Filipina Olympians Emma Malabuyo and Aleah Finnegan give back to their Filipino roots, offering free basic training at the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines gym in Intramuros, Manila.
Even before their debut at the Olympics, Emma Malabuyo, Aleah Finnegan, and Levi Jung-Ruivivar have always shared a heartfelt dream: to inspire the next generation of young gymnasts in the Philippines.
In an episode of “Blind Landing,” an award-winning independent documentary podcast, Emma revealed her plans to return to the Philippines in August after the Olympics. She hopes to give back by teaching the essential basics of gymnastics to young Filipina gymnasts, driven by her deep desire to nurture and support their dreams.
“That’s part of the reason why I’m going to the Philippines in August: I’m going to choreograph floor routines and teach dance there. But also, just help with the fundamentals and the basics of gymnastics because I think there’s so much talent, and then I'll hopefully in the future get my judging credentials and license so I can also help with judging on that side,” shared Emma in the podcast.
Following her short trip to Manila in early June, Levi’s heart was set on returning to the city. Her deepest wish was to come back and ignite a spark of inspiration in the hearts of young Filipino gymnasts.
“We’re competing in the Philippines in order to connect with the community. We are all Filipinos,” mentioned Levi.
“I think the real purpose is that, of course, we have individual goals, but just like Levi said, shed light on the young athletes that are in the Philippines to be in the position that we are in someday,” added Aleah.
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Now that the Olympics have come to a close, the accomplished gymnasts have chosen to give back to the Philippine community with heartfelt dedication.
Emma and Aleah returned to the Philippines before Levi, and with a spirit of generosity, they offered free basic gymnastics training at the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines gym in Intramuros, Manila.
“Came up with this idea a year ago with @aleahfinn to do a coaching clinic in the Philippines. I'm so grateful that it came to life and excited for the next generation of young Filipina gymnasts,” Emma wrote on Instagram.
“Emma Malabuyo & I had the best time working with the future of gymnastics!” Aleah posted on TikTok.
Meanwhile, Levi has shared the joyful news on her social media, announcing that she is finally coming back to the Philippines.
Will Levi step into the world of coaching next? The excitement is building, and only time will tell!
Emma Malabuyo, Aleah Finnegan, and Levi Jung-Ruivivar have etched their names in history as the first Filipina gymnasts to grace the Olympic stage in 60 years, and their remarkable journey is just beginning.
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