Our story
In the island of Stord, on west coast of Norway, located in the traditional district of Sunnhordland, a group of like-minded individuals have found their common interest in serving the Church through music. The choir, then named Sta.Lucia Choir, was founded in 2011 under the leadership of Elise Desucatan. This initially paved way in integrating new Filipinos into their community, inspiring fellowship amongst the group. In 2016, the group welcomed its Choir Leader, Cyrelle Fylkesnes, who committed her service and guidance, and believed in the potential of the group through the challenges and success. After more than a decade of sharing a unified mission to bridge people from all walks of life through the invisible thread of music, the choir amplified its vision. A realization of its pivotal role and contribution to our community. The choir, formerly known as Sta.Lucia Choir, was then reformed to an organization as FIL-NOR Vennskapsklubben, which was officially registered in 2023, with trusted members of the board. An organization embracing music, tradition, and culture that encourages the Filipino-Norwegian community to foster cooperation and collaboration among groups.
Over the years, the choir has grown and evolved for a purpose - PASSION for music, RESPECT for culture, and SERVICE for community. Music has become an instrument to represent our community’s diversity. FIL-NOR choir performed at various events, invitational concerts in neighboring communities, and an invitational masterclass by the Philippine Embassy of the Philippines in Oslo, Norway under the guidance of the world-renowned Maestro and Philippine Choir group. During the Christmas season, FIL-NOR choir spreads holiday cheers through serenading house to house with traditional Filipino Christmas carols.
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In collaboration with other Filipino groups and organizations in Sunnhordland, FIL-NOR has organized the 125th Philippine Independence Day event in 2023, a cultural event that was well-attended by various counties and respectable diplomatic and political figures.
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The journey of FIL-NOR Vennskapsklubben has been nothing short of amazing, filled with enjoyment, camaraderie, and music. And the best part is, they're just getting started! Stay tuned for more exciting performances and events from this remarkable organization.
Our vision
To help fellow Filipinos to be integrated into our community and find a sanctuary to sing their hearts’ praises. To bring passion into service for the Church and for the Community.
Our mission
We are purpose-driven people, dedicated to serving something beyond ourselves. To empower people to showcase their talents, build personal resilience, create a positive space while upholding the values of integrity, respect, and diversity. A culture that fosters a harmonious collaboration for the greater good of the community.
Our values
Heartitude
We embrace what makes us human. Singing together, sharing delicious feast and merry-making are among the principles of fun. Finding a safe haven to leave our troubles at the door and create meaningful experiences. We want to empower our choir members to achieve serious change in their lives, but without taking ourselves too seriously!
Inclusion
Great achievements are almost always the result of not one, but many. We are a warm and welcoming organisation and we want to be equally welcoming for everyone, regardless of background, characteristics or idiosyncrasies. We want everyone involved in the Choir with “No Name” to feel they belong in our community. We bring our best, let go of egos, and work with empathy and trust to do great things together.
Integrity
Having integrity around our commitments means seizing exciting opportunities. Our best work is tied to authenticity and full transparency. We won’t claim to have more impact than we do. We will work hard and strive for excellence and ensure that the wellbeing of our people is central to all our decisions.