RAFI convenes youth leaders

CEBU, Philippines - The Aboitiz Leaders of Excellence (ALEx) of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) gathered yesterday youth leaders from the different barangays, schools, and youth groups in Cebu for a 2-day event advocating youth involvement in nation-building.

The congress will end today.

The activity seeks to inspire the youth to engage in developmental services that would contribute to national development and social uplifting.

After lobbying for youth involvement in nation-building, ALEx in partnership with Emergency Pinoy Leaders Congress, will push for a Youth Deceleration, establishing camaraderie and linkage with other youth groups and communities.

The congress will be held at Genesis Valley, Cabangahan, Consolacion town, Cebu.

The 2010 Youth Statistics, released by the National Youth Commission, has revealed that 27.83 million or around 30% of Filipinos are 15 to 30 years old.

This shows that the considerable portion of the population is composed of young dynamic people who need proper guidance and opportunity for them to help the country.

The momentous expression of the youth's power was showcased during the recently concluded 2010 national elections when tens and thousands of young people wished for a truthful leader and genuine change.

This and other growing number of youth-oriented, youth-led and youth-supported groups suggests their high level of social consciousness and vigilance.

 The congress was convened by RAFI through ALEx whose members are graduates of RAFI's Young Minds Academy, Xplore and Kool adventure camp.

 ALEx envisions youth leaders initiating efforts for national change towards nation building through empowering and educating young people as contributors and advocates for social development.

 RAFI, through the Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center, guides and supports ALEx in making the congress possible.

As an architect of change, RAFI aims to elevate other people's lives through comprehensive approaches and practices in community development. (FREEMAN)