Obraa.org, "Empowering Asians in America" still continues to pursue its goal of strengthening the connection of Asian-Americans through culture and arts. Here is a glimpse of the past, present, and future of the organization, along with the hopes and dreams of the company.
History
Obra came from the Filipino term "master piece" or "Art". The idea was created around the year of 2004 by Mr. Nash Ang with Mr. Edwin Maestro as a consultant.The idea of creating the non-government organization started in the Philippines and expanded in Korea. Eventually, it reached America. However, there was already a similar named NGO in America which led to the reason why another A was added to the organization's name thus creating OBRAA.
Present State
As of today, the company continues to be concerned with all sorts of arts and its deeper context in lined with heritage and culture.Students from all around the Philippines have been involved in the empowering Asian minorities in America by joining the team as interns.
Future State
The organization mainly invisions and aspires to be a big or growing community in America, becoming part of the society to not only make a change but also bring hope to minorities.By doing this, individuals may be able to grasp culture more deeply. People might comprehend their own culture or, better yet, enjoy something outside of it: The accounts of the culture, history, way of life, and wellness of other people, particularly Asian Americans. In shorter terms, creating a deeper and better understanding culture beyond their own. Along with this the company hopes and further invisions to connect with international playback theater groups to address some arousing challenges.
Challenges
As a growing non-government organization there are always unavoidable challenges that are to be faced.The further expansion with projects beyond workshops, beyond lectures, and beyond what already has been done has become one of the challenges the company faces today.
Author's note:
Being part of the organization as an intern made me realize the beauty and the deeper context of art that was brought to or inspired because of culture.
Beyond the textbook meaning of the world culture, "way of life". Culture is more than the simplicity of that sentence.
Understanding it is power and seeing culture from others perspective is magical.
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Special thanks to Professor, Secretary, and Consultant of Obraa, Mr. Edwin T. Maestro for accepting an online interview and sharing his knowledge.
To read more about the interview and know more about cultural awareness, social inclusion, and other fundamentals of Obraa.Org visit: https://www.obraa.org/2022/07/cultural-awareness-as-foundation-of.html?m=1
Ellyssa van Schaijk is a digital marketing intern of PS Media Enterprise. She is a 3rd-year Bachelor of Arts in Communication student from Batangas State University-Arasof Nasugbu Campus, Philippines.
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