Eman Recio | President
Eman Recio is an accomplished Filipino-Australian chef, entrepreneur, and model whose passion for culinary artistry and community service continues to inspire many. A graduate of Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management with a major in Culinary Arts (Bread and Pastries), Eman furthered his education with a Master’s in Business Administration, equipping him with both creative and strategic expertise in the hospitality industry.
Currently serving as Chef Manager for NSW Catering Services since 2023, Eman brings innovation and precision to every plate he creates. His talent and leadership have earned him multiple distinctions, including being named Star of the Night by the Philippine Chef Society (2019) and Pop Philippine Outstanding Chef for the Culinary and Pastry Industry (2021).
Eman’s charm and skill have also brought him into the spotlight as a demo chef and celebrity guest on major Filipino television networks such as ABS-CBN, GMA, Net25, and UNTV since 2015, showcasing his culinary artistry to a wide audience.
Beyond the kitchen, Eman has also made a remarkable mark in the pageant and modelling world, earning both national and international recognition for his talent, charisma, and advocacy. He holds an impressive list of titles, including Mister Multicultural Australia 2023, Mister Glam Humanity Australia 2023, Mister Belle Epoque International Ambassador 2024, and RGEM Promotions, Mr. Ginoo, and StarCentral Magazine Ultimate Cover Model 2024. His achievements extend further with the FILCCA Youth Expo Icon of Influence Award 2025, NARRA | ACI Ambassadors Honouree 2025, and Global Awardee for being a Multi-Talented Chef and Fashion Model 2025. In recognition of his growing influence and dedication to his craft, Eman was also honoured as a Hollywood Asia 2025 Elite Multinational Advocate and Culinary Artisan, and crowned Majestic Charity King Australia 2025, solidifying his reputation as a true embodiment of passion, versatility, and excellence.
A dedicated community leader, Eman also serves as a Board Member of the Filipino Australian Community in Eastern Sydney (FACAES) and the Tagalog Association of Australia (TAA), where he advocates for cultural unity, youth empowerment, and philanthropy.
Karenza De Leon | Vice President for Internal Affairs
Karenza De Leon is a model, radio host, educator, and community volunteer from New South Wales who embodies grace, purpose, and empowerment. Crowned Miss Charity Australia 2023, Miss Philippines Australia 2024, and now a Miss Universe Philippines 2025 delegate, Karenza continues to shine as a beacon of beauty with a cause.
As a presenter at Alive 90.5 FM, she uses her voice to inspire and connect with diverse audiences, amplifying stories that matter. Beyond the spotlight, Karenza is an educator and modelling instructor at Country Girl Management, dedicated to empowering students and young talents through mentorship, better training, and improved access to educational resources both in Australia and abroad. Passionate, compassionate, and purpose-driven, she represents the modern Filipina-Australian woman—intelligent, confident, and committed to making a difference.
Bella Dela Cruz | Vice President for Operations
Bella Dela Cruz is the reigning Miss International Australia 2025. Her pageant journey began in 2023, when she was crowned Miss Philippines Australia 2023 and Miss Charity Queen 2023, marking the start of a remarkable path in pageantry. In May 2025, she competed as Tour Miss Universe Philippines Sydney/Lucena, placing in the Top 20 out of 70 candidates worldwide.
Beyond the crown, Bella is a full-time economist and consultant at Oxford Economics, bringing intelligence, strategy, and purpose to her professional work. She graduated with distinction honours from the University of New South Wales, earning a double bachelor’s degree in Commerce & Economics, majoring in Econometrics, Business Strategy, Marketing, and International Relations. A high-achieving student from the start, she completed high school on the honour roll with an ATAR of 95.
Bella’s advocacy focuses on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 4: Quality Education, particularly for vulnerable children and rural communities. Her research at UNSW revealed that education is the most powerful tool to break intergenerational poverty, inspiring her to establish Bella’s Book Foundation, which provides school supplies, funds scholarships, and creates mentorship programs to encourage students to stay in school and pursue brighter futures.
Outside of her professional and advocacy work, Bella is passionate about singing, dancing, performing, and hosting community events. She is an accomplished athletics age champion, a state dodgeball player, and enjoys social volleyball.
Dr. Jaime R. Lopez | Treasurer
Dr. Jaime R. Lopez, CPA, is a distinguished community leader, volunteer, educator, and advocate for Filipino-Australian culture and education. A multi-awarded volunteer, he has been recognised by the Premier’s Volunteer Recognition Program, the Zest Awards, Common Equity Innovation Award, and numerous Filipino-Australian organisations for his exceptional contributions to community leadership, arts, and culture.
Born in the Philippines, Dr. Lopez earned a Ph.D. in Education, an MBA, a Master of Arts in Teaching, and a BSc in Commerce from Charles Sturt University. He served as a University Professor at Saint Louis University, Dean of the College of Commerce at Baguio Central University, and Financial Controller at Hotel Nevada, receiving accolades including the Outstanding Accountant award and multiple Outstanding Alumni awards. He held leadership roles in the Philippine community, including president of several professional and civic organisations, Rotary treasurer, and Toastmasters officer.
Since migrating to Australia, Dr. Lopez has founded and led numerous community organisations, including Global Ilocanos Australia Inc., NARRA Co-op Ltd, PICPA Australia Chapter, Sedgwick Housing Co-op Ltd, and several Filipino cultural and spiritual associations. His initiatives support newly arrived migrants, seniors, and vulnerable families, while promoting Filipino arts, heritage, and education. Under his guidance, the Arts, Culture and Innovation Centre was established, hosting lectures, cultural exhibits, and community programs.
Dr. Lopez has also organised major alumni reunions and scholarship fundraisers, raising millions for education through legacy projects. A committed volunteer and spiritual leader, he serves as Eucharistic Minister, Acolyte, and coordinator of cultural and devotional activities.
Guided by the belief that new migrants should be supported and empowered, Dr. Jaime Lopez continues to champion community cohesion, education, and Filipino heritage in Australia, leaving a lasting legacy of service, leadership, and innovation.
Desa Santos Estandarte | Secretary
Desa Santos Estandarte is a registered nurse, an accomplished MC, a talented singer, and a devoted mother. Balancing her professional career in healthcare with her passion for performance, Desa has become known for her ability to connect with people both on stage and in her community. As an MC and singer, she brings energy, warmth, and authenticity to every event she hosts or performs at, while her nursing career reflects her dedication, compassion, and commitment to caring for others. Beyond her professional and creative pursuits, Desa cherishes her role as a mum, inspiring those around her with her multitasking abilities, resilience, and heart for service.
Shez Solomon | Partnerships Director
Shez Solomon is a dynamic Filipino-Australian performer, entrepreneur, and content creator. As a proud member of Saltik Dance Group, she celebrates her heritage through high-energy performances that inspire and entertain. Beyond the stage, Shez is the Director at Ecoshine Services Pty Ltd, where she applies her leadership and creative skills in business. Passionate about movement and wellness, she enjoys dancing Zumba, blending fitness and fun into her lifestyle. With a unique combination of artistry, entrepreneurship, and community engagement, Shez continues to make an impact both on and off the dance floor.
Marilie Harrison | Partnership Director
Marilie Harrison is a vibrant Filipino-Australian performer and content creator. As a valued member of Saltik Dance Group, she expresses her passion for Filipino culture through energetic and captivating performances. Outside of the group, Marilie loves dancing Zumba, combining her love for movement, music, and fitness. With creativity and dedication at her core, she continues to inspire others through dance and her engaging online content.
Mike Ilagan | Marketing Director
Mike Ilagan is the Managing Director of StarCentral Magazine and a seasoned professional in the publishing and entertainment industry, with over 20 years of experience. As a publisher and event organiser, Mike has been instrumental in shaping media and entertainment projects that highlight talent, culture, and community.