomers and Chapter members.

Members and guests arrived in smart casual attire - "ugly" holiday sweaters, adding color and vibrancy to the festivities. The creativity and camaraderie among attendees created a joyful atmosphere that resonated throughout the evening.

Guest Speaker Michael Gregoire, P.Eng., delivered an inspiring speech on the importance of giving through involvement and participation. He highlighted three forms of giving: 1. Financial contributions and material donations,2. Sharing resources, time, skills, knowledge, and mentorship—recognizing that every achievement is built upon the foundation of volunteer efforts, and 3. Kindness.

Following the engaging speech, dinner was prepared and while attendees enjoyed their meals, intermission featuring a series of talented performances, showcasing the artistic flair within our community. The musical numbers added an energetic and uplifting atmosphere to the evening, providing a perfect transition from a delightful meal to the highlights of the events .

Highlights of the events include : Sponsor Recognition segment, BMO Presentation, Recognition of the new Engineers-in-Training (EIT) and Professional Engineers (P.Eng.) and Presentation of Scholarship & Bursary Awards. Special awards were given to recognize outstanding contributions, as well as acknowledging individuals who have made significant strides in their respective fields.

This year awardees are Ms. Ethel Clemente Fernandez , P.Eng and Dr. Marolo Alfaro, PhD, P.Eng. Here’s the exemplary achievements of the 2 awardees:

Ethel Clemente Fernandez, P.Eng

🔸2024 Judith Weismann Women In Engineering Champion award

🔸Fellowship of Engineers Canada

She is the first Filipina to receive these awards.

Dr. Marolo Alfaro, Ph.D., P.Eng

🔸2024 Technical Excellence award

He is the first Filipino and the 10th professor out of 62 awardees to receive this award since this was first given in 1962.

As the recognition ceremonies came to a close, attendees had the opportunity to participate in the Door Prizes and Silent Auction Draws and the much awaited 50/50 draw that added an element of excitement to the night. The dance floor soon opened, inviting guests to celebrate their successes and forge new connections in a lively atmosphere.

Overall, the event was a resounding success, filled with moments of inspiration, recognition, and entertainment. As we reflect on the achievements of the evening, we are reminded of the incredible potential within our community and the bright future that lies ahead for engineers everywhere.

Photos capturing the joy and excitement of the evening are available on the Chapter's social media pages. The Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba looks forward to building upon this year's success and is eager to plan future gatherings that will strengthen connections and enhance community impact for years to come.

(Cover photo credit : FMC-EngGeoMB 2024 Holiday Gala & Fundraising Event Photobooth)

FMC-ENGGEOMB Celebrate With the theme : “ Essence of Giving”, at Annual Holiday Gala

By: Nonita Mole

The Filipino Members Chapter of Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba recently hosted its highly anticipated Annual Holiday Gala and Fundraising event on November 30, 2024, at Canada Inns Pembina. The event attracted an impressive gathering of members, sponsors, family, friends, and guests, all united by a commitment to the spirit of service and generosity.

As a first-time attendee, I was thrilled to connect with fellow engineering graduates who are doing great in their fields while dedicating their time to give back to the community. This year's theme, "The Essence of Giving," not only celebrated the festive season but also sought to raise funds for the education, training, and professional development of newcomers and Chapter members.

Members and guests arrived in smart casual attire - "ugly" holiday sweaters, adding color and vibrancy to the festivities. The creativity and camaraderie among attendees created a joyful atmosphere that resonated throughout the evening.

Guest Speaker Michael Gregoire, P.Eng., delivered an inspiring speech on the importance of giving through involvement and participation. He highlighted three forms of giving: 1. Financial contributions and material donations,2. Sharing resources, time, skills, knowledge, and mentorship—recognizing that every achievement is built upon the foundation of volunteer efforts, and 3. Kindness.

Following the engaging speech, dinner was prepared and while attendees enjoyed their meals, intermission featuring a series of talented performances, showcasing the artistic flair within our community. The musical numbers added an energetic and uplifting atmosphere to the evening, providing a perfect transition from a delightful meal to the highlights of the events .

Highlights of the events include : Sponsor Recognition segment, BMO Presentation, Recognition of the new Engineers-in-Training (EIT) and Professional Engineers (P.Eng.) and Presentation of Scholarship & Bursary Awards. Special awards were given to recognize outstanding contributions, as well as acknowledging individuals who have made significant strides in their respective fields.

This year awardees are Ms. Ethel Clemente Fernandez , P.Eng and Dr. Marolo Alfaro, PhD, P.Eng. Here’s the exemplary achievements of the 2 awardees:

Ethel Clemente Fernandez, P.Eng

🔸2024 Judith Weismann Women In Engineering Champion award

🔸Fellowship of Engineers Canada

She is the first Filipina to receive these awards.

Dr. Marolo Alfaro, Ph.D., P.Eng

🔸2024 Technical Excellence award

He is the first Filipino and the 10th professor out of 62 awardees to receive this award since this was first given in 1962.

As the recognition ceremonies came to a close, attendees had the opportunity to participate in the Door Prizes and Silent Auction Draws and the much awaited 50/50 draw that added an element of excitement to the night. The dance floor soon opened, inviting guests to celebrate their successes and forge new connections in a lively atmosphere.

Overall, the event was a resounding success, filled with moments of inspiration, recognition, and entertainment. As we reflect on the achievements of the evening, we are reminded of the incredible potential within our community and the bright future that lies ahead for engineers everywhere.

Photos capturing the joy and excitement of the evening are available on the Chapter's social media pages. The Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba looks forward to building upon this year's success and is eager to plan future gatherings that will strengthen connections and enhance community impact for years to come.

(Cover photo credit : FMC-EngGeoMB 2024 Holiday Gala & Fundraising Event Photobooth)