The Heartbeat of SOMA Pilipinas: A Year of Growth and Celebration
As we embark on another year at Kultivate Labs, our hearts are full of anticipation and pride for the vibrant journey ahead in the SOMA Pilipinas Filipino Cultural Heritage District. Our mission has always been to illuminate and nurture the rich tapestry of Filipino culture within San Francisco's bustling landscape. Today, we're excited to share the fruits of our labor and the promising endeavors that await us.
Cultivating Spaces, Fostering Dreams
The narrative of San Francisco's economic and cultural landscape is being rewritten, thanks to the dedication and passion of our community. This year, we're thrilled to welcome new anchor spaces that promise to enrich our community's vibrancy:
Bituin: A new haven that merges the art of Filipino tattooing with wellness practices.
Make It Mariko’s Soma Social Club: A space that redefines social gatherings with a touch of Filipino hospitality.
Izzy & Wooks: From the beloved Inay’s Kitchen family, offering comforting bites that feel like home.
Mestiza: Making a triumphant return to weave its culinary magic once more after a brief hiatus during the pandemic.
Filipino American Development Foundation (FADF): Taking a monumental step by purchasing a building to establish a Barangay Center, a beacon for community and culture.
Make It Mariko’s Soma Social Club: A curated members club and event space for creatives & entrepreneurs. Coming Fall 2024!
Our vision extends further as we aim to welcome five more businesses into the heart of the cultural district. This initiative brings us one step closer to realizing our dream of a thriving commercial corridor that celebrates and sustains Filipino culture and entrepreneurship.
A Tapestry of Initiatives
Our journey has been marked by multifaceted initiatives that have not only celebrated Filipino culture but also propelled entrepreneurial and cultural growth. From Balay Kreative to Kapwa Gardens, the SEED Network, and the trailblazing success of Undiscovered SF, our efforts have laid the groundwork for a flourishing community.
A Calendar Brimming with Celebration
In 2024, we invite you to immerse yourself in a lineup of events that promise to dazzle, inspire, and unite:
Dye Hard: An easter egg hunt that promises fun and discovery at Kapwa Gardens on March 24.
Baked! A unique fusion of Cannabis and Filipino treats, offering a taste of innovation on April 20.
Yum Yams: Join us for an Ube Crawl that celebrates the purple yam's versatility on May 18.
Be Free Festival: A celebration of LGBTQ and Filipino liberation, spreading joy across multiple venues on June 8.
Sulat: Dive into the beauty of Baybayin, the ancient Filipino script, at our festival on July 13.
Sari-Sari Saturday: Experience the charm of a traditional Filipino market on August 24.
UNDSCVRD: Explore the unseen gems of Filipino culture, talent and entrepreneurship on October 19.
Ancestry Altars: A solemn and beautiful homage to our roots on November 2.
Halo-Halo Holidays: A festive gathering that blends the flavors of the season on December 7.
Moving Forward Together
As we step into 2024, our commitment to supporting Filipino American entrepreneurs, artists, and cultural producers has never been stronger. Our array of events and programs is designed to amplify our impact, fostering a community that's resilient, innovative, and united.
At Kultivate Labs, we believe in crafting a legacy that not only celebrates our cultural heritage but also contributes to the economic vitality of our city. Join us as we continue to build bridges, inspire dreams, and celebrate the rich tapestry of Filipino culture. Together, we're not just making a difference; we're setting the foundation for a legacy that will resonate for generations to come.
Welcome to a year of growth, celebration, and community. Welcome to the heartbeat of SOMA Pilipinas.
