Our goal is to provide a one-stop solution to all the problems faced by Filipino migrants in Canterbury: Delia Richards

She is the Liaison Manager for Filipino worker's Social Integration Programme at Canterbury Migrants Centre, and also the founder and President of the community organisation Philippine Culture and Sports (PCS).

(caption for picture above: Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Jesus S. Domingo (front) with Delia and her team)

Her own New Zealand story started in the 1980s when she moved here from the Philippines in search of greener pastures. But not the one to forget her home land easily, she started teaching young Filipino children the history and culture of the Philippines through dance and music. This later translated into a full-time passion when she founded the PCS in 1996.

Now, after two decades of working with various community groups and government agencies, and being a proud mother of children who are well-settled in life, Delia's vision is “to provide a one-stop shop that will serve as the contact point for information in adjusting to the Kiwi way of living, thus minimising the effect of culture shock” for all Filipinos migrating to Aotearoa.  

“This we are doing by combining the Philippines Workers' Social Integration Programme and Philippines Community Support Services. We are designing an effective settlement approach for workers engaged in the rebuild of Christchurch, as well as those working in healthcare, dairy, technology, hospitality and other areas,” she informed.

Minister Nicky Wagner (middle, in blue jacket) with the team of volunteers from Philippine Culture and Sports

Delia and her team are also eagerly looking forward to the Pistang Pilipino 2017 sa Christchurch.

“This is our National Reunion of Federation of Filipino Associations, Societies and Clubs in New Zealand, which will be held during the Labour Weekend in Christchurch next year,” she added.