Philippines' Michelle Dee launches Global Spectrum Initiative
Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee, the representative of the Philippines to the upcoming Miss Universe 2023 pageant in El Salvador, recently launched her own foundation, the Global Spectrum Initiative (GSI).
Inspired by her two brothers on the autism spectrum, Michelle is a strong advocate for autism awareness. She has been a long-time partner and Goodwill Ambassador of the Autism Society Philippines.
Her foundation is dedicated to creating a world where inclusion matters for everyone. It aims to build a strong community that fosters inclusivity and acceptance and to create a sanctuary for individuals on the autism spectrum.
GSI will also provide quality resources, guidance counseling, and educational programs, and create specialized rooms for learning, sensory stimulation, occupational workshops, and socialization.
Michelle took the stage during the Philippine Blockchain Week 2023 this week at Marriot Manila to talk about her advocacy. She launched a special art collection of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) by Filipino artist Marius Black to raise funds for her foundation.
The proceeds from the collection will be used to build the first Spectrum Sanctuary in the Philippines offering state-of-the-art facilities that focus on the key learning developmental needs.
"For us people, it's actually a basic right to feel included, to know your place, to have the opportunities, to live a fulfilled and maximum life. This is what we are trying to achieve and to raise funds for which is the spectrum sanctuary," she said.
"In a world full of 8 billion people, no one deserves to be left behind."
To learn more about Michelle's advocacy, visit the Global Spectrum Initiative's official website.
Photos: Miss Universe Philippines, GSI / Instagram
