By Gerry Saguin
More than just a community group, the Filipino Fiesta Society of Lethbridge Alberta (FIESLA) stands as a vibrant, nonprofit force dedicated to amplifying the presence and enriching the lives of the Filipino community in Lethbridge and across southern Alberta.
The driving force behind FIESLA is its president, Gerry Saguin, a well-known community builder whose commitment stretches back 35 years to his arrival in Richmond, British Columbia. Even after contemplating a quieter life following his move to Lethbridge in 2020, the call to community service proved irresistible.
Since its inception, FIESLA has already made a significant impact, most notably by hosting Canada’s biggest Filipino summer festival: the Fiesta Extravaganza. Its debut last year saw an unprecedented turnout of performers, attendees, volunteers, and vendors.
The event shone bright with the presence of Lethbridge’s Mayor Blaine Hyggen, Member of Parliament Rachael Thomas, MLA Nathan Neudorf, and representatives from the Philippine Consulate. It delivered on all fronts, boasting a fantastic array of food and non-food vendors alongside non-stop entertainment, including captivating cultural performances and music, all culminating in a headline performance by Philippine cinema and TV icon Gabby Concepcion.
The excitement continues this year as the event returns to Henderson Lake Park, promising back-to-back performances from legendary singer Dessa and Philippine movie and television star Joross Gamboa. Beyond the spectacular Fiesta Extravaganza, FIESLA actively fosters community spirit through initiatives like year- round basketball tournaments. The goal is clear: to forge an even stronger community within Lethbridge and its surrounding areas.
For FIESLA, there’s no looking back – only a bright horizon for the Filipino community.
ReyFort Media 
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