AFAS update 2021
Published: 19 February 2021
On Saturday night, 13th February, with the stunning view of the Brisbane city skyline before us, over 120 people gathered for the La Forza evening of music. It was a wonderful community event, and the highlight amongst the soaring voices and lovely wine, was the stories of the Augustinian communities in the Philippines who are supported by the Villanova community through our AFAS and AFAS elders groups. Thanks to the organisers, Mr Tony Hindmarsh, AFAS Director and Greg Cooley (OldBoy1978).
In particular, Mrs Juanita Jacobs (AFAS coordinator in VNC) spoke passionately about our connections with the people living on the island of Kinatarcan, Cebu who experienced a devastating typhoon in recent years. The island is currently COVID free, but there are risks brought about by the necessary travel of the midwife returning to the mainland to sterilise medical equipment a couple of times each week. The response of those gathered was to make donations so that AFAS can provide this community with a steriliser. It is a wonderful example of how together we can make a difference. What was tangible amongst those gathered was the solidarity and strength of the friendships formed across time with our partner groups in the Philippines.
Clearly this is passed onto our students as well, and in the background four students served tirelessly across the evening to make sure that all went smoothly. A heartfelt thanks to Isaac Langford, Harry Corrigan, Xavier Simondson and Ryan Hegerty for generously serving and assisting in creating a great evening. (by Kate Garrone, Dean of Mission and Identity)
