So we sat down with him for an in-depth Q & A.
You can listen below, or read a transcription of the conversation that has been edited for length and clarity.
CBC News Calgary12:14Filipino Bureau: "First we exist, then we matter"Calgary Filipino community leader Cesar Cala explores an experience that he says many new Canadians face. He calls it "first we exist, then we matter". It's the idea that it can be hard to be seen beyond a stereotype of your nationality. But that the ultimate goal is to bring a new, respected, listened to point of view to the greater community.12:14