The Center for Disaster Preparedness Foundation Inc. (CDPF) is proud to announce that two innovators of Pinnovation Academy, Maria Fe “Anafe” Mejia Maravillas of Las Pinas Persons with Disability Federation and Zenith Ballerta of Pandan Tri-people Women’s Organization and, were selected and speak at the Asian-Pacific Local Leaders Forum for Disaster Resilience (APLL4DR) on October 14, 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).
The Asian-Pacific Local Leaders Forum for Disaster Resilience (APLL4DR) is a prestigious platform that recognizes and celebrates the efforts of local leaders who demonstrate outstanding leadership in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. The forum brings together trailblazers from across the Asia-Pacific region, highlighting innovative approaches to building resilient communities in the face of climate change and natural disasters. Through the exchange of knowledge and best practices, APLL4DR fosters collaboration among local leaders to enhance disaster resilience and promote sustainable development in vulnerable areas.
Anafe and Zenith are extraordinary women dedicated to community empowerment and disaster resilience. Their efforts in promoting the rights and welfare of marginalized groups through community-led DRR Innovations have earned them well-deserved recognition.
Pinnovation Academy is a pioneering initiative that fosters community-led innovations, focusing on addressing local challenges through creative and sustainable solutions. By engaging with grassroots leaders and organizations, Pinnovation Academy empowers communities to develop innovative approaches to agriculture, health, and disaster resilience. Both Anafe and Zenith became involved in community-led innovations through their deep commitment to empowering their respective communities. Through their work, they contribute to Pinnovation Academy’s mission of building resilient and empowered communities.
Maria Fe Mejia Maravillas: Champion for Persons with Disabilities
Maria Fe "Anafe" Mejia Maravillas has long been an advocate for the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities (PWD). Her life is a symbol of resilience, both personally and professionally. Having lived with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis for over 20 years, Maria Fe has drawn from her experiences to lead, uplift, and support the PWD community. Her personal challenges have given her the strength and empathy to become a prominent individual in Inclusive Community-Based DRRM.
As the President of the Las Piñas Persons with Disability Federation, Inc. (LPPWDFI), Maria Fe is always at the forefront of lobbying various government agencies and local government officials to ensure that the needs of Persons with disabilities are not disregarded during disasters and emergencies. One of her most significant contributions is the development of the A-TRAMS Accessible Transportation Mobile Service for Persons with Mobility Concerns —an innovative initiative for Persons with Disabilities ensuring accessibility, safety, and participation. This service has transformed the way disaster response is conducted for individuals with disabilities, through safe and efficient evacuation. Her persistent advocacy for inclusion in governance and disaster preparedness greatly improved the lives of countless individuals with disabilities. Maria Fe’s leadership has not only garnered recognition from various organizations but has also made her the best example of what it means to lead with purpose, determination, and compassion.
The A-TRAMS project is developing significantly by expanding its reach to twenty (20) barangays in Las Piñas, with four (4) barangays already approved for funding to modify vehicles. The Las Piñas City Government has procured new A-TRAMS vehicles, setting a new standard for inclusive disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM). These initiatives demonstrate how community-driven innovations, supported by local governments, can enhance resilience and inclusivity in addressing crucial challenges.
Zenith Ballerta: Advocate for Indigenous Women and Disaster Resilience
Zenith Ballerta, a proud member of the Teduray tribe from Maguindanao, is a source of strength and leadership in her community. As the President of the Pandan Tri-people Women’s Organization, she led several transformative initiatives. Zenith spearheaded the Lawi Fetinanaan (House of Healing), which combines traditional healing practices with modern disaster preparedness measures. Her dedication to preserving Indigenous health knowledge while promoting resilience significantly impacted the lives of her community members.
Her leadership extends beyond healthcare advocacy to empowering women in disaster risk reduction. She significantly became an instrument to improve access to essential services for Indigenous women, and under her leadership, PTWO members improved their capabilities in healthcare, wellness, and humanitarian response. Their herbal soap, oil, liniment, and teas are highly sought after for treating skin diseases, stomach aches, and flu. Recently, they even addressed a food poisoning incident, preventing several people from requiring hospitalization.
Zenith’s group has mentored other women, advancing their leadership and expanding their membership and initiatives to other sitios. They made their products accessible and affordable and the services they provide become vital to the community’s resilience, reinforcing a community-led approach of care and support not only garnered credibility and recognition from various organizations but has also made her the best example of what it means to lead with purpose, determination, and compassion.
Zenith and Maria Fe presented their remarkable stories at the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction 2024 (APMCDRR 2024) in Manila. This unique opportunity acknowledged their exceptional contributions to enhancing disaster resilience and advocating for the rights of women and marginalized communities. Their participation in this event celebrates their outstanding achievements and serves as an inspiration for continued efforts to build a more inclusive and resilient future for all.
Congratulations, Zenith and Maria Fe, on this well-deserved recognition!
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