Filipino American leaders to meet in Colorado on issues affecting their communities

The national conference will address voting, mental health, public service, leadership and cultural preservation.

AURORA, Colorado — More than 200 Filipino American leaders, professionals, students and advocates are expected to gather in Colorado in August for a national conference focused on voting, mental health, public service, leadership development and cultural preservation, according to the National Federation of Filipino American Associations.

NaFFAA’s 16th National Empowerment Conference is scheduled for Aug. 14 and 15 at the Hyatt Regency Aurora-Denver Conference Center. Pre-conference activities on Aug. 13 will include registration, a professional boot camp and an opening reception.

Organizers said participants are expected from business, government, education, health care, nonprofit organizations, media, entrepreneurship and youth groups.

The program will include sessions on voting rights, immigration, mental health, entrepreneurship, health care, anti-Asian hate, Filipino American history and representation in elected office. A “Run for Office” panel will examine the transition from community advocacy to public service.

Dante Francis “Klink” Ang II, chairperson of the Philippine government’s Commission on Filipinos Overseas, is scheduled to deliver the opening keynote address. Michelle Mras and Dr. Stacey Litam are also listed in the program.

A founders’ roundtable will feature Loida Nicolas Lewis, Rodel Rodis and Gloria Caoile in a discussion of NaFFAA’s formation and development as a national network.

The conference will also include the Emerging Leadership Institute, NaFFAA’s youth leadership program, which provides training, mentoring and professional development for young Filipino Americans.

Brian Flores of CBS News Colorado is scheduled to participate as a panelist and gala emcee, according to NaFFAA. Lorraine Eloriaga and Hannah Tolentino are also expected to take part.

The conference will conclude Aug. 15 with the Bayanihan Awards Gala and Fashion Show featuring Filipiniana fashion, cultural storytelling and recognition of community leaders.

Registration is available at www.naffaa.org/nec2026. For information, call (301) 337-7352 or email info@naffaa.org. Organizers said the agenda is subject to change.