Hightower High School in Missouri City, TX exploded with non-stop electrifying performances from various Asian American high school students who staged an advance celebration of the Lunar New Year Festival in Fort Bend County. This event was held on January 20, 2024 and was hosted by Hightower ESEAA at the school’s auditorium. Fourteen participating student clubs performed in the festival. These groups were composed of Hightower ESEAA, Clements CKC, Clements Japanese Club, Clements VSA, Crawford ACA, Dulles HKCCC, Dulles KCC, Dulles Tinikling, Elkins NCHS, Kemper Kcrew, Kempner VSA, Ridgepoint SEAA, Travis FSA and Travis Hallyu.
This year’s celebration became another spectacular showcase of culture and talent from young Asian Americans. It was an entertainment treat for many who came for the first time to watch the festival. Outside of the auditorium, there were booths set up by students from participating schools that were selling food and drinks. Other groups had engaged guests into popular Asian games. Filipino students had the opportunity to teach the tinikling dance to those who were interested to learn the popular Philippine folk dance.
In her interview with One Philippines, High School FilAm leader Reeya Mequiabas said “As the President of East/Southeast Asian Association (ESEAA), it is an honor to have worked with such great team starting with our very dedicated sponsor, Ms. Momin, to our hardworking officers and representatives, and it is so emotionally rewarding as to how much we have grown as a club. It all started with a - Omg we should start an East and Southeast Asian Club - to having one of the most successful events in Fortbend ISD that involves other East and Southeast Asian clubs/organizations around the district. Seeing everyone enjoying this huge event and connecting with friends and family through culture really contributes to the quality of life that we as a community need to foster more. This will be my last year being part of the club, but I hope to see this heartwarming tradition continue and flourish for more years to come.” Talented as she is, Reeya Mequiabas also performed during the festival as she rendered her beautiful rendition of the popular Filipino love song Til I Met You.
One Philippines is privileged to cover this kind of community event where the younger generations of Filipino Americans share their active involvement and leadership in school activities. Publisher and owner, Bhong Zausa applauded the efforts of FilAm students in Fort Bend County, he said “You are all inspiration to our community. You will be great leaders someday. I congratulate you and most especially your parents for supporting you and allowing you to be active student leaders and young ambassadors of our Filipino culture. May you continue to grow with other Asian Americans and share your talents and leadership for a better and brighter community.”
Comments