Filipinos have for many years been an integral part of Whistler, contributing to the social fabric of the community in innumerable ways. And yet, for a variety of reasons, the Whistler Multicultural Society categorizes them as part of the resort’s so-called “invisible immigrant” class.
Enter Barangay Sea to Sky.
In this episode of The Whistler Podcast, we sit down with Hannyliz Villafuerte, an entrepreneur, community organizer, and founder of Barangay Sea to Sky, Whistler’s first registered Filipino society, which promotes representation, inclusivity, and Pinoy culture across the corridor.
Originally from the Filipino island of Siquijor, Hannyliz shares her journey, from earning a law degree to building a multi-faceted life in Whistler as the CEO of retailer Tinda2x, a beauty consultant, an event producer, and a former banquet captain at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler.
We explore Pinoy values like Bayanihan (community spirit), how local Filipinos stay connected to their roots through things like Balikbayan boxes, and how the community is processing the recent Lapu-Lapu Festival tragedy with compassion and strength.
Listen now:
Host: Jack Crompton, Brandon Barrett
Guest: Hannyliz Villafuerte
Links/More Information
Sea to Sky Filipino community form new society – Pique Newsmagazine
Whistler to celebrate its first-ever Philippines Independence Day – Pique Newsmagazine
These are the 11 victims of the Lapu-Lapu Day festival tragedy in Vancouver | CBC News
Acknowledgements
The Resort Municipality of Whistler is grateful to be on the shared, unceded territory of the Lil’wat People, known in their language as L̓il̓wat7úl, and the Squamish People, known in their language as Sḵwx̱wú7mesh. We respect and commit to a deep consideration of their history, culture, stewardship and voice.
This podcast was recorded in the Sound Booth at the Whistler Public Library’s Wonder Lab.
