Mimi Diumano

Back to category

June 10, 2025

Interviewed by Chenelle Ferguson, Communications, Marketing & Social Media Intern

Rooted in Community, Guided by Culture

Mimi’s Role and Background at SCHC

My name is Mimi, and I’m a Community Health Ambassador with the Preventative Care Program at SCHC. I joined the organization in October 2024, and it has been incredibly fulfilling.  I was born and raised in the Philippines and moved to Canada in 2022, alone and without knowing anyone. It was a leap of faith, but it’s one I am grateful for. Since arriving, I’ve made Scarborough my home. Every day looks different; some days I’m out with the wellness clinic and facilitating health sessions, others I’m organizing community events or engaging in research. I appreciate the variety and the opportunity to connect with so many people, share resources, and understand the nuances of the community and healthcare system. Many people we serve often live in precarious situations, and it’s great that our team plays a huge role in helping them thrive regardless of their situation. Right now, my work is my happy place.

Sources of Inspiration and Motivation

I am continuously inspired by my parents and my 3 older sisters whose quiet strength, humility, and faith in God I aspire to follow. People inspire me unknowingly, too. In my many years with humanitarian work, I’ve been to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas where I met the poorest of the poor with the warmest smiles, who just felt happy to be alive, despite not knowing where they would sleep or what they would eat the next day.  It’s also every person that I encounter who is courageous enough to admit that they’re struggling and ask for help – not for themselves, but for the people they love. These acts of positivity and loving remind me that being a community worker is not just about giving something to communities, because the fact of the matter is, we learn and receive more from them.

The Meaning of Filipino Heritage Month and Cultural Influence

I embrace being a Filipino. It’s a part of my identity and I’m proud of it.  I’m grateful that through our “Scarborough Salu-salo” event this year, we have the opportunity to celebrate our heritage alongside the contributions of our community in Scarborough and gather around traditional arts and food. It’s personal for me as well because it honours the sacrifices of every Filipino who left home in the hopes of building a better life for their families. That courage, love, and shared responsibility are very much woven into who we are as Filipinos, and it shapes how I approach my work. 

Proudest Achievement

For me, it is about striving to do my work as conscientiously as I can each day. Community work is complex as people are complex, and I want to be intentional in creating a space where people feel safe to share and grow. Receiving the President’s Award at Centennial College in 2024 was deeply meaningful as well because juggling work, studies, and placements wasn’t easy, but with faith, a supportive community and loved ones back home, I made it through. Above all, I just hope I’m being a good daughter, sister, friend, and colleague. I’m trying my best.

Mimi’s Experience Speaking with Filipino TV about SCHC’s Work

It was nerve-wracking yet empowering to share the work SCHC is doing for diverse communities in Scarborough and beyond. It gave us a platform to raise awareness and highlight the importance of culturally responsive care, aside from giving visibility and representation to the Filipino community. 

Filipino Representation in Healthcare

I take pride that Filipinos are visible in healthcare globally, especially in roles like nursing and caregiving. It’s great that we’re making progress, but there’s still work to do. I personally think that Filipinos are underrepresented in leadership roles and often overlooked in policy discussions. However, having roles like community ambassadors add so much value to help ensure our voices are heard and our unique needs are addressed. 

How SCHC Could Further Support and Engage the Filipino Community

I think we could expand our digital outreach—more Tagalog-language content, community-led videos, and spotlight stories. Collaborating with Filipino youth and elders in programming would also deepen engagement. More culturally specific services—like mental health support and caregiver workshops—would be hugely beneficial 

What Mimi Wants Readers to Know

I want to recognize the often-unseen contributions of Community Health Ambassadors and other non-clinical staff. We play a vital role in making the healthcare system more accessible, human, and community-centred. We help make the system run smoothly, even if our contributions go unnoticed. I hope that as the healthcare sector continues to evolve, the value of what we do is more fully recognized. But on top of that, I feel blessed to be part of SCHC and serve the community I call home. I’m thankful to God that every single day, I am given the chance to learn and do something that is life-giving.