When we think of youth, we often categorize them with the “too cool for school” Millennials, or the “internet enslaved” Gen Z. But what if they band together to create something bigger than themselves and create meaningful ripples of change in our country? Today we give the spotlight to one youth-led organization that sets history with the Philippines first 24-hour online conference all in the comforts of their home (during school time too).
Youth Advocates of the Philippines is a pioneering youth-led organization established in the Philippines. It is a one of a kind youth-led organization that pursues socio-civic involvement of their fellow youths and students by creating lifetime initiatives throughout the Philippines. Last August 12, 2020, the official International Youth Day, they held the first-ever 24-hour online conference with a concert to end the celebration from all over the country advocating for various and timely advocacies. They even had local musicians providing entertainment while promoting the local scene.
But why 24 hours? It was noted by the Vice-President of Youth Advocates of the Philippines, Reynard Francisco, that “it was 24 hours to highlight, stress out, that August 12 is the day of the youth in the Philippines and the world.” With the theme, Archipelago Rising, it aims to present and spread awareness to the 11 advocacies that are relevant and necessary to address the improvement of our society today (to read more on Archipelago: https://youthadvocateph.org/archipelago/). These advocacies range from Arts, Sciences, Environmental Action, Poverty Alleviation, Inclusivity, Public Health, Education, Livelihood, Social Responsibility, etc. Within 24 hours, all of these pillars were tackled and presented for the youth to be educated and inspire them to advocate and take action for what they believe in.
With the help of some advocates and role models of our country, to name a few, Catriona Gray, Vice President Leni Robredo, Senator Kiko Pangilinan, Atty. Chel Diokno, Samira Gutoc, and more, YAP was able to give a night worth remembering and even sparking a Eureka moment for some youths present at the event. From the words of Mirus Ponon, the Founder of President of Youth Advocates of the Philippines, “be the change you want to see,” it stresses out the importance of the world’s youth and that no matter how insignificant they may seem to the world today, they always have the opportunity to change the world in their small different ways.
ADVT.
