Village Connect
An afternoon of storytelling and cultural exchange unfolded at SM Podium’s Book Nook as Australian Ambassador HK Yu joined Architect Shereen Sy and SM Supermalls president Steven Tan to launch the first-ever Australia Corner in Manila.
This dedicated space within the Book Nook showcases a curated selection of Australian children’s books, novels, and educational materials—many of which are rare finds in the Philippines. The collection, a generous donation from the Australian Embassy, Australian alumni, and Melbourne’s Give-A-Textbook Foundation, aims to introduce Filipino readers to Australia’s rich heritage and contemporary society.
“I hope this initiative inspires a love for reading and fosters a deeper understanding of Australia, from our First Nation heritage to our modern multicultural identity,” Ambassador Yu shared.
The inspiration behind Book Nook traces back to Shereen Sy’s time in Australia, where she encountered a small, self-service book-sharing shelf in Melbourne. The concept resonated with her, sparking a vision to bring a similar accessible and community-driven reading space to the Philippines.
Ambassador Yu commended Sy and her fellow Australia alumnus, Chico, for turning their learning experiences abroad into a meaningful local project. “It’s heartwarming to see alumni bringing back knowledge and values from Australia to create positive change in their communities,” she said.
The event also became a homecoming for Australia-educated Filipinos who gathered to celebrate Sy’s initiative. Ambassador Yu expressed enthusiasm for future collaborations, envisioning Australia Corner as a hub for workshops, lectures, and cultural activities led by Australian guests and alumni.
Book Nook, managed by SM Cares, is a free library where anyone can read, donate, and engage in literary events. Since opening its first branch at SM Aura in 2020, it has continued to promote literacy and community bonding—now with a special Aussie touch at SM Podium.
