Philippine Update
Philippines Visit: Sowing Vision
During my recent visit to Manila, Philippines, I spent time with the students at People of Grace and the children in our slums outreach. I asked them to share their dreams for their lives, and we talked about how — even in difficult circumstances — our challenges can prepare us for those dreams if we choose the right mindset.
My time at the school reminded me how deeply parents and teachers need support as they raise a generation still healing from the two-year lockdown in Manila. And visiting our outreach once again showed me the importance of sowing vision into the lives of vulnerable children so they have hope, purpose, and a reason to persevere.
Project Emerge Update: Frustration & Trust
🎥 Watch the video below from my September visit, or click here: https://bit.ly/ProjectEmergeUpdate
Since this video was filmed, the first floor is now mostly completed, and we are currently awaiting our fire permit so we can apply for our move-in permit.
It has been frustrating to navigate the ever-changing government requirements for school facilities and curriculum — especially when the infrastructure to support these changes simply isn’t there for small schools like ours.
Even more disheartening has been dealing with corrupt inspectors who openly demand an SOP (a “standard operating procedure” — essentially a bribe) before approving a permit. We are often held hostage by this broken system, and we continue to pray and look for a solution that allows us to move forward without contributing to corruption.
Yet even in the frustration, I am reminded to trust God. And I am deeply thankful for your continued partnership in building a leadership and educational center that is transforming lives and shaping future leaders.
Join Us at Our Gratitude Gala!
We would love to celebrate Christmas with you and gather together as a community at our upcoming Gratitude Gala.
🗓️ Sunday, December 14
⏳ 6:00–9:00 p.m.
📍 Fleetwood Community Centre
15996 84 Avenue, Surrey, BC V4N 0W1
👉🏼 Click here to RSVP and get your tickets! https://bit.ly/GratitudeGala2025tickets
If you’d like to donate auction items or support the event as a sponsor, simply hit reply — we’d love to partner with you to make this night meaningful and impactful.
See you soon!
With gratitude,
Buena Tupe
Founder
People of Grace International
Ways to Give
Online: bit.ly/pogigift
Cheques to ICMS: Please include a "separate" note – For People of Grace International
Contact: 604-240-5096 or peopleofgraceintl@gmail.com
Donations in the US and Canada are tax receipted by ICMS (International Christian Mission Services).
