Jamal R. Pandapatan
Meet Jamal, one of our youth leaders who trained in our Empowering Young Leaders (EYL) Program.
“EYL helped me grow as a person and as an advocate. From a non-believer of the Bangsamoro, I am now a proud Bangsamoro. Our learning sessions — lectures and discussions about Bangsamoro identity, history and other topics — have taught me to embrace my identity as a Bangsamoro. Seeing the parliamentarians discuss and debate in the parliament sessions, and also visiting the BARMM offices in person and understanding how they function inspired me so much, made me envision hope in our autonomy.”
“As a youth, I used to think I am not Bangsamoro. I was always eager to debate with my friends about this,” says Jamal. At that time he believed that, as a citizen living in the Philippines, one should consider himself as Filipino but not Bangsamoro. This belief stemmed from his worry that even if given greater autonomy, the Bangsamoro might fail in the end. However, he is now witnessing the signs of triumph in future as he becomes more and more part of the Bangsamoro.
“Through the EYL, we got to meet different ministers and parliamentarians. One of the greatest things remembered came from one Member of the Parliament who advised us to always study and strive hard. As student leaders, we have to be students first and eager learn so then we can become leaders.”
“Do not underestimate the power of young minds, they have something in there that can change the world.”
Asked to give a message to his fellow advocates, Jamal replies: “Continue to strive harder and continue to empower other individuals. People like you are rare in these times, and should be treasured because of your good intentions. Motivate yourself even in times of blue and always have the courage to speak out when needed. Be more of a leader who speaks for those without power and use your skills to sincerely help the community. “
Reference: Lainisah M. Sumpingan
