As
devoted members of the Filipino Community of Seattle, Diony and Aida Corsilles
lend their time and support to countless Filipino organizations. It is because
of their love for their fellow Filipinos and the Filipino Community that they
give tirelessly of their time and energy. It is involvement that transcends
beyond the boundaries of the Filipino Community of Seattle.Their involvement is done not with fanfare, but with humility and grace. It is done out of their sheer desire to give back to their community and ensure that the Filipino Community of Seattle serves the needs of both the young and old and continues to strive now and for future generations.
Like so many before them, Diony and Aida came to the United States in search of opportunity.Once here in Seattle, Diony demonstrated his strong work ethic and desire to succeed by working part-time and attending the University of Washington. Diony earned a BA in English in 1976, and a Masters & Skills Certificate in 1991.
For 14 years, Diony worked for the Seattle Division of Todd Shipyards as a personnel assistant with promotions to publicity supervisor, assistant director of personnel and personnel director. Diony then went on to work as a jobs specialist for the Employment Opportunities Center (EOC) and the project director for the Senior Community Service Employment Program at the National Asian Pacific Center on Aging.
Over the years, Diony still found time to volunteer for a host of programs and projects in the Filipino Community. Diony has shared his leadership skills with the Rizal Bridge & Park Preservation Society, Filipino Youth Empowerment Project (FYEP), Tahanan Multi-Service Programs, IDIC, FAPAGOW, FYA, Filipino Community of Renton, Bayanihan Tribune, Filipino American Herald, Fil-American Chronicle, and Panorama Asian Magazine.
A registered nurse by profession, Aida worked for 15 years at Swedish Hospital in Seattle and as a Public Health nurse for close to two years. Twelve years ago, Aida left the nursing profession to manage a small family business while maintaining her volunteer service as a councilmember for the Filipino Community of Seattle, clubhouse manager, and worker/consultant for various community causes.
Aida has served in a number of leadership roles for a variety of organizations including President and a founding member of the Filipino Nurses Association of Washington, President of the Beacon United Methodist Women, Board member of the Atlantic Street Center, and President of the Filipino Women's Caring Group of Washington. Aida has also developed a strong interest in Tahanan and has become a champion supporter of its Multi-Service Programs which provide emergency needs, housing and health care for the elderly and new immigrants.
Their combined list of accomplishment is evidence of how much a part of their lives community involvement is. Despite how demanding the extent of their involvement can be, it is also very rewarding for them as well. Like so many in the community, Diony and Aida share a common desire to preserve the Filipino culture and heritage for future generations here in Seattle. By the simple act of being involved, they embrace the true meaning of community and demonstrate what a great privilege it is to give back in kind.
What is interesting to note is that, joined by their four children and a host of family and friends, Diony and Aida recently celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary.In lieu of any gifts, they requested that donation be made to Tahanan. In turn, they were able to quietly present more than $5,000.00 to Tahanan. "It was such a moving gesture," said Mars Rivera as he shared this story."They did not have to do that, but they gave it all to the Tahanan cause.They are really giving leaders in our community."
Diony and Aida's continued support and dedication to the Filipino Community and to Pista Sa Nayon is unending and greatly appreciated by so many.As they look to the 12th annual Pista Sa Nayon, they look forward to joining the community in a spectacular celebration of the culture and heritage of the Philippines right here in the Pacific Northwest.
"Aida and I are so very honored to have been chosen as this year's Hermano/Hermana Mayor. Pista is a wonderful event that showcases our culture in the same style as the traditional fiestas of our homeland, and one that grows every year," said Diony."It is here in the States that a festival like ours instills and perpetuates our cultural identity. We are so happy to celebrate Pista with everyone!"
Diony and Aida Corsilles are the Hermano/Hermana Mayor for the 12th Annual Pista Sa Nayon. Pista thanks them for their support and commitment in helping to make this year's festival a success.Diony and Aida, we applaud you for your continued devotion and leadership to the greater Filipino community.