In a powerful initiative aimed at strengthening family bonds and supporting child development, the Philippine Business Council – Abu Dhabi (PBC-AD) has launched a dynamic symposium series designed to equip parents with the essential tools and knowledge to raise resilient, emotionally strong, and well-balanced children. The series, which aligns with the UAE’s broader goals of community wellbeing and inclusive family development, marks a significant step forward in empowering Filipino expatriate families and the larger multicultural community in Abu Dhabi.
The symposium—aptly titled “Raising Resilient Children: A Parent’s Toolkit”—seeks to provide evidence-based parenting strategies, practical guidance from experts, and a forum for shared experiences, enabling parents to adapt to the complex challenges of raising children in today’s fast-changing world.
PBC :A Holistic Response to Modern Parenting Challenges
Modern parenting comes with its unique set of challenges, especially for expatriates navigating dual cultures, demanding work environments, and the pressures of maintaining traditional family values in a contemporary setting. The PBC-AD’s symposium series directly addresses these issues by offering a platform for open discussions, professional insights, and real-world solutions.
The inaugural session, held at the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, was met with enthusiastic participation from over 150 attendees, including parents, educators, and community leaders. Featuring psychologists, child behavior specialists, school counselors, and experienced parents, the event offered a blend of lectures, panel discussions, and interactive Q&A sessions.
Bridging Cultural Gaps in Parenting
One of the key themes explored in the symposium is the cultural duality faced by many children of Filipino expats. Growing up in the UAE, these children often navigate a mix of Eastern and Western influences, which can sometimes create identity struggles or misunderstandings at home.
According to Dr. Lara Santiago, a clinical psychologist and guest speaker at the event,
“Parents must recognize that their children are growing up in a different context than they did. Cultural empathy, openness to dialogue, and emotional intelligence are essential for nurturing resilience.”
Through real-life case studies and research-backed insights, Dr. Santiago emphasized the importance of communication and intentional parenting practices that focus on developing trust and emotional security.
Equipping Parents with Real Tools
The symposium did not stop at theory. It provided practical tools and techniques that parents could immediately apply. Workshops on topics such as effective discipline without punishment, digital wellbeing in the age of screens, and fostering emotional regulation in children were particularly popular.
One interactive session titled “The Power of Active Listening” demonstrated the importance of hearing not just a child’s words, but also their emotions. Facilitators guided parents on how to respond to tantrums, anxiety, or behavioral issues with empathy rather than frustration.
Another workshop focused on positive reinforcement techniques, encouraging parents to focus on rewarding good behavior rather than punishing negative actions. The approach, rooted in behavioral psychology, helps children build self-confidence and develop internal motivation.
Building a Community of Support
PBC-AD’s initiative is not just a one-time event but a long-term community effort. With plans for quarterly sessions, follow-up mentorship programs, and digital resources, the council aims to build a sustained support network for parents.
Chairperson Lalaine Chu-Benitez shared her vision for the series:
“This isn’t just about learning. It’s about forming a village—a village that uplifts parents, reinforces shared values, and creates a safe environment for children to thrive. As Filipinos, our family values are strong, and we want to bring those values into a new era with education and community support.”
Chu-Benitez emphasized that the council’s mission extends beyond business. It includes socio-cultural development and enhancing the wellbeing of overseas Filipino workers and their families.
Partnerships with Experts and Institutions
To strengthen the impact and reach of the symposium series, PBC-AD has partnered with several institutions including the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi, local schools, UAE-based psychologists, and community organizations that focus on mental health and youth development.
Ambassador Alfonso Ver, who attended the event, praised the council’s efforts, saying,
“Empowering our kababayans with education in parenting contributes directly to the welfare of the Filipino community in the UAE. I commend the Philippine Business Council for bringing such an important issue to the forefront.”
He added that initiatives like this not only build stronger families but also strengthen the Filipino community’s positive reputation in the UAE.
Tailored for Expat Life
While the tools shared are universally applicable, many topics are tailored specifically to the realities of expat life. For example, sessions explored managing long-distance family relationships, especially in cases where one parent works in another country, or extended family members are raising children back home in the Philippines.
These unique situations require flexible strategies and heightened emotional awareness from parents. The symposium provided techniques to maintain close bonds through digital tools, consistent communication, and emotional rituals, such as shared prayers or virtual celebrations.
Voices of Experience: Parents Speak Out
Parents in attendance shared their experiences, challenges, and breakthroughs. Maria de los Santos, a mother of three and long-time Abu Dhabi resident, said,
“Sometimes, we feel alone in our parenting journey, especially when raising kids in a different culture. This symposium reminded me that we’re part of a bigger family here. The tips I learned today—especially about screen time and emotional boundaries—are game-changers for our home.”
Fathers were also encouraged to take an active role, with several sessions specifically targeting paternal engagement. The active participation of fathers highlighted a positive shift in traditional family roles, promoting more balanced involvement in child-rearing.
A Future of Resilient Generations
With mental health becoming an increasingly critical topic globally, especially post-pandemic, raising emotionally resilient children is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. By launching this symposium series, the PBC-AD is not only serving today’s parents but is investing in the UAE’s next generation.
As the series continues throughout the year, parents can look forward to upcoming themes such as building self-esteem, navigating adolescence, and preventing bullying. Each session is designed to deepen parental understanding and reinforce positive family dynamics.
Conclusion: A Bold Step Toward Stronger Families
The Philippine Business Council – Abu Dhabi’s parenting symposium series is a shining example of how grassroots community organizations can make a lasting impact. By addressing real-world challenges with expert-led solutions and cultural sensitivity, the initiative empowers parents to raise children who are emotionally resilient, socially competent, and ready to thrive in a diverse and demanding world.
In a time where families are often pulled in many directions, this initiative brings everyone back to what matters most: raising the next generation with love, wisdom, and strength.
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