Canadian Senator Flordeliz ‘Gigi’ Osler, a trailblazer of Filipino descent, is on a mission to revolutionize perceptions about the Filipino community in Canada. Her aim? To shatter stereotypes and highlight the multifaceted talents and aspirations of Filipinos residing in her adoptive country.
During an exclusive gathering hosted by Canadian Ambassador David Hartman in Manila, Senator Osler emphasized her determination to redefine the narrative surrounding Filipinos in Canada. As the first female Canadian senator of Filipino heritage, she envisions a future where Canadians acknowledge and celebrate the diverse skills, expertise, and potential contributions that Filipinos bring to the forefront.
“We are more than the roles often ascribed to us. Beyond being nurses or migrant workers, we are a cohort of talented professionals, individuals with intellect, capable of remarkable achievements,” remarked Osler, a prominent surgeon based in Winnipeg, Canada.
Her impassioned stance resonates deeply, drawing from her personal journey as the daughter of immigrants from the Philippines and India. Osler, currently in Manila for an inter-parliamentarian forum, reminisced about her early connection with the Philippines, recalling her initial visit at the age of seven.
Influenced by her mother’s dedication as a medical practitioner, Osler charted a path from nursing to a distinguished career in surgery, inspired to challenge limitations and elevate aspirations within the Filipino-Canadian community.
Expressing optimism about the evolving ambitions of young Filipino-Canadians, Osler observed a shift towards broader dreams encompassing careers in law, medicine, entrepreneurship, and various professions. Her belief in the potential of the Philippines to showcase its capabilities to the world resonates with a fervent desire to inspire and nurture the aspirations of the youth, both in the homeland and in Canada.
Osler highlighted the escalating trend of Filipino migration to Canada, particularly within the healthcare sector, acknowledging the Philippines’ standing as a beacon for healthcare professionals. However, beyond the appreciation for Filipino healthcare workers, she stressed the imperative need for collaborative efforts between the Canadian and Philippine governments to bolster a sustainable healthcare infrastructure in the Philippines.
Emphasizing reciprocity, Osler stressed the significance of equipping Filipino healthcare professionals with comprehensive education, training, and ongoing professional development to fortify the healthcare landscape in their home country. Her vision encompasses fostering robust bilateral relationships, recognizing the intrinsic importance of the Philippines as a valued partner nation for Canada.
In Senator Osler’s impassioned pursuit, lies a narrative of empowerment, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to challenge preconceived notions. Her mission transcends boundaries, aiming to instigate a paradigm shift that celebrates the diverse tapestry of talents and potential within the Filipino diaspora, a legacy that extends far beyond political boundaries.