Part two
Mark Lozano
21, 4th year BS Applied Economics, De La Salle University (DLSU); founder, One Million
Lights Philippines
Tell us more about what you do.
As country head of One Million Lights, I’m responsible for making sure that we are moving in the right direction, and that all the elements, from resource mobilization to resource deployment, follow through without any glitches.
More specifically, I concentrate on making strategic partnerships with donors, technology partners, and local organizations. I also like seeing projects through, such as the different light distributions
around the country.
Why is it important?
It’s hard to imagine that a big chunk of our population doesn’t have access to something as basic as light… I realized that I have the opportunity to improve lives, so now it has, in a way, become my responsibility.
What made you want to venture into something like this?
At 16 years old I attended a youth conference in which I realized that people my age were doing amazing things—from improving access to water in remote areas to doing good research. I realized that age
wasn’t really an inhibiting factor in making a difference or pursuing passions. I was inspired
by young people around me, and decided that I could do the same.
What do you think is the future of learning?
I think there will be more opportunities for learning. The classroom will always be there, but I believe that access to the Internet and new apps will allow a wider distribution of knowledge that would give people more opportunities.
You learn best when…
You are motivated by passion while venturing into new waters.
What is your dream for the Filipino student?
To have every opportunity to learn and access knowledge within reach.
Why should young people be more involved in community building and helping others reach their potential?
It allows them to learn more about the world and about themselves. Being involved in such initiatives often means getting out of their comfort zone, testing new things and seeing what works. Many young people today are so focused with school that they forget learning is not limited to the classroom. In my experience, the best lessons are often taught outside of it.
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