Laura Linga
Joined Meer in October 2022
Laura Linga

I’m a global communicator and storyteller fascinated by the narratives that connect us, from local communities in The Hague to the vast Filipino diaspora worldwide.

Originally from the Philippines, I believe that empathy and curiosity are the keys to understanding the world, and I dedicate my work to finding the heart in every conversation. This guiding philosophy, coupled with a background in journalism and international relations, provides the solid foundation for a career focused on media, advocacy, and cross-cultural communication. My path has always been about movement and learning, treating every country, city, and conversation as a new chapter in a larger, unfolding global story.

My passion for travel constantly feeds my belief in compelling, compassionate storytelling. I’ve been fortunate enough to journey through more than 30 countries in the world and am still counting. These experiences are much more than just stamps in a passport; they are essential sources of inspiration that fuel my writing and shape my global perspective.

I love discovering new cultures, tasting new foods, and exploring new languages. This personal quest gives me a rich pool of insights and observations to draw upon, allowing me to share a narrative with readers that is genuinely authentic and well-rounded. My travels are often guided by a desire to find a beautiful and poetic aesthetic I can admire and one day share with the world through my work. The textures of ancient cities, the colors of local markets, and the rhythm of unfamiliar languages all come together into the compelling narratives I strive to create.

My journey is built on diverse experiences across continents and platforms: Global Affairs & Advocacy: My passion for global communication and advocacy ignited during a rewarding three-year stint in Morocco, working with nonprofit organizations in Africa. This extended experience gave me a firsthand understanding of complex global systems and the huge power of effective, strategic communication within the nonprofit sector. This time has greatly shaped my career and continues to power my dedication to making a difference through communications that inform and inspire action. I am also passionate about social justice; this principle supports all my advocacy work, making sure my projects highlight fairness, inclusion, and positive social change.

Media & Community: Now based in The Hague, I focus on local and diaspora narratives. I contribute my time as a Communications Associate & Community Liaison for the Volunteer The Hague project of PEP Den Haag. I write news and newsletter articles for the organization's website, manage their social media presence, and host events designed to encourage community involvement.

I co-host and research for Den Haag FM's Dutchbuzz, the English-language radio program dedicated to the city's international residents. I also assist with their social media presence, making sure the program remains a leading resource for the international community.

I also volunteer my time as a co-host for the annual International Film Festival The Hague! This allows me to combine my passion for understanding creative arts and media with community involvement, introducing audiences to diverse global cinema.

Cultural Writing & Teaching: As a Contributing Writer for Discover Philippines, I share the rich and diverse stories of Filipino culture, language, and food. This work is personal, reflecting my heritage and my desire to share it with a global audience. I also run my own project, Kwento Corner (on Substack), to connect the Filipino diaspora in the Netherlands through news, views, fun facts, and cross-cultural stories.

Furthermore, I am a certified English as a Second Language (ESL) tutor, and I use my skills to help with learning and cultural exchange, which I see as another essential form of communication and connection.

Language is not just a tool for communication; it represents information and understanding. This principle drives my commitment to international understanding. I speak English, Filipino, and French, and I’m currently learning Dutch!

Award Nomination: I’m humbled by the recent nomination for my article, "Your Guide to Tagalog Travel Phrases," for the Migration Advocacy and Media (MAM) Awards. This recognition holds immense meaning, as the award, established by the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO), specifically recognizes the media's role in promoting a positive image of Filipinos worldwide.

I initially wrote the nominated piece as a sample for a job application that didn't work out. Despite the temporary disappointment, this experience taught me a valuable lesson that I now live by: you are never denied, only redirected. It's a story I love to tell because it's a testament to the power of resilience and a positive outlook.

Articles by Laura Linga

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