CEU Optometry Student Completed ASEAN Young Leaders Programme 2021

Centro Escolar University School of Optometry student, Elaine Marie Salem   successfully completed the ASEAN Young Leaders Programme 2021 (AYLP) spearheaded by the Common Purpose Asia Pacific with this year’s challenge, How can ASEAN’s young leaders build a future ready and resilient ASEAN community?”.

“I must say I was in cloud nine during those four days of the programme, for growth was fostered within each one of us. The opportunity didn’t stop as it is, I was able to build connections and networks with my ASEAN family. We stayed connected through social media, and finally able to come up with initiatives to address the challenge of acting together for the greater good of the community, particularly in the ASEAN region.

The camaraderie built among us as true ASEAN members by heart has become integral element to drive us young leaders to help our leaders build a future-ready and resilient community for the country, and with tiny bright steps, also to the world. It is worth mentioning that Centro Escolar University became the instrument to lead me to a global perspective - the significant awakening and highlight of my year,” said Elaine Marie.

During the program, Elaine and her fellow participants were able to step up their advocacies for the seven sub-themes provided, namely, environment, future of workplace, digital economy, employability and skills (workforce), mental well-being, inclusive society, and entrepreneurship, and they were given a chance to interact with one another and propose their plans with the aid of a consultant.

Launched in 2018, the Common Purpose - AYLP is a leadership development programme that brings together young leaders within ages 18-25 years from across the ASEAN region and all walks of life into a common platform. It aims to equip them with the networks and cultural intelligence needed to work across different cultures.

Due to the prevailing pandemic, the programme was conducted fully online.

Presently, Elaine is on her third year and was elected Secretary of the Optometry Student Council.

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