Inventing Anna

This is the title of the critically acclaimed American drama television miniseries inspired by the story of Anna Delvey. For those who have not watched this limited drama series, the Shonda Rhimes’ created series tells the story of Ms. Delvey, “the Instagram-legendary German heiress who stole the hearts of New York's social scene — and stole their money as well.” A journalist named Vivan Kent, portrayed by Anna Chlumsky, is another interesting character in the series. Ms. Vivian assiduously probed into Anna’s interesting personality as New York's biggest con woman, which led to the latter’s conviction for grand larceny. Julia Garner plays the role of the charismatic yet fake heiress Anna Delvey in this miniseries, which earned her a nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a miniseries during the 2022 Primetime Emmy Awards.

There is a Korean telenovela entitled “Anna” which was released in 2022, with beautiful actress Bae Suzy playing the lead role. Suzy would later receive critical acclaim for her performance in this miniseries, and was nominated during the APAN Star Awards for Top Excellence Award by an Actress in an OTT Drama. Notably, both Julia Garner and Bae Suzy received positive reviews for portraying “Anna.” Even Keira Knightley, who portrayed the famous character Anna Karenina in the 2012 movie adaptation of the classic novel, was nominated for Best Actress in the 2013 European Film Awards. It seems that portraying Anna always results to being accorded critical acclaim.

Manila Rotarians, for their part, have also given their unequivocal and most positive review for Anna Kun Toledo – for her role as RCM’s ES Anna. Indeed, in the RCM band of brothers, the name Anna has become synonymous with the quiet efficiency of the Club’s backroom support group, and has become unalterably associated with the dependable executive secretary who outstandingly possesses institutional memory of the RCM’s recent history, as well as the provider of the context, rationale and back story of official Club decisions made during the past three decades. Most importantly, the name Anna has become equivalent to the sincere regard for the welfare of the First Rotary Club in Asia. The equivalent Tagalog words for “Anna” are sipag and malasakit.

For 29 years, the Rotary Club of Manila’s administrative concerns have been adroitly handled by a group led by ES Anna. The directors and officers of the Club have all witnessed the brand of work of the self-effacing and industrious Executive Secretary who immersed herself in a true “service above self” fashion.

To our dear ES Anna, RCM will definitely be unable to invent another you. From the bottom of all our hearts, we thank you for your dedicated and loving service to the Club. May God be with you always, as you embark on a new exciting chapter in your life.