As a Scarborough girl through and through, I wouldn’t be who I am today if it wasn’t for my upbringing in Scarborough and my Lolo (grandfather) Ben Tiangco.
My Lolo came to Canada over 60 years ago from the Philippines with hope and a dream for his large family of 9. They settled in Scarborough, and he got a job with Sun Life Financial. Despite speaking minimal English, he was determined to learn and excel, becoming one of their top employees and the first Filipino inducted into the Sun Life Hall of Fame.
His daughter Rosalie died suddenly in 1992, and he stepped in to raise her daughter–his granddaughter– who was just 3 years old. That granddaughter is me.
I’ve gone on to graduate from high school in Scarborough, get my undergraduate and Master’s degree, and have a successful career in television broadcasting for Toronto’s Breaking News CP24. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for my Lolo Ben.
He has been a source of inspiration, sacrifice, and dedication. He is a true example of the hard-working people who call Scarborough home, even founding the PhilTor Bowling Club which is a staple in the Filipino community!
Last summer, my Lolo needed surgery to save his life at the age of 91. The amazing staff at SHN’s General Hospital took such good care of him and gave him more time on this earth to be with his kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids! We are forever grateful to SHN for getting our Lolo back to health, and I encourage everyone to support SHN. Your support can help them overcome the challenges they face and save lives just like they did for my Lolo.
My grandfather is the essence of what it means to Love, Scarborough and I am thankful to SHN for allowing him to continue a healthy life.
Kayla Williams & Lolo Ben are one of our 11 new faces of the Scarborough Sans Family. To learn more about our campaign please visit LoveScarborough.ca