Kwentong Mabuhay with Lester de Guzman
A Vision for Community, Culture, and the Future
Lester de Guzman is a dedicated community leader and seasoned marketing and communications professional with extensive experience in both the post-secondary and government sectors. Born in San Carlos City, Pangasinan, Lester has devoted his life to mentorship, continuous learning, and servant leadership. Since joining Mabuhay House Society as a board member in January 2024, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and an unwavering commitment to the Filipino-Canadian community.
What motivates you to do this work?
What truly inspires me is the dedication and passion of the staff and board members of Mabuhay House Society with the support of 75 organizations signing the Unity Statement. Everyone involved—whether through their time, skills, or resources—is working tirelessly to turn the dream of a Provincial Filipino Cultural Centre (PFCC) into reality.
Although I only joined Mabuhay House Society in 2024, I have quickly come to understand the depth of work needed for this multi-year project. But for me, this work is not just about the present—it’s about the generations to come. I want future Filipino Canadians to have a place where they can play, explore, and celebrate our rich history, culture, and traditions.
On a personal level, I stay committed to this work for my nieces, nephews, and for Ate Sammie Jo’s son, Pablo. As the former chair, Ate Sammie Jo dedicated her heart, skills, and talents to our community. I want to make sure her dream of a Filipino Cultural Centre for Pablo—and for all Filipino Canadians—becomes a reality.
What is your North Star? What guides your work and intentions?
Since immigrating to Canada in 2012, I have always been drawn to giving back to my community. I believe that a thriving Filipino community starts with empowered and reputable leaders. My goal is to help cultivate and support strong leaders within our community—because when we lift each other up, we create lasting impact.
Early in my career in BC, I struggled to find a fulfilling role. But thanks to mentors who guided me, I found my passion in Marketing and Communications. This experience fuels my dedication—not only to building the Filipino Cultural Centre but also to fostering a vibrant community where Filipino seniors, youth, immigrants, businesses, and families feel supported and empowered.
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned from community work?
Community work requires time, long-term planning, and genuine collaboration. While there have been past attempts to build a cultural centre, this is the first time the government has invested in our community, and that is a major milestone.
One Filipino proverb resonates with me deeply:
👉 “Ang naglalakad ng matulin, kung matinik ay malalim.”
(Those who walk too fast may fall into deep thorns.)
This reminds me that haste leads to mistakes. While there is excitement and eagerness to see the PFCC established quickly, I recognize that a project of this scale requires careful planning and alignment with multiple stakeholders—including the province and Mabuhay House Society.
Lester de Guzman as the the Board Chair, presents the Mabuhay House Society Strategic Plan 2025-2030. Photo by Khim Mata Hipol
As Chair, my role is to ensure that we stay on track with:
The implementation of MHS’s strategic plan
Meaningful community engagement and feedback
The long-term sustainability of this initiative
If a Filipino youth asked you for advice, what would you say?
Read The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek. This book helped me shift my focus to long-term thinking—both professionally and personally.
Lester meeting his mentor, Lara Johnson, VP of Marketing and Communications at BCIT in 2019 through the Leaders of Tomorrow by the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
I would also tell them: Invest in your skills and talents through education, and find a mentor who can help guide you toward your goals. Mentorship is powerful—it can open doors, provide direction, and keep you grounded as you navigate your journey.
What does ‘Mabuhay’ mean to you?
To me, Mabuhay is a word full of joy, warmth, and welcome—whether you’re greeting a friend after years apart or meeting someone for the first time. Even phonetically, it’s an open, energetic word that embodies positivity.
March 1, 2025 Mabuhay House Society community event entitled: Filipino Community and Cultural Foundations: Building Sustainable Leadership Through Inclusive Systems. Photo by Khim Mata Hipol
But beyond its literal meaning (“long live”), Mabuhay also represents longevity and sustainability. As the new Chair, my focus is on ensuring the long-term success of Mabuhay House Society—so that its mission and impact continue for generations to come.