On July 14, 2024, Eastwood Central Plaza became a vibrant hub of hope, energy, and inspiration as students, educators, and leaders from various sectors gathered for Youth WAVE 2024. We proudly brought together youth from our Community Development Program (CDP) Areas in Tingloy, Batangas, Prieto Diaz, Sorsogon, Guiuan, Eastern Samar, and other areas in Luzon. The event wasn’t just a celebration—it was a powerful call to action, urging Filipino youth to embrace their potential and lead the way toward a brighter, more inclusive future.

With the theme, “Together for the Future: Education Opportunities for Filipino Youth,” the event highlighted education’s role in transforming lives and communities. Education offers more than just learning. It can also empower the young, start conversations, and spark creativity. Youth WAVE served as  a platform to connect, share dreams, and inspire sustainable solutions for the challenges we face today.

Students from various communities arrived with eager hearts, representing their schools and their dreams. They were joined by representatives from government, non-government organizations, youth-led groups, the private sector, and communities across the Philippines, all united by one vision: a future built through education.

Youth WAVE 2024 was packed with fun booth activities. There were free face painting, cotton candy, photo and 360 video booths. As the day progressed, the atmosphere shifted when the program kicked off. Host and Good Neighbors Philippines Ambassador Robi Domingo entered the stage with radiant passion, hyping the crowd for the Festival of Talents.

The journey of the finalists for the Festival of Talents started late last year when the competing teams went through the elimination rounds from November to December to earn a spot in the final competition. Each of the three finalists delivered powerful performances that celebrated their rich culture and told meaningful stories of struggle and triumph. Their creativity and depth were showcased through a wide range of talents—from dancing and singing to painting and more.

After the exciting performances, the event transitioned into an insightful panel discussion featuring youth panelists Jhon Ross, Kaila, Lawrence, and Aiza. They were joined by key panelist Ms. Solvie Nubla-Lee from Pathways to Higher Education and moderated by Robi Domingo. The panel focused on the existing barriers to quality education, the importance of educational opportunities for Filipino youth, and how we, as a community, can play a role in making good change happen.

As a special treat, the Taytay Philharmonic Orchestra performed two musical pieces, beautifully showcasing the rich culture of the Philippines, adding another wave of inspiration to the event.

As the event drew to a close, the winners of the Festival of Talents were announced:

What stood out most throughout the day was the strong belief in the power of the youth to make a difference. The Filipino youth is  resilient and creative. In the face of limited resources and economic hardships, they remain determined in their pursuit of education and personal growth. With the right support and opportunities, there is no limit to what they can achieve.

This is the FINAL WAVE, carrying the transformative power of education to shape a better future. As we reflect on the impact of Youth WAVE 2024, let’s renew our commitment to providing educational opportunities that empower young people. 

Through the Youth WAVE 2024, we are being called to stand behind the youth. Let’s build a world where passions are  nurtured, and education is accessible to all. We can create a future where young forward-thinking leaders can emerge.

The future depends on the actions we take today. Let’s support our youth, champion their education, and create waves of change that will ripple through generations. Go out there, lead the way, and together, let’s build a brighter tomorrow.