Draft:Annie Chua-Frith

Introduction Annie Chua-Frith is a highly respected figure within the Filipino community in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, celebrated for multifaceted contributions as an author, motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and community leader (1). She currently serves as the President of the Philippine Bayanihan Association, where she played a pivotal role in advocating for the rights and recognition of the Filipino community. Annie is best known for instrumental efforts in the establishment of Mabuhay Park, Edmonton's first park dedicated to celebrating Filipino heritage, which stands as a testament to her dedication to cultural preservation and community building(2).

Early Life and Education Annie Chua-Frith was born in the Philippines and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Centro Escolar University in 1990. Her early career included working for 12 years with Expeditors International in Manila, where she rose to a supervisory role. She went to achieve her Professional Freight Forwarder Designation with the Canadian International Freight Forwarding Association. And she holds an Accounting Technician Diploma (with Honor) with Robertson College in 2022.

Career Annie joined the Live-in Caregiver Program in Canada in 2003, working as a nanny in Fort McMurray and Edmonton. She eventually became a successful entrepreneur, owning Assured Cargo International Ltd. and a holding company with her spouse, businesses that have further solidified her role as a prominent and influential figure in the local economy. Annie is also a published author, known for her best-selling book "Domestically Yours: A Caregiver’s Inspiring Journey (7)," which chronicles her personal experiences and challenges as a live-in caregiver in Canada. Her journey from Philippines to Canada is marked by resilience and determination, reflecting her unwavering commitment to providing a better future for her family while making significant contributions to her adopted community.

Community Involvement Annie has been actively involved in the Filipino community in Edmonton. She led the effort to name Mabuhay Park (6), the first Filipino park in Edmonton, and has held various leadership roles, including President of the MillWoods Vocabulaires Toastmasters Club. She is currently the President of the Philippine Bayanihan Association. Annie's leadership extends to her role as a motivational speaker, where she shares her inspiring story to empower others, particularly those facing similar challenges. She has been invited by various schools for the Read In Week and organizations in Edmonton and Calgary. She is one of the leaders who advocated for the month of June a Philippine Heritage Month celebration in Alberta and is now declared across Canada by the House of Commons (5).

Awards and Recognitions In 2017, Annie received the Manggagawang Pilipino of the Year Award in the 1st Golden Balangay Awards for her contributions to the Filipino community. Her efforts have been recognized through various accolades and public acknowledgments. Through her work, Annie continues to foster a spirit of unity and inclusivity, making her a beloved and influential leader in the Edmonton community. In addition, she was nominated by RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award (4). This prestigious award celebrates the achievements and contributions of immigrants who have made a positive impact in their communities across Canada. Annie's nomination highlights her significant efforts in advocating for the Filipino community in Edmonton and her various roles as a community leader, entrepreneur, and author. Annie's journey from the Philippines to Canada, and her dedication to her community and family, reflect her resilience and determination. She continues to inspire others through her work and motivational speaking.

Political Ambitions and Candidacy

Annie Chua-Frith has long been committed to public service and community advocacy, which has naturally led her to pursue a career in politics. Her political ambitions are driven by her desire to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all residents of Edmonton, particularly the Filipino community and other marginalized groups.

In 2024, Annie announced her candidacy for the nomination as the Member of Parliament for Edmonton Southeast under the Conservative Party of Canada (8). Her campaign focuses on key issues such as affordable housing, healthcare access, and support for small businesses. Annie believes in the importance of grassroots engagement and plans to work closely with community members to understand their needs and develop effective policies.

Annie's journey in politics began with her active involvement in community organizations and her leadership roles within the Filipino community. She has been a vocal advocate for cultural preservation, social justice, and economic empowerment. Her efforts to establish Mabuhay Park, Edmonton's first Filipino park, highlight her dedication to celebrating cultural diversity and fostering community unity.

Her nomination for the RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award and her recognition as a community leader further underscore her potential as a political candidate. Annie's resilience, leadership skills, and deep connection to the community make her a formidable contender in any political race. With her strong background and dedication, she aims to bring positive change and effective representation to Edmonton Southeast (3).

References

1. Philippine Arts Council, "Annie Chua-Frith Paglalayag Series," 2. Alberta Filipino Journal, "Annie Chua-Frith: Author and Community Leader," 3. Daveberta, "Profiles of Community Leaders in Edmonton," 4. RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award** 5. June Philippine Heritage Month, 6. Mabuhay Park, Celebrating Diversity in the Meadows, 7. Domestically Yours; A Caregiver's Inspiring Journey, 8. Filipino-Canadian Running for Politics