At the heart of every Ramadan gathering lies a spirit of gratitude, generosity, and unity. Ghabga, a cherished Gulf tradition where families and friends gather to share meals, stories, and prayers evoked a sentiment that went far beyond a corporate event.
For two Filipina doctors, attending the KIMSHEALTH Group Ghabga was more than a corporate celebration, it was a meaningful reflection of identity, belonging, and cultural harmony.
On February 22, Dr. Khristin Villanueva, a 50-year-old dentist, joined her colleagues at the elegant Gulf Hotel Bahrain for the annual Ghabga hosted by KIMSHEALTH. She has dedicated the past 11 years of service to the company.
“Being part of the company’s Ghabga celebration means something deeply personal to me,” she shared.
Married to a Bahraini for 17 years, she considers Bahrain not just her workplace but her home. “Ghabga is something I’ve experienced not only in professional spaces, but around the family table, surrounded by loved ones. So when my company hosts it, it feels familiar, warm, and meaningful.”
For her, the celebration represents the seamless blending of her Filipino roots with the culture she has embraced through marriage and life in Bahrain. “It’s beautiful to see my two worlds come together. Being part of the celebration makes me feel proud, connected, and truly included.”
Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Khristin has also been an active advocate of volunteerism within the Filipino community in Bahrain. Whenever her services are needed, she readily extends her expertise, offering dental consultations and health guidance during community outreach programs and gatherings.
Similarly, Dr. Maria Rosario Pacolor, General Practitioner at KIMSHEALTH, emphasized the deeper cultural and professional meaning of participating in Ramadan gatherings.
“As a Filipino professional working in Bahrain, being part of a company’s Ramadan celebration carries deeper cultural and professional meaning,” Dr. Pacolor explained. “Joining Ramadan events strengthens trust and camaraderie with Muslim colleagues and leadership. It shows solidarity and appreciation for their faith, which deepens mutual respect and teamwork.”
Voices from the Leadership
The evening was graced by His Excellency Gines Jaime Ricardo D. Gallaga and his spouse, Madam Moira, whose presence underscored the event’s diplomatic and community significance.
Keynotes delivered by Dr. M. I. Sahadulla (Group Chairman & Managing Director), Dr. Sheriff M. Sahadulla (Group CEO), and Ahmed Jawahery (Chairman of KIMSHEALTH) wove together themes of unity, cultural appreciation, and organizational excellence.
Also present at the event were members of the Filipino community, including Dinah E. Sta. Ana, president of the women’s organization Pinay Ikaw Na, and Cecil Ancheta of the Filipino Writers’ Circle.
A Celebration Beyond the Table
More than an evening of traditional cuisine and elegant ambiance, the KIMSHEALTH Ghabga symbolizes unity in diversity. It creates a space where colleagues from different backgrounds gather not merely as employees, but as one community sharing stories, laughter, and gratitude during the holy month of Ramadan.
For these Filipina doctors and their colleagues, the celebration stands as a reminder that belonging is built through respect, shared values, and the simple yet powerful act of coming together. The annual Ghabga is not just a tradition; it is a bridge connecting cultures, fostering camaraderie, and celebrating the shared spirit of generosity that defines the company and its people.
