Get to Know: Ate Shari
We interviewed Ate Shari to really get to know them. Read along to find out more about Ate Shari.
Ate Shari (she/her)
Staff since April 2006
Program Director
“If you have the choice between being right and being kind, choose being kind.”
Dahil Sa Galing Bata …
Share the lessons learned and impact of Galing Bata on your life.
Dahil sa Galing Bata, I have grown so much in various aspects of my life - as an Ate, a leader, an educator, a youth development/community worker, and more! Galing Bata has provided me with a lot of opportunities to step out of my comfort zone, speak up, and stand up for what is best for our students, families, staff, and community. I am truly honored to make a tangible difference in the lives of our youth and families through my work in Galing Bata. It has been incredibly enriching and rewarding to be a part of the positive impact of our program, and I am grateful for the sense of community and purpose that Galing Bata has given me. Dahil sa Galing Bata, I have become the Ate Shari that I am proud to be today.
Share one example of how you have seen Galing Bata’s “Gabay, Lingap at Bantay” in action. It could be during a time when you were a student, volunteer or staff.
I have seen many examples of us providing “gabay, lingap, at bantay” (quality guidance, care and protection) to our students and families. The sense of being a “family” in Galing Bata exemplifies these values in action. As part of the Galing Bata family, we consistently support one another, fostering a nurturing and safe environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
What is one wish you have for our students and families we serve?
I wish for our students and families to experience the same joy of confidently embracing their identity and culture throughout their lives, just as they do in Galing Bata. May they find more spaces where they can celebrate who they are with pride and joy.
Share with us your favorite self-care or wellness activity that you practice.
Some of the wellness activities I practice include holistic nutrition, natural self care, aromatherapy, massages, meditation, affirmations, reading books and playing with my cat, Lexi. 😻
To really get a glimpse of who you are, what Filipino songs are you currently listening to?
Sa Susunod na Habang Buhay by Ben&Ben and Kumpas by Moira dela Torre.