Inclusivity shines at Hand and Heart Foundation and Discovery Primea's art auction

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The Hand and Heart Foundation founder, Gen Diokno, leading the deaf guests in a song, 'Reach' by Gloria Estefan, with Neil Pedrosa providing the vocals.

The Hand and Heart Foundation found a ready partner in Discovery Primea and mounted a successful silent art auction paired with a tasting menu dinner to raise funds for their dream project: a specialized learning center for deaf children. Genevieve Diokno, a deaf leader and founder of Hand and Heart, proudly signed, “We are grateful for the support of the business and art communities who came together for our cause. Our dream is that this learning center will enable deaf children to break the glass ceiling for gainful employment.”

Peking Duck Kiampong

Celebrity Chef Sharwin Tee

Discovery Primea’s Executive Chef Luis Chikiamco

Equity, diversity, and inclusion are at the heart of what Hand and Heart is striving for, and they’re especially grateful for companies like Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (CBTL), which are ahead of the curve in placing trained and qualified deaf individuals in their workforce. The Chinoy-inspired dinner was a collaborative effort between Primea’s Executive Chef Luis Chikiamco and guest Chef Sharwin Tee, who elevated familiar comfort dishes into a memorable fine dining experience.

Discovery Primea's general manager David Pardo de Ayala with Edward Lim and Leah Caringal

Hope G. Tang, Elyse Go, Kurt Silvano, Arlene Tan Bantoto, and Faith G. Lim

PWD artists Vico Cham, Nina Bantolo, Ishihara Malang, and Al Kim Baptisma

Ron, Chris, Rossana, and Charles—bosom friends of The Hand and Heart Foundation

Artists and patrons who generously contributed to the stellar list of auction lots included Fernando Sena, Arturo Luz, Ramon Orlina, Jesse Esplana, and Mike Sagaran. Items were also donated by Heart Evangelista and Emmeline A. Villar. What was especially moving was the spirit of community and camaraderie displayed by the deaf attendees who came in full support. Led by Gen Diokno, they even performed a song in chorus.

We should all take the time to truly listen to their plea for greater inclusivity.