A new organization dedicated to advancing multicultural education and supporting Filipino-American educators has officially been launched. The International Association of Multicultural & Filipino-American Educators, Inc. (IAM FAME, Inc.) was established on March 3, 2025, and is now formally registered in the state of Nevada.

The organization was founded by Dr. Arsenio M. Manalo, Dr. Myleen P. Legaspi, and Dr. Eleuterio F. Timbol Jr., three educators who identified a critical need for greater outreach, resources, and advocacy for multicultural educators, especially on the West Coast. Their collective vision centers on empowering educators through professional development, cultural awareness, and educational equity.

IAM FAME, Inc. aims to serve as a central platform for educators and community leaders to collaborate, share best practices, and promote cultural heritage—particularly that of the Filipino-American community. The organization also seeks to address the challenges faced by immigrant teachers, including those working in the U.S. on J-1 and H-1B visas.

The group has introduced a comprehensive 11-point agenda designed to foster learning, mentorship, community involvement, and academic recognition. These key initiatives include:

1. BALIK-DUNONG (Return of Knowledge Program) – A mentorship program that allows experienced educators to guide and support their peers and students.

   
   

2. PEN OF WISDOM (Pluma ng Karunungan Project) – A literacy and writing initiative to encourage creative and academic expression.

   
   

3. HOTS – Help One Teacher to Succeed – A support network for J-1 and H-1B visa educators.

   
   

4. BALIK-ARAL Program – A continuing education effort that promotes advanced learning and upskilling for teachers.

   
   

5. BALIK-TULONG Program – A charitable initiative that offers financial assistance and essential resources to underprivileged educators and students.

   
   

6. SAGIP-ARAL Project – An education relief effort aimed at helping students in need through scholarships and school supplies.

   
   

7. KISLAP – Kalingang Isasagawa Sa Paghahandog ng Lapis At Papel – A project that distributes learning materials such as pencils and paper to underserved schools.

   
   

8. DIVERSE – Diverse Insights, Voices for Educational Research & Symposium in Education – A research and knowledge-sharing platform promoting inclusive education.

   
   

9. PEDAL – Professional Empowerment and Development Learning – Training and leadership programs that support educators' growth and empowerment.

   
   

10. CARE – Civic Action for Reaching Educators – A volunteer and civic engagement program mobilizing support for teachers.

    
    

11. SHINE – Success, Honor, Innovation, Navigation, Excellence – A recognition program honoring outstanding educators, students, and community members.

    
    

Through these initiatives, IAM FAME, Inc. plans to create inclusive opportunities for professional development, resource-sharing, cultural celebration, and community service. The organization is also preparing to host conferences, workshops, and collaborative events aimed at strengthening the role of educators in shaping diverse learning environments.

IAM FAME, Inc. welcomes educators, students, and partners to take part in its growing movement to build a more inclusive and culturally aware educational system.