The UPAAT Celebrates its Sapphire Anniversary

The UPAAT Celebrates its Sapphire Anniversary

45 YEARS OF SERVICE AND LEADERSHIP 

October 8, 2022

TORONTO– The University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Toronto (UPAAT) is celebrating its 45th anniversary with a dinner-dance gala on November 26, 2022 at the Novotel Toronto North York hotel. Titled “Kita-Kits sa 45th,” the gala brings together UP alumni and friends after the two-year long Covid hiatus. Ticket reservations can now be made at https://kitakitssa45th.eventbrite.ca/

Established in 1977, the UPAAT has since grown to 400 members to date.  Through the last 45 years, it has constantly strived to promote the UP ideals of excellence, service and leadership within and outside the organization. Its mentorship program has tremendously helped younger members carve their professional and career path with the guidance of experts. The association also assists new immigrant UP alumni and their families to have access to community resources to support their settlement in Canada. Pag-aaruga, a summer internship program implemented through the Toronto Catholic District School Board, was launched last year. It aims to develop inter-generational exchange among UPAAT members and Filipino-Canadian youth. The program provides opportunities for Filipino-Canadian high school students to become more involved in the community

Truly, the services of the organization extend not only beyond its own membership, but beyond Canada.

In the spirit of giving back to the alma matter that nurtured them, UPAAT supports the education of poor but deserving students with the Abot-Kamay Scholarship Program. And when calamities strike the Philippines, the alumni never fail to come together to aid their kababayans back home through fundraisers.

“It is time to celebrate these achievements while, at the same time, renew old friendships and welcome many UP grads who choose to make Canada their home,” said Agnes Manasan, UPAAT President, and also the Senior Manager for Settlement Services at the Catholic Community Services of York Region.

The Gala is open to everyone and promises a night of fun and nostalgia with the Salida Band, DJ music across different generations, raffle prizes and Distinguished Alumni Awards. Tickets are sold at $80.00 each.

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About UPAAT 

The University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Toronto (UPAAT) is a community organization run by dedicated volunteers. Since its establishment in 1977, the Association has been serving the needs of its members through various social, cultural and educational activities. As part of the larger community in Toronto, the UPAAT partners with other organizations to promote a positive image of Filipinos in Canada, as seen in this series of webinars that raise public awareness of the rich culture of the Philippines. It regularly conducts fundraisers for the Abot-Kamay Scholarship Program and for the Sagip Pilipinas emergency relief back home.