Bringing People Together Through Arts, Culture, and Community
Our Community Projects and Initiatives
At Creative Hearts United, we believe arts and culture bring people together, strengthen communities, and create belonging. We provide accessible opportunities to learn, create, perform, and celebrate Filipino heritage. Through inclusive activities, we build friendships, develop skills, support well-being, and promote cultural pride. By celebrating diversity and shared experiences, we help create stronger, healthier, and more connected communities.
Karatong, Bulaklakan & Subli workshops 2026
We launched the 2026 Philippine Cultural Dance Workshops. A series of workshops take place at Dance Studio Leeds throughout the summer. The participants come from members of the Yorkshire Filipino Group (YFG). Together, they will form the YFG Cultural Dance Troupe for the year 2026. The programme helps participants learned three Filipino folk dances, the Karatong, Bulaklakan, and Subli.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2026/07/04/2026-leeds-philippine-cultural-dance-workshops/
Traditional props-making workshops 2026
We led a props‑making workshop for the YFG Cultural Dance Troupe. The workshop forms part of the 2026 Philippine Cultural Arts Programme for 2026. A one day workshop where participants create three types of tranditional dance props such as a handheld floral arches for bulaklakan, a bamboo drum worn by male dancers called karatong, and a sunburst shaped like a mango tree made form palm leaves called bunga mangga.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2026/07/12/philippine-folk-dance-props-workshop/
Tribu Pindatos workshops 2025
Participants learned steps inspired by the bold, rhythmic, and expressive movements of Pintados warriors (a heavily tattooed indigenous warriors of the Visayas islands in the pre-colonial Philippines). But beyond mastering techniques, you’ll dive into the spirit of the dance, the pride, the camaraderie, and the shared joy of coming together to celebrate culture.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2025/04/27/yorkshire-filipino-group-cultural-dance-troupe/
Tinikling Philippines folk dance 2025
Participant from aged 14 to 18 learned the one of the national folk dance of the Philippines, the Tinikling. This is a traditional Filipino dance that mimics the movement of the tikling birds as they dodge bamboo traps set by rice farmers. Dancers skillfully step between and over bamboo poles, creating a lively and rhythmic performance that is both fun and challenging.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2025/04/21/tinikling-dance-workshop-kids-teens/
Singing Pilipinas workshops 2024
Blending traditional Philippine folk dances with modern interpretation. This inspired the formation of the Yorkshire Filipino Group (YFG) Cultural Dance Troupe, dedicated to celebrating and promoting Filipino heritage through dance.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2024/04/29/creative-hearts-united-supports-yorkshire-filipino-groups-in-cultural-dance-rehearsal/
Cheshire East Barrio Fiesta 2026
The Yorkshire Filipino Group (YFG) Cultural Dance Troupe completed its 2026 summer tour at Cheshire East Barrio Fiesta on 25 July 2026. The event at Queens Park, Crewe marked the troupe’s third consecutive performance at this celebration of Filipino culture. The troupe showcased Philippine heritage through traditional folk dances. Volunteers, participants, and community groups united to preserve Filipino traditions in the UK.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2026/07/28/cheshire-east-barrio-fiesta-2026/
Bradford Barrio Fiesta 2026
The Yorkshire Filipino Group (YFG) Cultural Dance Troupe delivered a memorable performance at the Bradford Filipino Barrio Fiesta. The troupe showcased traditional Filipino folk dances and celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines. This performance also launched the troupe’s 2026 summer cultural tour.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2026/07/06/bradford-barrio-fiesta/
Ryde Illuminated Carnival 2025
Known as one of the UK’s most spectacular and historic carnivals, the Ryde Illuminated Carnival held on the Isle of Wight, lit up the streets with dazzling lights, music, and cultural showcases. We were invited to take part in the procession as part of the Beach of Dreams project by Equals IW through Asian Global UK. The combined efforts of all the contingents brought a vibrant Filipino flair to the parade and the entire delegation proudly celebrated winning 1st prize in the parade competition.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2025/09/03/ryde-illuminated-carnival-2025/
Tinikling Takes the Spotlight at Barrio Fiesta in Crewe 2025
Crewe came alive with rhythm, laughter, and cultural pride as the YFG Teens delivered a captivating performance of Tinikling, the national folk dance of the Philippines. One of the most heartwarming highlights came after the performance, when members of the audience were invited to step up and try Tinikling for themselves.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2025/07/31/tinikling-folk-dance-uk/
Cheshire East Barrio Fiesta 2025
the Cheshire East Filipino Community’s barrio fiesta witnessed a spectacular celebration of Filipino heritage, as the Yorkshire Filipino Group (YFG) Cultural Dance Troupe brought to life Pintados, a bold and dramatic dance inspired by the tattooed warrior tribes of the Visayas. The piece, a creative imagining of an encounter between the fierce Pintados and the noble Maharlikans of Luzon, offered a riveting blend of tradition, storytelling, and movement that left audiences inspired and moved.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2025/07/31/bringing-pre-colonial-philippines-to-life-yfg-cultural-dance-troupe-performs-pintados-at-cheshire-east-barrio-fiesta/
London Barrio Fiesta 2025
The 2025 summer tour kicked off in spectacular fashion for the Yorkshire Filipino Group (YFG) Cultural Dance Troupe, as they lit up the stage at the 41st Barrio Fiesta sa London’s All-Star Artists Showcase with a show-stopping rendition of this year’s featured cultural piece, Pintados.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2025/07/23/london-barrio-fiesta-2025/
The First Cheshire East Barrio Fiesta 2024
Queens Park in Crewe came alive with vibrant colours, music, and cultural celebrations as the Cheshire East Filipino Community hosted its inaugural Barrio Fiesta. Creative Hearts United played a key role in supporting the event, helping to create a successful celebration of Filipino heritage and community spirit. One of the highlights of the event was the mesmerising performance by the Yorkshire Filipino Group (YFG) Cultural Dance Troupe. Their graceful movements and colourful costumes brought a piece of Filipino culture to life right in the heart of Crewe.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2024/07/30/celebrating-filipino-culture-at-the-cheshire-east-barrio-fiesta/
The 40th Barrio Fiesta sa London 2024
The 40th Barrio Fiesta sa London 2024 was a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture, and this year, the YFG Cultural Dance Troupe made a notable impact. Invited by Asian Global UK to support their beauty pageants, the troupe participated in the cultural parade and competition, showcasing their passion and talent in the performing arts which earned them a well-deserved 3rd Place in the cultural dance competition.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2024/07/24/london-barrio-fiesta/
YFG Dance Troupe’s First Barrio Fiesta Performance 2024
The Bradford Barrio Fiesta (Town Festival) on 1 June 2024 marked an important achievement for the Yorkshire Filipino Group (YFG) Cultural Dance Troupe as they took to the stage for their first Barrio Fiesta performance. Held at Ladyhill Park in Allerton, Bradford, the annual festival celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines through vibrant performances, food, and community activities. YFG, alongside Creative Hearts United, was proud to be part of this memorable event, strengthening cultural awareness and community connections through the art of dance.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2024/06/03/creative-hearts-united-joined-the-bradford-barrio-fiesta-2024/
Ryde Illuminated Carnival 2023
The Dinagyang Dance Tribe from West Yorkshire brought a vibrant display of Filipino culture to the Ryde Illuminated Carnival 2023 on the Isle of Wight. Through an invitation from Asian Global UK and Equal IW, the group joined the Sinulog Tribe and Asian Global UK beauty pageant candidates in a colourful and captivating carnival procession. Their outstanding performance, energy, and creativity earned them two prestigious accolades: the Jacob Challenge Cup for Best Floral Costume Entry 2023 and Second Place in the Spirit of the Carnival Award 2023.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2023/09/02/ryde-illuminated-carnival-2023/
British-Filipino students from St. Benedict’s Sixth Form in Bradford
We supported British-Filipino A-Level students from St. Benedict’s Sixth Form in Bradford during their Cultural Day, where the group proudly showcases Filipino heritage through a lively Tinikling performance. Through initiatives like these, the charity promotes Philippine art, culture, and heritage to wider British audiences while inspiring the next generation.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2026/04/04/filipino-pride-shines-at-st-benedicts-sixth-form/
Leeds University Filipino Society
Leeds University Filipino Society (LuFilSoc) marked a vibrant new chapter at its 2025 handover party on 9 May, celebrating outgoing officers and welcoming the incoming team. The event honoured past leadership, highlighted fresh energy within Filipino student life at the University of Leeds, and featured a commemorative cake from Creative Hearts United through past officer Ms. Erin Chu, a gesture that reflected the strong ties between Filipino organisations in Leeds and their shared commitment to Filipino culture, heritage, and community spirit.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2025/05/09/lufilsoc/
British-Filipino students of Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College in Leeds
The group approached Creative Hearts United with a vision to reimagine the traditional Tinikling dance in a modern way, and we were thrilled to support them. From providing bamboo props to securing a safe rehearsal space and refreshments, our trustees ensured these young performers had everything they needed to shine.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2024/11/23/triumphant-cultural-showcase-at-notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college/
NJr Drums & Lyre Corps Collaboration
Supporting UK’s first Filipino drum and lyre group, the NJR Drum and Lyre Corps, we participated in a joint rehearsal held at Lister Park, Bradford, on May 2024. The energetic gathering combined the rhythmic sounds of the drum and lyre ensemble with vibrant cultural dance performances, helping both groups refine their presentations ahead of the Bradford Barrio Fiesta Filipino Festival. The event demonstrated the power of collaboration in promoting Filipino arts, culture, and community engagement.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2024/05/20/joint-efforts-of-yorkshire-filipino-group-and-filipino-community-bradfords-njr-drum-and-lyre-group/
Cheshire East Filipino Community Partnership
In a significant step towards bolstering Filipino community development and promotion of Philippine arts and culture, Mr Ronald Chu of Creative Hearts United and Mrs Pauline Petoral Tinsley, representing the Cheshire East Filipino Community, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on 26 February 2024. This milestone agreement marks the beginning of a collaborative effort aimed at achieving common goals within the Filipino community.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2024/02/26/creative-hearts-united-and-cheshire-east-filipino-community-forge-partnership/
The Renalytes (Filipino Renal Nurses in Leeds) Partnership
A dedicated group of Filipino nurses from the Renal Department in Leeds gathered for their annual Christmas party, a cherished tradition spanning more than a decade and symbolising unity, joy, and cultural pride for the Renalytes. Creative Hearts United has been a steadfast supporter throughout the years, contributing ideas and joining the planning to help make each celebration memorable. Their continued involvement reflects a shared commitment to community spirit and cultural enrichment.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2025/12/10/nhs-filipino-renal-nurses-in-leeds/
Hope Leeds Community Church Summer Camp 2026
Creative Hearts United was delighted to support the Hope Leeds Community Church Summer Camp 2026 at Lenchwood Christian Centre, Evesham, on 2 August. The annual gathering celebrated faith, fellowship, and Filipino culture through a lively Barrio Fiesta – themed folk dance competition. We lent costumes to one of the competing teams, who proudly secured three placements in the event.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2026/08/04/hope-leeds-community-church-2/
YFG Dance Troupe’s Picnic at East End Park
A picnic was facilitated by Creative Hearts United, bringing together some of the members of YFG Cultural Dance Troupe. The group will be starting this summer’s Philippine Cultural Dance Project, where they will take on one of the many vibrant folk dances that make up the rich tapestry of Philippine cultural heritage.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2026/05/25/pancit-at-the-yfg-dance-troup-picnic/
Neolife Gala Night 2025
We proudly took part in the Neolife Gala Night 2025, held at the Aria Suite on 20 December 2025. This annual event brought together partners and community groups for an evening of celebration, where YFG Dance Troupe performed a short dance number that added colour and cultural flair to the programme.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2025/12/22/yorkshire-filipino-group-at-the-neolife-gala-night-2025/
Renalytes Celebrate Their 14th Christmas Party
The Renalytes joyfully marked their 14th Christmas Party on 6 December at Edmund House, East End Park, Leeds. Formed in 2011, the Renalytes are a dedicated group of British-Filipino renal nurses serving in the NHS. Christmas has always been the perfect time of year for them to gather with their families, reconnect, and celebrate the bonds strengthened by years of shared work, friendship, and community.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2025/12/10/nhs-filipino-renal-nurses-in-leeds/
2025 Asian Global UK Pageant
The Filipino community in Yorkshire celebrates a remarkable achievement as Ms. Joeace Kristine Ang-Siao was crowned Grand Prize Winner of the 2025 Asian Global UK at the prestigious coronation night held at the Millennium Hotel and Conference Centre, Gloucester, London.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2025/10/29/ms-joeace-kristine-ang-siao-crowned-grand-winner-of-the-2025-asian-global-uk-pageant/
Hope Leeds Community Church Fundraiser
Yorkshire Filipino Group (YFG) participated in a lively fundraising event at Temple Newsam Park in support of Hope Leeds Community Church’s building fund. Bringing joy and energy, YFG members led an entertaining mob dance that got the crowd moving and added to the festive atmosphere.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2025/07/07/hope-leeds-community-church/
Asian Global UK Pageant Good Luck Party
The doors of Neolife’s Saladmaster Office opened to welcome a stream of vibrant energy and smiling faces, all for one remarkable woman: Ms Joeace Kristine Ang-Siao. As she steps boldly into an exciting new chapter, her community made sure the transition was filled with warmth, joy, and heart. She will represented Leeds for the 2025 Asian Global UK crown.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2025/07/17/neolife-health-system-ltd/
Cheshire East Filipino Community Picnic at the Park
We joined a vibrant Picnic in the Park at Queens Park, Crewe, hosted by the Cheshire East Filipino Community. The day was filled with thoughtful moments, a community meeting, a joyful birthday celebration, and a heartfelt Family Day that welcomed children, parents, and friends alike. Whether sharing homemade dishes or simply relaxing under the sun, everyone left with smiles and stories to treasure.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2025/05/03/celebrating-unity-and-culture-picnic-at-the-park/
Neolife Thanksgiving Gala 2024
We were delighted to attend the Neolife Health System Annual Thanksgiving Gala Night 2024 on 21 December at the elegant Egan Suite, Leeds. Hosted by Neolife Health System, the evening was filled with celebration and community spirit. A special Christmas performance by our YFG Dance Troupe added a festive touch and was warmly received by everyone in attendance.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2024/12/22/festive-cheers-at-neolife-thanksgiving-gala-night-2024/
YFG Christmas Party 2024
On the evening of December 13th, the Yorkshire Filipino Group (YFG) and Creative Hearts United came together to host the much-anticipated 2nd YFG Christmas Party at East End Park Working Men’s Club. This vibrant gathering exemplified the spirit of unity and generosity, creating an event truly for the community and by the community.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2024/12/15/yfg-christmas-party-2024-a-celebration-of-community-spirit/
Nurturing Leeds’ British-Filipino Young Talents
We demonstrated its unwavering support for British-Filipino young adults pursuing their musical dreams by inviting a talented group to perform at Emma’s 50th Birthday at East End Park Working Men’s Club. This gig brought together the MSM band, comprised of Abigail , Nathan Ignacio, Nathan Valdez, and Migo Bagaan, the Veraque sisters, Roxanne Veraque and Raine Veraque, and the CHU band, which included Erin Chu, Raeanne Chu, Abigail Gela, and Ronald Chu. This event highlighted the musical diversity and passion within the British-Filipino youth in the Leeds community.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2024/10/14/nurturing-british-filipino-young-talents/
Renalytes’ Festive Celebration 2023
The spirit of Christmas came alive at the Edmund House Club as the Renalytes, a group of dedicated Filipino nurses working in the Renal department in Leeds, gathered for their annual Christmas party. This cherished tradition, spanning more than a decade, has become a symbol of unity, joy, and cultural celebration for the Renalytes.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2023/12/10/renalytes-festive-celebration-a-decade-of-christmas-joy-at-edmund-house-club/
YFG Christmas Party 2023
We proudly facilitated and supported the Yorkshire Filipino Group’s Christmas Party at the Edmund House Club. Our dedicated trustees worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this festive event, showcasing our commitment to the talented dance performers known as the Yorkshire Filipino Group.
Read more at https://creativeheartsunited.org.uk/2023/12/04/creative-hearts-united-celebrates-the-success-of-yorkshire-filipino-groups-christmas-party/