Inspirational Talk, Conchita Pooten: 10th Igorot Cordillera BIMAAK Europe (ICBE) Consultation
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10th Igorot Cordillera BIMAAK Europe (ICBE) Consultation
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
July 26-29, 2019
Inspirational talk
Conchita Pooten
I spoke earlier today so I may be repeating myself here, so I do apologise if you’re hearing this for the second time!
Thank you to MABIKAs and my colleagues from the ICBE preparatory committee for another successful ICBE. From the very beginning we have been warmly invited and cared for throughout this conference. This has enabled us to enjoy our time with each other and learn from each other as well as meet new friends.
We congratulate the team’s inclusion and spotlight on Abra as part of this year’s theme. The talk and paper prepared by Christina was outstanding and we really got to learn more about our Tingguian brothers and sisters.
We also congratulate Myra, Yvonne and all contributors to a wonderful, professionally formatted Souvenir Book. By reading through it, you can see it’s a labour of love and a tribute to each and everyone’s dedicated passion and participation throughout the 17 years.
We also give thanks to our fellow delegates whose attendance and participation added depth to the camaraderie and further deepened existing relationships with each other.
Lastly, seeing my grandchildren and children enjoying the conference as much as I have is the best gift. I have lived to see the realisation that our dreams - to preserve the culture and pass it on to the next generation - has, truly, come true.
The challenge will always remain - how does ICBE survive - that the next generation faces increasing demands on their time and finances and so to the future of ICBE rests on those leaders willing to stay the course and as my dear friend Ric Cuyob said, “keep the fire burning”, but I leave this thought with the next generation. “Always do things unselfishly and sincerely — you will never go wrong!”
Long live ICBE and all Igorots (whether affiliated by an Igorot organisation or by individual), all over the world!