The Gawad Kasambahay 2024 press conference officially commenced the nomination and application period for its third edition on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at the B-Hub in Burjuman Mall. This event marked the beginning of recognizing the dedication and sacrifices of Filipino household service workers in the UAE.
The press conference was attended by social media influencers, media representatives, and dignitaries from Philippine government posts, including the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, and the Philippine Business Council-Dubai. Marilyn ‘Wafa’ Kasimieh from the Department of Mohammed Bin Rashid Center for Islamic Culture was also present.
Presented by Balikbayan Store and Event Partner FilVision Middle East, in collaboration with Proexperts Media Live, the event celebrated Filipino household service workers and honored employers who have demonstrated exemplary care.
Michelle Guinto, founder of Gawad Kasambahay, expressed, “This initiative recognizes the invaluable contributions of our kasambahays. Their dedication often goes unnoticed, and through this platform, we aim to give them the recognition they deserve and highlight the importance of supportive employers.”
The event featured performances by Filipino artists, including spoken poetry by Biriterang Makata and a rendition of “MaPa” by SB19 performed by Leo Manalac. Inspirational messages were delivered by Vice Consul Paola Belle D. Ebora and Philippine Business Council Chairman Prof. Gau Raganit.
Leo Barrameda, a core team member, emphasized the importance of this Corporate Social Responsibility initiative in rebranding stereotypes associated with the industry, highlighting its positive community impact. Vhie Laurilla, Managing Director of FilVision Middle East, noted the crucial role of social media influencers in engaging with the kasambahay community.
The Filipino group Fil-HR also expressed their support, committing to providing career development talks for nominees. The nomination and application period will run until September 15, 2024. Winners will receive various awards and prizes, including business class tickets, cash prizes, and more.
The major award categories include:
- Household Manager of the Year
- Kasambahay Achiever of the Year
- K Idol (Kasambahay Idol of the Year)
- Loyalty Award of the Year
- Nanny of the Year
- Lady Driver of the Year
- House Cook of the Year
- Breadwinner of the Year
Special awards include Exemplary Employer of the Year, Sponsor’s Choice Award, Celebrity Kasambahay Award, and Best Dress of the Night.
Key dates for the program are as follows:
- September 15, 2024: End of Nomination & Applications
- September 28-29, 2024: Initial Interview of Shortlisted Nominees and Career and Entrepreneurship Program
- October 5, 2024: Inday’s Day Out / Dubai City Tour
- October 6, 2024: Online Announcement of Grand Finalists
- October 12, 2024: Final Interview and Photo and Video Shoot of Finalists
- October 26, 2024: Awarding and Gala Night
- November 2, 2024: GK After Party with Sponsors & Influencers
Previous awardees have been recognized for their exceptional service, including Rose Bella and Marissa Postre, demonstrating the initiative’s broad engagement and support.
To nominate yourself, click here.
To nominate someone else, click here.