International and Heritage Languages Association
The IHLA Newsletter
Volume 19 Issue 3 | Editor: Marina Castro | April 4, 2022
The Hiyas (Gem) Award was established (1996) by the Karilagan Dancec Society to recognize deserving Filipino Canadians for their achievements and contributions to the Filipino community in Edmonton (and Alberta). During the 25th Hiyas (Gem) Awards on March 19, 2022, the Filipino Language and Culture Staff and students (under the umbrella of the Filipino Canadian Saranay Association of Alberta) were selected and received awards in the following categories:
Excellence in Education – Grace Alarcon-Isla (Elementary Teacher/program manager)
Excellence in Fine Arts – Zaidrian Isla (Junior High student)
Excellence in Community Service for Youth – Gemikalyn Isla (Senior High student)
Excellence in Community Service for Senior Citizen – Thelma Araja (Saranay/School Music Director)
Excellence in Community Service for Adults – Cecilia Macalintal (Youth Music Director)
Excellence in Communication Arts – Lito Velasco (High school teacher)
The Filipino Language and Culture School of Edmonton congratulate our staff and student awardees.
