Key Points
- Violi Calvert arrived in Australia in 1974 at just 25, armed with a Cum Laude teaching degree from the Philippines. A retired public servant, journalist, and broadcaster, she furthered her studies at UTS, Flinders, and Western Sydney. Today, she continues to make an impact as an active leader in Australia’s Filipino community.
- Lee Meekan, a widow and former banker from the Philippines, came to Australia in 1986 to support her two children. She went on to study migration, property valuation, and real estate, building a brighter future and making a lasting impact.
- According to the 2021 Census by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, an estimated 408,842 people in Australia are of Filipino ancestry.
Retired but not done giving back, Violi Calvert and Lee Meekan volunteer in Sydney’s Filipino community, inspiring others and showcasing the beauty of Filipino culture in the land that welcomed them.
My greatest achievement is coming to Australia and helping my family now, all 75 of us are here. We never forget our roots, always help those in need, and I am grateful to Australia for giving us this opportunity.Violi Calvert, Filipino-Australian from Nueva Ecija
Violi Calvert receiving recognition on behalf of the team for Radio Tagumpay’s 11 years of service to the community as volunteers for the Filipino-Australian radio program. Credit: Violi Calvert Facebook
Violi Calvert and her husband John cherish making memories together, both at events in Sydney and on holidays abroad. Violi credits John’s kind heart and one-of-a-kind love, not just for his own family, but for hers as well. Credit : Violi Calvert
I don’t want anyone to be alone. I’ve helped 21 relatives and friends build better lives in Australia, because life isn’t just about you, it’s about sharing your blessings and making a difference while you’re alive.Lee Meekan, Filipino-Australian from Abra
[3rd from the L] Even in retirement, Lee Meekan continues to volunteer in the Sydney Filipino community. Not only does it help others, but it also gives her strength and purpose in life. Credit: Lee Meekan Facebook
[Left in blue] Lee Meekan believes that life isn’t just about yourself. That’s why she continues to serve the community and her family, having helped 21 relatives and friends build better lives in Australia while sharing her blessings and making a difference. Credit: Lee Meekan Facebook
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