With the aim to promote international understanding and leadership among youths, Asean Youth Organization organized the virtual Asean Youth Leader Forum.
The event takes on the theme of “Youth Leadership Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow” to celebrate acts of courage and determination by aspiring young Asean leaders that have played extraordinary roles in advocating for inclusivity, mental health and women empowerment in the region. The theme is aligned with that of The United Nations Observance of International Women’s Day, “Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow.”
The event was attended by 500 participants aged 15-35 from various professional and academic backgrounds, who have made life-changing contributions to their respective society within the region. Participants were given the opportunity to brainstorm ideas, develop connections, and gain deeper understanding of challenges and issues: inclusivity, mental health, and women empowerment.
The organization selected six young speakers from Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
“What inspired me to be a writer was meeting survivors of violence whose stories were really touching and full of struggle,” said Soe Tjen Marching, senior lecturer at SOAS University of London. “They were really inspiring for me because even after the traumatic events, they remained brave and incredible.”
Asia TV Studios producer Regine Guevara said, “The women’s movement is a constant reminder for all of us, regardless of the generation, the struggle for equality is real and it’s doable, we’re able to do it.”