Empowering Voices Through Awareness
Maria Imelda Argel: A Journey of Resilience and Advocacy
Discover the inspiring story of Maria Imelda Argel, a retired solicitor and domestic violence survivor, as she shares her journey to empower others and raise awareness about coercive control through her memoir, ‘A Pebble that Floats.’
Inspiring Change
Maria’s story encourages victims to find strength and overcome adversity.
Raising Awareness
Highlighting the importance of recognizing early signs of coercive control.
Imelda Argel
Born and raised in Vigan City in the Philippines, Imelda escaped an abusive marriage and migrated to Australia in the 1980s. Unable to practice law due to her law degree not being recognized, while bringing up a young son as a sole parent, she fought to rebuild a new future and went on to become an award-winning immigration lawyer who received accolades from the President of the Philippines and the Australian government.
As the author of her memoir, A Pebble That Floats, Imelda aims to share her inspiring story, empowering readers to overcome their unique challenges and unlock their inner strength. Imelda single- handedly obtained Australia’s decision to recognize the Philippine Professional Board Examinations as a qualification equivalent to an Australian degree, and she has consistently spearheaded the fight against gender, racial and sexual discrimination.
Imelda is the recipient of multiple awards, including the Philippine Presidential Award, NSW Filipino Australian Women’s Achievement Award, University of the Philippines Alumni Association Award, and Plaques of Recognition from the Legal Management Council of the Philippines. She currently resides in Sydney, Australia with her partner Manny.
For more information, visit her websites at imeldaargel.com.au and www.migrationprecedents.com.au
Achievements & Contributions
Education advocacy
Single-handedly obtained the Australian government recognition of passing the Philippine government national examinations replacing the selective educational institution-based skills assessment for Philippine degree educated visa applicants.
Obtained working visas of countless Philippine educated nurses ensuring their employment next day after arrival in Australia.
Opened up an internship program for overseas educated lawyers and law students in her self-established law firm in Australia.
Media - Radio & Print
Answered questions as a regular guest at the migration talk-back programs on Australian SBS radio
Wrote monthly informative articles on Australian immigration for three community – based newspapers distributed around Australia
Immigration
Served as EVALUATOR of the Continuing Professional Development (CPD), for the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA), a testimony to her high standards of ethics, competence and integrity.
Cultural
As President of the University of the Philippines Alumni Association in Australia, (UPAAA) published 3,000 copies of a Cookbook of Filipino favorite dishes.
Understanding Coercive Control
The Silent Epidemic
Coercive control is a pattern of behavior that strips away autonomy and self-worth, often going unnoticed until it’s too late. It’s crucial to recognize the subtle signs early, such as isolation from friends and family, constant monitoring, and emotional manipulation. By raising awareness, we empower individuals to identify these red flags and seek help before the situation escalates.
Awareness is the first step towards prevention. Educating ourselves and others about coercive control can break the cycle of abuse and provide a lifeline to those trapped in its grasp. Together, we can foster a community that supports victims and champions change, ensuring that no one suffers in silence.