The pandemic has fundamentally reorganized our relationships with family, friends, colleagues and community associations. We have learned that technologies such as Zoom, MS Team and FaceTime will never replace real human contact. It is essential to maintain social connections despite social distancing. Social connection is a fundamental need.

Celebrating BABAE 18^th Anniversary in-person has provided us, the BABAE membership, collaborators, guests, and friends of BABAE the feeling of togetherness, camaraderie, and sisterhood.

With the presence of the new BABAE members, the graduates of the Culinary Art – Practical and Fun Socialization for Seniors under the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP), partners organizations, collaborators and Hon. Philippine Consulate General, Zaldy Patron and his wife, Sheila Patron, the 18^th Anniversary celebration was a huge success!

In grateful appreciation and recognition of their outstanding service, dedication, commitment and valuable contributions to BABAE: Council of Filipina-Canadian Women.

Dolly Castillo Lifetime Achievement Award	Sherrisa Celis Excellence In Service Award

Receiving the Certificate of Completions for the 10-hour training entitled: CULINARY ARTS – PRACTICAL AND FUN SOCIALIZATION FOR SENIORS was the most exciting part of the project. It gave the participants sense of pride, joy and self satisfaction! Learning to cook new recipes were exciting and overwhelming at the same time but with the help and support of the Culinary Arts Instructor, Marie Fayne Patricia Alvarado, the experienced was fun and joyful. It created fondest memories when gathered around the table with family sharing and trying the new dishes.