On December 8, 2024, the Philippine-Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES) gathered some 45 donors, supporters, and friends at the Haas & Haas Tea Salon in Vienna to celebrate and acknowledge their unwavering support for the organization’s initiatives over the past eight years. The intimate thanksgiving reception brought together both Filipino and Austrian attendees who have been instrumental in furthering PACES’ mission of fostering educational opportunities and promoting cultural exchange.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of a video showcasing PACES’ milestones over the last eight years. The video documented the organization’s achievements, including its successful scholarship programmes that have supported numerous Filipino students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The video also featured PACES’ various cultural initiatives that have strengthened ties between the Philippines and Austria.
Following the video presentation, PACES President Dr. Jane Gerardo-Abaya outlined the organization’s future plans. In her presentation, she introduced PACES new slogan, Passion, Action, Service for the Fili[pino Youth. The slogan embodies the direction PACES would like to pursue in the coming years:
- to generate more passion among members, donors and supporters to support the Philippines and its youth;
- to do more and more for PACES scholarship programmes; and
- together with everyone to make a difference in the lives of more FIlipino youth.
Dr. Gerardo-Abaya emphasized PACES’ commitment to expanding its scholarship programmes to benefit more Filipino students, not only in STEM but in vocational fields as well, citing the critical need for more skilled workforce in these fields.
She also expressed PACES’ aspiration to broaden its cultural activities, which have played a vital role in building bridges between the two nations.
In closing, Dr. Gerado-Abaya appealed to the attendees for their continued support and generosity. “The work we do at PACES would not be possible without your help,” she said. “As we look to the future, we hope you will remain our partners in empowering Filipino youth and celebrating our shared cultural heritage.”
At the intermission, Austrian violinist Veronika Weber entertained the audience with some classic violin pieces.
The event concluded with lively conversations, fostering camaraderie and solidarity among the attendees, who left the event inspired by PACES’ vision and accomplishments.
PACES, founded in 2016, remains a steadfast advocate for education and cultural exchange. Through its programmes, it has supported several Filipino STEM scholars and promoted a deeper understanding of Philippine culture in Austria. It looks forward to continuing its mission with the same passion and dedication that have defined its work for nearly a decade.
View more photos of the thanksgiving celebration.
