Janine Carlos
Umali Kayo!
Umali Kayo!
A game that explores Igorot identity and the culture of ethnic provinces within the Cordillera Administrative Region of Northern Philippines (CAR).
Second-generation immigrant Igorots (SGII) are those who are born in New Zealand with Igorot immigrant parents. In the rise of contemporary culture, it is crucial for Igorot immigrants to preserve their cultural roots and to proudly embrace their Igorot identity as they continue to develop their lives in New Zealand (NZ). There are foregoing Igorot organisations in NZ which mainly consist of first-generation immigrants who are more affiliated with their Igorot ancestry. However, a clear disconnect exists between SGIIs’ and their cultural roots, as they spent the majority of their childhood in New Zealand and not the Philippines. Umali Kayo aims to reconnect and educate young SGIIs in New Zealand about the rich cultural heritage that encapsulates the Cordillera region.
“Umali Kayo" is a Kankanaey phrase that translates to “You are welcome” and is a board game design project. It explores Igorot identity and the culture of ethnic provinces within the Cordillera Administrative Region of Northern Philippines (CAR).This game focuses on the six provinces which compose the Cordillera region; Apayao, Kalinga, Abra, Mountain Province, Ifugao, and Benguet. Players travel through the provinces to gather and trade enough items to obtain illustrated identity cards that explore the traditional art and crafts, foods, and attires of a province in the Cordillera region.
This project intends to use a simplified board game to teach and raise cultural awareness among future generations of young Igorot immigrants to close the generational gap. This game takes the players on a heritage tour around CAR while simulating the traditional trades within the provinces.The game makes learning about the Cordillera region fun and engaging as it encourages players to learn the fundamental differences of what sets these provinces apart. Umali Kayo makes room for forgotten conversations between all generations of Igorots. This game hopes to educate and build a community passionate to preserve and revive the Igorot culture in New Zealand.
