Gemeinsam mit unseren Programmgästen gestaltet SENTRO das Common Diversities Fest der Vielfalt als einen Ort der Begegnung, des Dialogs und des gemeinsamen Lernens. Wir danken allen, die ihre Perspektiven, Erfahrungen, Kreativität und ihr Engagement mit uns teilen und so Vielfalt in all ihren Facetten sichtbar und erlebbar machen. Lassen Sie sich inspirieren, kommen Sie ins Gespräch und werden Sie Teil dieses gemeinsamen Miteinanders.
Together with our featured guests, SENTRO shapes the Common Diversities Festival as a space for connection, dialogue, and shared learning. We warmly thank everyone who shares their perspectives, experiences, creativity, and commitment with us, helping make diversity visible and meaningful in all its richness. We invite you to engage, be inspired, and become part of this collective experience.
Nancy Agbon
Nancy is a known live rock singer based in Vienna. Her musical range includes Original Pilipino Music ballads as well as choral repertoire. More details about her artistic background can be found in the description of Our Lady of Sacred Sorrows.
Gillian Frances Agbon Punzalan
Gillian is ten years old. She began to perceive and engage with music at the age of two. From 2018 to 2020, she sang in the Filipino Catholic Children’s Choir. Since 2023 she has been a member of the Junger Mozartchor Wien — an internationally recognized children and youth’s choir known for its tours across Europe, Asia, and South America and for collaborations with world‑class orchestras such as the Vienna Philharmonic. She also plays the guitar.
Gilyn Annadel Agbon Punzalan
Gilyn began singing at the age of two and has since developed her musical skills as both a vocalist and bassist. From 2010 to 2014, she trained at the Dietrichgasse Music School. Between 2015 and 2020, she played guitar for the Filipino Catholic Children’s Choir. She performs as a wedding singer and soloist for special events.
Dr. Camilo C. Antonio
Camilo is a Philippine-born naturalized Austrian who sees himself as “flipped euraustrian”: cultural activist driven by trickle-up engagement, writing, and publishing poetry/essays on book/film/theater reviews. Jointly with his lifetime partner, Franz Karl Prüller, founded and facilitates UrbanNomadMixes, a Vienna-based floating alliance of performance artists and creative activists. Left Manila in 1967 on a Rotary International Foundation Fellowship, received an MA; and then a doctoral fellowship at Georgetown University with which he did fieldwork in Latin America. Got involved with NGOs mediating human rights that led to a job at the IAEA in Vienna. Moving to UNIDO, managed technical cooperation programs, and directed the Asia Bureau. Subsequently curated a CARICOM program for filmmakers in the Caribbean diaspora; chaired the jury of the Caribbean Tales International Film Festival and spearheaded Roma social inclusion projects as well as advised academic fellows on migration/diaspora projects for the ERSTE Foundation. He holds a Ph.D., an Honorary Citizenship from the Mayor of Boulder, Colorado in 1968; and the Philippine Presidential 2000 Pamana Award for Outstanding Filipinos Abroad.
Raphael Rey Bacolod
Raphael ist Director für Indonesien und die Philippinen bei der Austrian Business Agency (ABA) – WORK in AUSTRIA. In seiner Funktion unterstützt er Fachkräfte und Unternehmen bei der Vernetzung zwischen Österreich und Südostasien.
Er verfügt über einen Masterabschluss in East Asian Business und absolviert derzeit ein Masterstudium in ASEAN Studies an der University of the Philippines Open University. Darüber hinaus bringt er Berufserfahrung in den Bereichen Business Development und Vertrieb im Asien-Pazifik-Raum mit.
Seine Großmutter und seine Mutter wanderten in den 1970er Jahren von den Philippinen nach Österreich aus. Die Geschichte seiner Familie prägt seine Verbindung zu den Philippinen und zur philippinischen Diaspora.
Die Austrian Business Agency (ABA) ist eine Tochtergesellschaft des Bundesministeriums für Wirtschaft, Energie und Tourismus (BMWET) sowie die offizielle Standortagentur der Republik Österreich.
Helena Bartels
Helena hat deutsch-philippinische Wurzeln, lebt in Berlin und arbeitet als klinische Psychologin in der internationalen Entwicklungszusammenarbeit. Beruflich sowie persönlich beschäftigt sie sich mit Fragen von Identität, professioneller Entwicklung und damit, wie gesellschaftliche und kulturelle Kontexte prägen, wer wir sind. Besonders interessiert sie, was Menschen in helfenden Berufen brauchen, um selbst Raum für Reflexion, Unterstützung und Fürsorge zu finden. In ihren Workshops schafft sie Räume, in denen Menschen einander begegnen, voneinander lernen und gemeinsam neue Perspektiven entwickeln können.“
Her Excellency Evangelina Lourdes A. Bernas
Ambassador Bernas is the Philippine Ambassador to the Republic of Austria since 2023, with concurrent jurisdiction over the Republic of Croatia, the Republic of Slovenia, and the Slovak Republic. She is also the Permanent Representative to the United Nations and other international organizations in Vienna.
She was previously Chair of the Board of Trustees of the National Museum of the Philippines (2018-2022), and President and Chair of the Congressional Spouses Foundation.
She was Head of Policy of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)’s Coral Triangle international team that assisted the six governments involved in the Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries, and Food Security in the formation of their multilateral partnership to manage the Coral Triangle. Prior to this, she worked on regional technology and business policy for eleven years, particularly in ASEAN and APEC. She was also Director for Strategic Development of the Foundation for IT Education and Development, which trained public high school teachers and principals in the Philippines in the use of appropriate information technology and the Internet for teaching and learning.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Management Economics from Ateneo de Manila University, and a Master of Science in Foreign Service from Georgetown University in Washington, DC, USA. She is married with one surviving child.
Ralph Chan
Ralph Chan ist ausgebildeter Soziologe der Universität Wien und widmet sich in seiner Forschung sowie aus persönlichem Interesse den Themen „Philippinen, Filipinos und die philippinische Gemeinschaft in Österreich“. Dieses Interesse entstand aus seiner Suche nach der eigenen Identität und dem Wunsch, seine Lebensgeschichte besser zu verstehen. Von klein auf bewegte er sich zwischen Welten: der österreichischen und der philippinischen, der europäischen und der asiatischen.
Ralph fand Zugang zu seiner eigenen Identität, indem er über seine Erfahrungen schrieb und reflektierte, die stark von sozialen, politischen und kulturellen Entwicklungen geprägt sind. Er versteht sich selbst als Filipino, der in Österreich geboren und aufgewachsen ist, zugleich aber eine starke Verbindung zur philippinischen Kultur und zu den Philippinen pflegt.
Er war Moderator der Webinar-Reihe und des Podcasts „Euro-Pinoy Talk“ von SENTRO, ist Mitherausgeber der Anthologien Common Diversities: Junge Filipin@s im deutschsprachigen Raum und Common Diversities 2: Filipino Europeans Remaking the Past, Shaping the Future, und Country Editor für Österreich beim ältesten und am längsten bestehenden euro-philippinischen Online-Magazin „Roots&Wings“. Zudem war Ralph einer der Mitbegründer des Halo-Halo-Netzwerks.
Ana Maria Cruz Langer
Ana Maria, affectionately known as “Minnie,” is a passionate advocate for Filipino culture and community engagement in Austria and across Europe. She serves as Auditor and Cultural Director of the European Network of Filipino Diaspora Austria (ENFiD-Austria) and is a Founding Member and Adviser of the Vienna International Centre Club Filipino (VIC CF).
At this year’s festival, she will showcase her collection of Filipiniana and indigenous Filipino attire, highlighting the richness, diversity, and craftsmanship of the Philippines’ cultural traditions.
A driving force behind Folklorico Filipino Austria, Minnie has dedicated herself to preserving, promoting, and celebrating Filipino heritage through traditional dance, music, and cultural education. As a strong advocate for cultural diplomacy, she believes in the power of the arts to build bridges between communities and foster greater intercultural understanding.
Sarah May Feliciano Stangl
Sarah May verfügt über mehr als zwei Jahrzehnte Berufserfahrung in unterschiedlichen Wirtschaftsbranchen und kennt die Anforderungen des Gesundheitswesens, der Landwirtschaft, der Industrie sowie der Hotellerie aus langjähriger Praxis.
Die Geschichte der Arbeitsmigration zwischen den Philippinen und Österreich ist für sie auch eine persönliche. Ihre Mutter gehörte zu den ersten philippinischen Krankenschwestern, die in den 1970er Jahren nach Österreich kamen. Die Erfahrungen ihrer Familie mit Migration, Integration und den Herausforderungen im Gesundheitswesen prägen bis heute ihren Blick auf internationale Fachkräftezuwanderung.
Gemeinsam mit ihrer Familie und starken Partnern gründete sie die Agentur 24 Helfende Hände. Ihr Anliegen ist es, qualifizierte Fachkräfte und österreichische Arbeitgeber zusammenzubringen sowie Fachkräfte bei ihrem Weg nach Österreich zu begleiten.
Dabei verfolgt sie die Vision, Unternehmen nachhaltig mit passenden Fachkräften zu stärken und gleichzeitig Menschen neue berufliche Perspektiven zu eröffnen. Im Mittelpunkt stehen für sie nicht nur Qualifikationen und Fachkompetenz, sondern auch die Übereinstimmung von Werten, Unternehmenskultur und individuellen Potenzialen.
Daniel Garces
Daniel ist Heim- und Verwaltungsleiter bei Wie daham und verfügt über langjährige Erfahrung im Gesundheits- und Pflegewesen. Seine berufliche Laufbahn führte ihn vom Pflegeassistenten über die Tätigkeit als Diplomierter Gesundheits- und Krankenpfleger (DGKP) bis in leitende Funktionen der Langzeitpflege.
Derzeit absolviert er ein MBA-Studium im Bereich Health Care Management. Darüber hinaus verfügt er über Weiterbildungen im Pflegemanagement sowie eine Zertifizierung des European Ageing Network für Führungskräfte in Langzeitpflegeeinrichtungen.
Ein besonderes Anliegen ist ihm die nachhaltige und faire Integration internationaler Pflegefachkräfte. Als aktives Mitglied in verschiedenen philippinischen Organisationen im Gesundheitsbereich schlägt er die Brücke zwischen Kulturen und setzt sich dafür ein, neu ankommende Fachkräfte im Relocation-Prozess zu unterstützen sowie faire, zeitgemäße und wertschätzende Rahmenbedingungen in der Pflege zu fördern.
Als Sohn philippinischer Eltern bringt er zudem eine persönliche Perspektive auf die Themen Migration und Integration mit.
Christiane Gotz
Christiane ist Juristin und Rechtsberaterin mit Schwerpunkt auf Menschenrechten, Migrationsrecht und erneuerbaren Energien. In ihrer Arbeit beschäftigt sie sich mit rechtlichen und gesellschaftlichen Fragen an der Schnittstelle von Teilhabe, Chancengleichheit und Nachhaltigkeit.
Als Tochter einer philippinischen Mutter und eines österreichischen Vaters bringt sie eine persönliche Perspektive auf Themen wie Identität, Zugehörigkeit und kulturelle Vielfalt mit.
In ihrem Beitrag zum ersten Band von Common Diversities setzt sie sich mit den Erfahrungen der philippinischen Community im Umgang mit Rassismus, Diskriminierung und Anti-Asian Hate auseinander. Dabei beleuchtet sie die Herausforderungen, aber auch die Strategien von Einzelpersonen und Gemeinschaften, diesen Erfahrungen zu begegnen.
Christiane ist Co-Moderatorin des Festivalprogramms und führt auf Deutsch durch die Veranstaltung.
Susanne Songi Griem
Susanne ist im Ruhrgebiet in Deutschland geboren und aufgewachsen, sie lebt und arbeitet in Wien. Die deutsch-koreanische Künstlerin und Pädagogin entwickelt Arbeiten in den Bereichen Performancekunst, Kunstvermittlung und Bildung.
Alyssa „Mayari“ Gruezo
Mayari (she/they) is a Bicolana-Batangueña ceramic teaching artist, event producer, culinary artist, and engineer rooted on Ohlone Land. As a daughter of Filipino immigrants, her work explores belonging, cultural memory, ancestral connection, and relationship to land. Through clay, food, ritual, and community-centered gatherings, Mayari uplifts themes of reproductive healing, ecological awareness, collective liberation, and food sovereignty.
Her clay practice began through Redbrick Ceramic Studio’s BIPOC Residency in 2020 and continued while serving as Studio Manager at Artillery Ceramics Art Gallery in 2021. With a background in Materials Engineering, Mayari brings an interest in biomaterials, sustainable design, and natural processes into her creative work. In 2022, she began offering pop-up Palayok pottery workshops for the Filipino diaspora in collaboration with Filipino-owned small businesses across the Bay Area.
In 2024, Mayari deepened her practice in the Philippines, connecting with Lokal Lab’s farming education community, teaching workshops through a self-directed residency with Siargao Craft Studio, and studying traditional Philippine building techniques with Ifugao-based artist Ala Luglug. Working with foraged clay became a way to reconnect with land, memory, and ancestral practice.
She continued in 2025 leading immersive clay cohorts that integrate ritual, nature, and ancestral handbuilding techniques, including her four-week series “the earth speaks, may we learn to listen.” She also participated in Pie Ranch’s Artist in Residence program, where she foraged local clay, pit-fired vessels, and presented work in a community art show.
Through this earth work, her current inspirations root from observing ecosystems and the way they reflect interdependence in our communities. Mayari’s vast breadth of experience uniquely positions her to create meaningful art and impactful community spaces that uplift cultural memory, deepen relationships to land, and cultivate healing within and across communities.
Annette Hug
Annette ist 1970 geboren. Sie hat in Zürich Geschichte und in Manila «Women and Development Studies» studiert. Nach Tätigkeiten als Dozentin und Gewerkschaftssekretärin lebt sie seit Januar 2015 als freie Autorin. Seit 2008 sind vier Romane von ihr erschienen, für «Wilhelm Tell in Manila» (2016) wurde sie mit einem Schweizer Literaturpreis ausgezeichnet. Seit 2024 veröffentlicht sie Übersetzungen von Filipino (Tagalog) ins Deutsche, so die Romane «Das Meer der Aswang» von Allan N. Derain und «Die 70er» von Lualhati Bautista. Hug ist Ko-Präsidentin des Vereins Studiyo Filipino.
Simon Inou
Inou ist Journalist, Aktivist und Gründer von M-Media, Verein zur Förderung interkultureller Medienarbiet, Afrikanet und blackaustria.info, sowie Organisator der Österreichischen Antirassismus.Tage.
Minitta Kandlbauer
Minitta is a community advocate committed to promoting diversity, representation, and intercultural understanding. She is actively involved in initiatives supporting Austria’s BIPoC community and serves as Chair of Zwischen den Zeilen – Institute for Literary Diversity and Critical Thinking, where she organizes workshops, educational programs, and spaces for dialogue that foster literary diversity, anti-racist perspectives, and non-discriminatory language.
Her commitment to amplifying diverse voices is reflected in her publications. Most recently, she co-authored the interactive children’s non-fiction book Wer sagt dir, was normal ist?, which encourages young readers to question assumptions, embrace different perspectives, and think critically about social norms. She also co-published the anti-racism handbook War das jetzt rassistisch? – Antirassismus-Tipps für den Alltag and collaborated on Gute Nachrichten aus aller Welt, a children’s non-fiction book that shares inspiring stories from 30 countries and highlights perspectives often overlooked in mainstream media.
Born and raised in Vienna, Minitta is a trained photographer, writer, and book designer. Drawing on her multicultural upbringing, she is passionate about capturing diversity and highlighting marginalized groups through her work. As a commercial, portrait, and event photographer, she combines creative storytelling with social engagement, creating authentic images that celebrate people, identity, and belonging.
Harold Khan
A Filipino–Singaporean visual artist, Khan’s work integrates cultural memory, popular iconography, and feminist themes through a vivid, illustrative style. Rooted in the visual languages of manga, vintage poster art, and contemporary design, his paintings create a bold interplay of color, narrative, and identity.
Educated in Advertising Arts at the University of Santo Tomas, Khan began his creative journey as an illustrator before evolving into a painter whose work now traverses international art circuits.
Currently based in Vienna, Khan continues to explore diasporic themes and feminine archetypes in his studio practice, bridging Southeast Asian visual culture with European contemporary aesthetics. His work is a study in hybridity—deeply personal, visually immediate, and powerfully resonant.
Silke Lapina
Silke is a visual artist working with objects, symbols, and language in relation to ritual and contemporary spiritual practice. Across installation, photography, and text-based spatial works, she brings together religious references and everyday forms, drawing on her German-Filipino background.
Her process is rooted in repetition, writing, and contemplative practice, shaped by long-term meditation and monastic stays.
Lapina holds a B.A. in Culture and Social Anthropology from the University of Vienna and an M.A. in Religion and Culture from Humboldt University Berlin.
She is a recipient of the Ateneo Art Awards – Fernando Zóbel Prize for Visual Art (2025). She completed a residency at Project Space Pilipinas (2026) and will continue her work there, followed by a residency at La Trobe Art Institute (2027).
Romeo Molina
Romeo better known as Romy lives by the motto, „Retired, but not tired.“ Today, he and his wife, Aida, remain actively engaged as volunteer facilitators and mentors, promoting faith, marriage, and family life within the international community.
In Austria, he was actively involved in Filipino civic, cultural, and religious initiatives. In the Philippines, he participated in local civic and political affairs.
Professionally, he retired from an international organization, where he served as a manager of an international development agency. He also worked with Indochinese refugees, teaching ESL and providing cultural orientation.
Christian Namiss
Christian Namiss engagiert sich seit vielen Jahren ehrenamtlich im SENTRO. Als aktiver Mitgestalter zahlreicher kultureller und wissenschaftlicher Projekte setzt er sich dafür ein, die Vielfalt und die Beiträge philippinischer Migrantinnen und Migranten in der deutschsprachigen Gesellschaft sichtbar zu machen. Darüber hinaus war er Mitautor des Buchkapitels„Mama, lass uns Tagalog sprechen! Die Sprachen der Eltern und die Identitäten der Kinder“ in Common Diversities: Junge Filipin@s im deutschsprachigen Raum.
Der 1970 in Dresden geborene Diplomingenieur für Luftfahrt und Logistik wurde von der philippinischen Gemeinschaft in Wien herzlich „adoptiert“ und ist heute eine geschätzte Brückenfigur zwischen österreichischer und philippinischer Kultur.
Beruflich ist Christian als Projekt- und Eventmanager tätig.
Our Lady of Sorrows Singers
The Our Lady of Sorrows Singers (OLSS) is an all-women choir formed in 2021. The group began serving with five members before receiving its official name on September 15, 2021, the Feast Day of Our Lady of Sorrows, upon the suggestion of Fr. Ely Dalanon, the beloved chaplain of the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy.
OLSS is dedicated to glorifying God through music and service to the community. With faith, commitment, and harmony, the choir continues to share its ministry through sacred song. Today, OLSS is blessed with eight dedicated choristers.
Nancy Agbon / Choirmaster / Soprano
Nancy once dreamed of becoming a classical singer performing on stage, but her musical journey led her to a deeper calling: serving God and the community through sacred music. Her early musical formation includes the St. Thomas Vocal Ensemble of Saint Thomas Academy and the Performing Artists’ Guild of San Pablo Colleges. She later served as choirmaster of the Followers of the Good Shepherd Choir and continues to lead OLSS with dedication, faith, and love for music ministry.
Tonet Basilio / Soprano
Tonet began her choral ministry with the Our Lady of Manaoag Choir in September 2021, where she discovered a deeper calling to worship and glorify God through song. As her faith and love for sacred music grew, she joined OLSS in November 2024. Through both choirs, she continues to serve with humility, dedication, and a joyful heart.
Cristina Famarin / Soprano
Cristina’s journey in choir ministry began unexpectedly when she was invited to join the Followers of the Good Shepherd Choir before her retirement as an emergency room nurse. Her immediate “yes” became the beginning of a meaningful path of service through music. She later served as a Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy Cantor and continues to proclaim God’s glory with joy and gratitude through OLSS and the Our Lady of Manaoag Choir.
Kring Kaufmann / Soprano
Kring began her choral ministry with the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy Choir, where she served from 1990 to 2003. For her, the choir pews became a second family, inspiring her to use her gift in service of the community. She has been a member of OLSS since 2023 and the Our Lady of Manaoag Choir since 2025, continuing to sing with gratitude, commitment, and faith.
Sheila Lucero / Soprano
Sheila has loved music since childhood and joyfully joined OLSS in July 2022. She finds deep fulfillment in rehearsals and in serving God through the music ministry, offering each hymn in thanksgiving for His guidance and blessings. In October 2024, she also joined the Sanghimig Choristers, further deepening her spirituality and commitment to sacred music.
Cheryl Mercado / Alto
Cheryl, a retired oncology nurse, has loved singing since childhood, beginning with school singing competitions and continuing through various choirs. Her musical background includes the UST College of Nursing Choir, Flats and Sharp Inter-Collegiate Choir, and the UST Action Singers. In Vienna, she served with the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy Choir as a choir member and psalmist, and performed in concerts in Barcelona, Cannes, Nice, Ottobrunn, and Linz.
Des Nava / Soprano
Des has always loved singing, and becoming part of a choir happened unexpectedly. What began by chance has become a meaningful journey of music, faith, and community. She has been a member of the Our Lady of Manaoag Choir since December 2023 and joined OLSS in April 2025, where she continues to grow in service, friendship, and love for music.
Sue Reinthaler / Soprano
Sue’s singing experience began in high school through song and dance interpretation and continued in college, where she represented her department in an inter-Catholic choir competition. She later sang with the Philippine AXA Life Choir from 2000 to 2005. With her warm and friendly spirit, she joined OLSS in October 2023 and continues to share her God-given talent in service.
Song to Be Performed: “Paraiso”
Words and Music: Ryan Cayabyab
Original Performer: Smokey Mountain
Album: Paraiso, 1991
“Paraiso” is a deeply moving song that reflects on poverty, environmental neglect, and the longing for a more compassionate world. Using the image of “paradise” with poignant irony, the song calls for empathy, social awareness, and care for creation. Through this performance, the Our Lady of Sorrows Singers offer “Paraiso” as a prayerful reminder of our shared responsibility to protect human dignity and the world entrusted to us.
Melissa Peritore
Melissa (b. 1984, Busto Arsizio, Italy) is a Filipino-Italian photographer currently based in Vienna, Austria. She graduated in photography from the Bauer Institute in Milan (2007) and works with both digital and analogue photography, as well as collages.
Through her research, she examines cultural perceptions while challenging Eurocentric views of time and culture. Her work invites viewers to question their gaze, confronting cultural intersections in an ever-evolving world.
Philippinische Gottesdienst Gemeinde Cherubim
The Philippinische Gottesdienst Gemeinde Cherubim is a joyful children’s choir based in Vienna. Under the guidance of their dedicated trainer, Kay Bigyan, the children use their voices to share God’s love, inspire hope, and celebrate the beauty of Filipino culture.
Kay Bigyan / Choirmaster
Regina Kassandra Bigyan
Samantha Jade Burke
Jessica Casano
Sarah Veronica Casano
Bela Frances Damo
Francine Damo
Valerie Damo
Princess Ashley Diones
Chloe Lalunio
Ruby Rose Melote
Sebastian Daniel Melote
Rubert Jeiron Palang
Jaimee Rose Palang
Cassandra Rae Pepino
Cyres Pearl Pepino
Carla Louise Pepino
Jathniel Marden Sarmiento
Aviel-Renzo Sudaria
Maria Zelda Magistrado Rojas
Maria Zelda, better known as Marizel, is actively engaged in strengthening connections among Filipino communities across Europe and fostering dialogue between the Filipino diaspora, Austrian society, and the international community. As Founder and Chair of ENFiD-Austria, and Adviser to the European Network of Filipino Diasora, she supports initiatives in education, environmental stewardship, youth empowerment, arts, and culture, working with Filipino communities across 13 European countries. Through these efforts, she continues to promote the spirit of bayanihan through collaboration, cultural exchange, and community service.
In 2026, she was a speaker at the Filipino Diaspora Summit in Manila and spearheaded the Pamana V Philippine Festivals Parade and Cultural Extravaganza, showcasing the contributions of the Filipino diaspora and promoting Philippine culture in Europe.
In recognition of her community leadership, she was named one of the Most Influential Women in the World by the Filipina Women’s Network in 2019. She also serves in leadership and advisory roles in several community and international organizations, including the United Nations Women’s Guild, the United Nations Correspondents Association Vienna, Bikol Society Austria, and the Vienna International Centre Club Filipino, and is a member of European Police Association.
Professionally, Marizel is a longtime international staff member of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) in Vienna.
SangHimig Choristers
SangHimig Choristers is a mixed Filipino choir based in Austria, founded in 2024 under the musical direction of Deborah Tschirch. Bringing together dedicated singers from diverse backgrounds, the choir is united by a shared passion for sacred music, cultural expression, and service through song.
Rooted in faith and fellowship, SangHimig Choristers is committed to glorifying God through choral excellence. Its repertoire spans sacred, contemporary, and Filipino choral works, reflecting the choir’s deep spiritual devotion and rich cultural heritage.
Deborah Tschirch / Founder and Choir Director / Soprano
Deborah has more than 30 years of experience in choral music as a singer, choir director, and music ministry leader. Her musical journey began in Manila, Philippines, with the One Voice Choir (1995–2003), where she received her early choral training under Filipino organist, liturgical composer, and conductor Mr. Alejandro Consolacion II.
In 1999, she pursued studies in Liturgical Music at San Carlos Seminary, Archdiocese of Manila, under Fr. Nilo Mangusad and Fr. Genaro O. Diwa, then Director of the Archdiocesan Liturgical Commission. She later joined the Serenata Ensemble (1999–2003) under Mr. Allan Puno, an alumnus of the Philippine Madrigal Singers. With the ensemble, she performed at the Madz et al Choral Festival (1999) at the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Tribute to Cardinal Sin Concert (2003) at Manila Cathedral.
Her leadership in choral music began early. From 2000 to 2001, she served as Choir Director of the San Isidro Parish School Children’s Choir and Assistant Music Head of San Isidro Parish Church in Pasay City.
During her years in Dubai, U.A.E., she was a member and later Choir Director of the Immaculate Conception Praesidium Choir of the Legion of Mary (2006–2012). She also conducted employee singing groups at the Sheraton Creek Hotel (2007–2009) and The Westin Dubai (2010).
After settling in Vienna, Austria, Deborah founded and directed Koro Santa Cecilia (2015–2024) and served as Choir Head of the Philippinische Gottesdienst Gemeinde (PGG) Music Ministry (2021–2024). She remains active in PGG and continues to support music ministry and the Filipino community. In 2023, she joined Freie Kunst Chor under Russian conductor Mr. Alexey Mikhaylenko and performed at Vienna’s historic Ehrbar Saal. In 2024, she founded the SangHimig Choristers, where she continues to serve as Choir Director.
Over the years, Deborah has participated as both singer and conductor in various church, cultural, and community events in Vienna. Her collaborations and performances include Lange Nacht der Kirchen (2019 and 2024), the Korean Choir Festival (2023), KUBÖ Festival (2023), Sentro’s Summer Workshop (2024), benefit concerts, and other cultural events.
For Deborah, music is more than an art form. It is a meaningful way to serve God and the community, bring people together, share the joy of music, and celebrate her Filipino heritage.
Arnel Alvar / Baritone
Arnel’s choral journey in Vienna began in 1998 with the Filipino Chaplaincy Choir, where he sang until 2002 under the direction of the late Mag. art. Aries Caces, a Filipino-Austrian concert pianist, conductor, and educator.
After several years away from choir singing, he joined Koro Santa Cecilia in 2016 and remained with the group until 2024. Since then, he has continued his musical journey with the SangHimig Choristers under the direction of Ms. Deborah Beltran-Tschirch.
For Arnel, choir singing is more than music. It is a meaningful way to build friendships, appreciate diversity, work together in fellowship, and serve God and the community.
Coleta Corales / Alto
For Coleth, singing has always been deeply connected to faith, service, and community. Through the years, choir life has given her opportunities to grow musically while sharing her time and talent with the Church and the Filipino community.
She sang with the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy Choir under Fr. Bong Alejo from 2010 to 2016 and was also part of Vox Amoris Choir from 2013 to 2015. From 2019 to 2024, she continued her musical journey with Koro Santa Cecilia, performing at the Korean Choir Festival and KUBÖ Festival in 2023, and Lange Nacht der Kirchen in 2024.
In 2024, she joined the SangHimig Choristers, where she continues to serve through music. She also participated in the Philippinische Gottesdienst Gemeinde (PGG) 25th Anniversary Thanksgiving Choir Concert in 2025.
Through the years, choir life has taught her the value of commitment, teamwork, fellowship, and dedication. More importantly, it has strengthened her belief that music can be a meaningful way to serve God, support the community, and share faith with others.
Pascual Corales / Baritone
Pascual has been involved in choral music for many years, sharing much of this journey with his wife, Coleth. Together, they served in several choir communities, including the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy Choir under Fr. Bong Alejo (2010–2016), Vox Amoris Choir (2013–2015), and Koro Santa Cecilia (2019–2024).
With Koro Santa Cecilia, Pascual participated in the Korean Choir Festival and KUBÖ Festival in 2023, as well as Lange Nacht der Kirchen in 2024. Since 2024, he has continued singing with the SangHimig Choristers alongside his wife. He also took part in the PGG 25th Anniversary Thanksgiving Choir Concert in 2025.
Through these experiences, Pascual has deepened his appreciation for music, fellowship, and teamwork. Above all, he values using his voice to serve God and the community.
Ralph De Ocampo / Tenor / Baritone
Ralph has a rich choral background that began with the University of the Philippines Music Circle (UPMC) from 1997 to 2002. His musical journey later continued abroad with Saint Mary’s Roman Catholic Cathedral Choir in Edinburgh, Scotland, and Heart Chor in Vienna.
In Vienna, he became active in church-based choirs and music ministries, including Allerheiligen Chor and the Marriage Spirituality–Holy Family Community Choir, both under the direction of Mr. Andrew Buenaventura. He later joined Koro Santa Cecilia from 2023 to 2024, participating in the KUBÖ Festival 2023, and has continued singing with the SangHimig Choristers since 2024. He has also taken part in various Philippinische Gottesdienst Gemeinde (PGG) Choir Concerts.
With more than two decades of experience across different choirs and communities, Ralph has developed a strong appreciation for music, fellowship, discipline, and collaboration. Yet his purpose for continuing to sing remains simple and faith-centered: to offer his voice and serve the Lord according to His will.
Sheila Lucero / Soprano
Sheila’s love for music began in childhood. In July 2022, she joyfully joined the Our Lady of Sorrows Singers Choir, where rehearsals and music ministry became a source of gratitude, faith, and fulfillment. For her, singing is a way to thank God for His loving guidance and many blessings.
In October 2024, she also joined the SangHimig Choristers. Being part of these choirs has deepened her spirituality and given her a renewed sense of purpose. With a grateful heart, she offers every hymn for God’s greater glory and hopes her journey may inspire others to serve the Lord through music.
Cheryl Mercado / Alto
Cheryl is a retired oncological nurse and one of the altos in the ensemble. Her love for singing began in grade school through competitions and continued through her high school and college glee clubs, the UST College of Nursing Choir, Flats and Sharp, and the UST Action Singers.
Her choral journey in Vienna began in 1982 in a small nursing home chapel. She later joined the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy Choir under Fr. Bong Alejo and Fr. Dong Estafia, participating in concerts in Barcelona, Cannes, Nice, Ottobrunn, and Linz. She also served as a psalmist and member of the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy Cantors Choir.
Since 2021, she has sung with the Our Lady of Sorrows Choir under Ms. Nancy Agbon, and since 2024 with the SangHimig Choristers under Ms. Deborah Tschirch. For Cheryl, music ministry is a heartfelt way to serve the Lord and share her passion for choral singing with the community.
Eden Montalbo / Alto
Eden Montalbo’s choral journey is rooted in faith and a desire to serve. She was a member of the Arnoldus Choir under Fr. Edwin Reyes, where she had the opportunity to serve through music and fellowship.
In January 2026, she joined the SangHimig Choristers together with her husband, Felix. Being part of the choir allows her to continue sharing her voice while growing in faith and community.
Eden sees her voice as a gift from God and singing as a meaningful way to give back to Him, share His love,support the community and bring joy and inspiration to others through music.
Felixberto Montalbo / Baritone
Felix’s love for singing began in high school, where he was a member of his school’s Glee Club. He continued singing in college, gaining experience that deepened his appreciation for music, teamwork, and faith.
He later joined the Arnoldus Choir under Fr. Edwin Reyes, where he had another meaningful opportunity to serve through music. In January 2026, he joined the SangHimig Choristers together with his wife, Eden.
For Felix, singing is more than a talent or hobby. It is a gift from God and a heartfelt way to serve the Church and community, share His love, and help bring others closer to Him through music.
Stephen Raymundo / Baritone
Stephen began his music ministry in 2004 with the Couples for Christ (CFC) Music Ministry under Ms. Tess Magno, serving until 2007. In 2015, he joined Koro Santa Cecilia, where he remained active until 2024.
During his years with Koro Santa Cecilia, he participated in various church and community events, including Lange Nacht der Kirchen, the Korean Choir Festival, KUBÖ Festival 2023, and PGG Choir Concerts. Since 2024, he has continued singing with the SangHimig Choristers and took part in the PGG Choir Concert in 2025.
Through choir life, Stephen has grown in music, commitment, cooperation, and fellowship. He continues to sing with a simple purpose: to use his voice in serving God and the community.
Maria Isabela Zavala / Soprano
Maria Isabel is a classically trained soprano who graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance from the University of the Philippines Diliman, where she studied under Prof. Ma. Cecilia Valena. She later continued her vocal training in Italy with soprano Maria Letizia Grosselli.
She has performed internationally and received the Gold Prize in Voice at the 2022 Sugree Charoensook International Music Competition in Thailand.
Currently based in Vienna, she continues her studies at the Friedrich Gulda Conservatory under Prof. Mathias Reinthaller and Lisa Koroleva. Her recent performances include the role of Marcelina in Le Nozze di Figaro at the Vienna Summer Festival, as well as appearances for the Philippine Embassy in Austria. She is currently a member of the Wiener Singakademie and has been part of the SangHimig Choristers since 2025.
Marlisa Strauss
Marlisa ist in Zürich aufgewachsen und hat philippinische, schweizerische und deutsche Wurzeln. Sie arbeitet als Psychologin, ist angehende Körperpsychotherapeutin und interessiert sich für dekoloniale Perspektiven. In ihrer Arbeit sowie persönlich setzt sie sich mit Fragen von Herkunft, Zugehörigkeit und damit auseinander, wie sich Lebenserfahrungen im Körper zeigen können. Sie schafft achtsame Räume, in denen Menschen sich begegnen, Verbindung erleben und Ressourcen entdecken können
2swaggy
The Common Diversities Festival Youth Dance Group
Formed in 2026, we are a dance group of friends aged 16 to 24 who share a passion for dancing and performing. We meet up, practice together, and push each other to improve while having fun. At Fest der Vielfalt, we want to bring our energy to the stage and show the audience a piece of Filipino culture through dance.
Anna Raffaella Buera / Lead
Devin Joe Baybayan
Adrian De Guzman
Beatrice Gail Faustino
Cayla Sharlene Litan
Erich Dominique Mahiya
Anthony Dave Padua
Zenia Janine Santos
Aivee Rhayne Sudaria
Sheena Marie Valdez
UrbanNomadMixes
UrbanNomadMixes is an organic floating “Ensemble” of performative artists and transcultural activists who jam and combine poetic and artistic forms ConVergingSessions for HumanyFestStations to open up creative public spaces of connectivity and solidarity.
Marina Wetzlmaier
Marina ist Journalistin in den Bereichen Print und Radio, unter anderem für das österreichische Kultur- und Informationsprogramm Österreich 1 des öffentlich‑rechtlichen Rundfunks (ORF). Darüber hinaus ist sie als Autorin tätig und hat zahlreiche Artikel veröffentlicht. Sie wuchs in der Stadt Wels in Oberösterreich als Tochter einer philippinischen Mutter und eines österreichischen Vaters auf. In ihrer beruflichen Tätigkeit legt sie besonderen Wert darauf, vielfältige Perspektiven abzubilden – vor allem jene, die nach ihrer Einschätzung im medialen Diskurs bislang unzureichend vertreten sind.
Stephanie Willi
Stephanie ist Historikerin und Archivarin. Sie hat an der Eidgenössischen Technischen Hochschule Zürich (ETH Zürich) ihren Master in Geschichte und Philosophie des Wissens gemacht. Ihre Masterarbeit schrieb sie über das Thema Weisssein auf den Philippinen.
Ausserdem ist sie Gründungsmitglied des Vereins Zürich Kolonial, der die kolonialen Verstrickungen der Stadt Zürich sichtbar machen möchte, und Teil des Vereins studiyo filipino, einer Plattform, die den interkulturellen Austausch zwischen der Schweiz und den Philippinen fördert.
Stephanie ist Tochter einer Filipina und eines Schweizers. Das Leben zwischen zwei Kulturen weckte ihr Interesse, sich intensiver mit den Philippinen auseinanderzusetzen. studiyo filipino gibt ihr die Möglichkeit, den Philippinen näherzukommen und die philippinische Community kennenzulernen.
Gialyn Yebron-Capate
Gia has been involved in SENTRO’s cultural and community initiatives since the inception of KUBŌ (Kultur Bayanihan Österreich), a project that celebrated Filipino heritage and identity in Austria. She continues this engagement by promoting intercultural dialogue and exchange across diverse migrant communities. As one of the authors of Common Diversities II: Filipino Europeans Remaking the Past, Shaping the Future, she reflects on identity, belonging, and the experiences of Filipinos navigating life across cultures. Her contribution reflects her belief that diversity is a source of strength and an opportunity for mutual understanding. She supports Filipino-led initiatives that celebrate culture, preserve heritage, and strengthen connections across generations and communities.
A lawyer, international civil servant, and development professional, she works in an international organization dedicated to sustainable development and poverty reduction. Originally from the Philippines and now based in Europe, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Research from the University of the Philippines, an LLB from the University of London, an LLM from The University of Law (UK), and a Master of Legal Studies in European Business Law from WU Vienna.
Gia is a co-host of the festival program, presenting in English and Tagalog.
Vina Yun
Vina ist freie Journalistin und Autorin in Wien. Sie schreibt unter anderem über (Post-)Migration, Antirassismus, Arbeit und Popkultur. 2017 erschien ihre Comicreihe „Homestories“ über die koreanische Arbeitsmigration nach Österreich und das Aufwachsen der „Zweiten Generation“ im Wien der 1970er- und 1980er-Jahre. @sailor.kimchi